US20200260916A1 - Extendable Jet Assembly and Liquid Circulation System - Google Patents
Extendable Jet Assembly and Liquid Circulation System Download PDFInfo
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- US20200260916A1 US20200260916A1 US16/782,115 US202016782115A US2020260916A1 US 20200260916 A1 US20200260916 A1 US 20200260916A1 US 202016782115 A US202016782115 A US 202016782115A US 2020260916 A1 US2020260916 A1 US 2020260916A1
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- jet
- liquid
- extendable
- housing
- jet assembly
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Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47K—SANITARY EQUIPMENT NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; TOILET ACCESSORIES
- A47K3/00—Baths; Douches; Appurtenances therefor
- A47K3/10—Wave-producers or the like, e.g. with devices for admitting gas, e.g. air, in the bath-water
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H1/00—Apparatus for passive exercising; Vibrating apparatus; Chiropractic devices, e.g. body impacting devices, external devices for briefly extending or aligning unbroken bones
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
- A61H33/0087—Therapeutic baths with agitated or circulated water
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
- A61H33/0095—Arrangements for varying the temperature of the liquid
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
- A61H33/60—Components specifically designed for the therapeutic baths of groups A61H33/00
- A61H33/6005—Special constructive structural details of the bathtub, e.g. of the walls or supporting structure
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
- A61H33/60—Components specifically designed for the therapeutic baths of groups A61H33/00
- A61H33/601—Inlet to the bath
- A61H33/6021—Nozzles
- A61H33/6031—Extendible or retractable
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
- A61H33/60—Components specifically designed for the therapeutic baths of groups A61H33/00
- A61H33/601—Inlet to the bath
- A61H33/6021—Nozzles
- A61H33/6036—Hand-held connected to a supply hose
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
- A61H2033/0037—Arrangement for cleaning the fluid during use
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
- A61H2201/02—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes heated or cooled
- A61H2201/0207—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes heated or cooled heated
Definitions
- Clause 21 The vessel of clause 20, wherein the vessel is a spa.
- Clause 26 The method of any of clauses 23 to 25, further comprising, with the extendable jet in either the extended position or the retracted position, moving the diverter valve to a third position, thereby causing a portion of pressurized liquid produced by the pump to pass through the diverter valve to the jet assembly and a portion of the pressurized liquid produced by the pump to pass through the diverter valve to bypass the jet assembly and return to the pump.
- the jet assembly 10 is configured to extend and/or retract due to liquid pressure or suction in the liquid conduit 20 .
- the pressure can overcome the engagement between the diffuser 46 and the housing 12 , thereby causing the extendable jet 36 to transition from the retracted position to the extended position.
- a suction force is provided through the liquid conduit 20 , the force can cause the inflow tube 44 to disengage from the housing 12 , thereby causing the extendable jet 36 to move from the extended position to the retracted position.
- the housing 12 further includes a retainer 62 .
- the retainer 62 can be, for example, an annular sleeve 64 including a flat seat portion 67 positioned in the proximal end 18 of the housing 12 .
- the retainer 62 can be seated against the sidewall 24 of the housing 12 , such that an outer surface of the retainer 62 contacts an inner surface of the housing sidewall 24 .
- the retainer 62 can include one or more inwardly directed protrusions 66 for engaging portions of the extendable jet 36 to maintain the extendable jet 36 in the extended or retracted position.
- the valve 76 can be a check valve configured to permit liquid flow through the diffuser 46 and/or inflow tube 44 in one direction (e.g., in a distal direction, as shown by arrow A1) and to prevent fluid flow through the diffuser 46 and/or inflow tube 44 in an opposite direction (e.g., in a proximal direction as shown by arrow A2).
- the check valve can include an annular body 78 defining a central opening 80 and a movable member, such as a piston 82 , extending through the body 78 .
- a seal or seat 84 is connected to the piston 82 and is configured to cover the central opening 80 to seal the opening 80 , when the valve 76 is in the closed position.
- valve 76 When the valve 76 is open, the piston 82 extends through the central opening 80 , thereby separating the seal or seat 84 from the central opening 80 to permit liquid to flow through the valve 76 in the distal direction (shown by arrow A1).
- the valve 76 can be configured to automatically open when pressurized liquid from the liquid conduit 20 exerts a sufficient force on the piston 82 and/or seat 84 .
- the valve 76 can be configured to automatically close when a suction force in the liquid conduit 20 is applied to the piston 82 and/or seat 84 .
- the valve 76 may also close in response to fluid pressure exerted on the piston 82 and/or seat 84 from liquid in the liquid-filled container, which can push the seat 84 to the closed position.
- the jet assembly 10 , 110 can be configured to remain in a current position and neither to extend nor retract therefrom. For example, if the jet assembly 10 , 110 is in the retracted position, then moving the actuator knob 236 to the third or middle position causes the jet assembly 10 , 110 to act as a conventional fixed jet, in which the extendable jet 36 , 136 remains engaged within the housing 12 , 112 of the jet assembly 10 .
- the liquid circulation system 210 includes conduits 216 , 218 , 220 , 226 for circulating liquid between the liquid-filled shell 320 and elements of the system 210 , such as the pump 212 .
- the conduits 216 , 218 , 220 , 226 and other elements of the liquid circulation system 210 are disposed in spaces between the cabinet 212 and the shell 320 .
- Electromechanical devices, such as the pump 212 and/or heater, can also be disposed between the shell 320 and the cabinet 312 .
- the shell 320 includes a circular opening 322 sized to receive the housing 12 , 112 of the jet assembly 10 , 110 .
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Epidemiology (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Pain & Pain Management (AREA)
- Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
- Rehabilitation Therapy (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
- Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
- Containers And Packaging Bodies Having A Special Means To Remove Contents (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/805,420, filed Feb. 14, 2019, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
- This disclosure is directed to jet assemblies for use with liquid-filled containers and vessels for providing a stream of pressurized liquid into the container or vessel and, in particular, to a jet configured to transition between a retracted or fixed position and an extended position, in which the liquid stream from the jet can be directed at localized areas of a user's body.
- Recreational and therapeutic liquid-filled containers and vessels, such as spas, pools, bathtubs, baths, hot tubs, roman tubs, whirlpools, and hydrotherapeutic tubs, often include one or more jets or nozzles for expelling a pressurized liquid stream into the container or vessel. The jet(s) can be connected to a liquid circulation system including a suction outlet for drawing fluid from the container into the circulation system, and a pump for producing the stream of pressurized liquid. The jet(s) can have a variety of designs configured to produce different patterns or intensities of water streams. Some jets include adjustable nozzles for changing a direction or intensity of the liquid stream expelled from the jet. Some jets are designed to extend from a sidewall of the container to give greater freedom of movement and directionality for the jet.
- For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,131,212 discloses a spa jet system including an extendable and retractable air/water jet. The jet includes a housing and water ports joined together by a conduit and two-way valve. The two-way valve selectively directs water either through the first water port or through the second water port. The jet also includes a piston slidably disposed within the housing configured to move through the housing to transition the jet between the retracted and extended positions. The piston moves through the housing based on whether the water enters the housing through the first water port or the second water port.
- In operation, when the valve is positioned to direct the water flow through the first water port, the water pressure causes the piston to fully retract into the housing. When the piston is retracted, the jet functions as a conventional fixed jet. When a user turns the valve to provide water flow through the second water port, the pressurized flow fills the housing causing the piston to move through the housing to extend the jet.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,027,450 discloses a jet that extends manually and retracts automatically. The jet includes a flexible hose connected at one end to an outlet conduit and nozzle, and at an opposite end to a fluid source. The hose is received within a bore of the jet and is configured to slide through the bore as the nozzle is extended from the jet. In order to extend the jet, a user grasps the nozzle and pulls it outwardly from the housing, causing the hose to uncoil and slide through the bore. To retract the nozzle, the user releases the nozzle allowing the hose to retract into the bore due to a force of a compression spring.
- There is a need for new jet assemblies for liquid-filled containers and vessels configured to effectively provide concentrated and intensified massaging action for localized areas of a user's body. In particular, in some examples, the jet assembly is extendable and retractable. In an extended position, the device can be used as a handheld massaging device. According to another objective, the invention is directed to a jet assembly including a jet that can be extended and retracted by a 3-way valve. Further, desirably, the jet assembly is easy to install and can be connected to an existing water pump and fluid circulation system.
- According to an aspect of the disclosure, an extendable jet assembly for a liquid-filled container includes a housing configured to be positioned in an opening in a wall of the container. The housing includes a proximal end configured to be connected to a liquid conduit, a distal end connected to the opening in the wall, and a sidewall extending therebetween. The jet assembly also includes an extendable jet at least partially mounted in the housing defining a liquid channel extending between a proximal end and a distal end thereof. The jet includes a valve at least partially disposed in the liquid channel of the jet. When the valve is open, the jet is configured to transition from a retracted position to an extended position. When the valve is closed, the jet is configured to transition from the extended position to the retracted position.
- According to another aspect of the disclosure, a liquid circulation system for a liquid-filled container includes at least one pump configured to produce a pressurized fluid stream through one or more liquid conduits. The system further includes at least one extendable jet assembly in fluid communication with the at least one pump through at least one of the one or more liquid conduits for expelling the pressurized fluid stream into the liquid-filled container. The system further includes at least one diverter valve in fluid communication with the at least one pump and the at least one jet assembly. The at least one diverter valve is transitionable between at least the following positions: a first position, in which a suction force generated by the at least one pump is exerted on the at least one extendable jet assembly through the one or more conduits to cause the at least one jet assembly to be in a retracted position; a second position, in which the stream of pressurized liquid produced by the at least one pump is exerted on the jet assembly through the one or more conduits, wherein the stream of pressurized liquid causes the at least one jet assembly to be in an extended position; and a third position in which a portion of the pressurized liquid stream generated by the at least one pump passes through the jet, and wherein the jet remains in one of the extended position or the retracted position.
- According to another aspect of the disclosure, a vessel includes a container configured to contain a liquid comprising at least one opening in a wall of the container. The vessel also includes the above described liquid circulation system. The at least one extendable jet assembly of the liquid circulation system is mounted within and at least partially extends through the opening of the container, such that pressurized liquid produced by the at least one pump is expelled into the container through the jet assembly.
- According to another aspect of the disclosure, a method of operating an extendable jet assembly of a liquid circulation system includes with an extendable jet of the jet assembly in a retracted position, moving a diverter valve of the liquid circulation system from a first position, in which pressurized liquid produced by a pump of the liquid circulation system bypasses the jet assembly and returns to the pump, to a second position, in which substantially all pressurized liquid passing through the diverter valve passes to the jet assembly. Moving the diverter valve from the first position to the second position causes a diffuser of the extendable jet to disengage from a housing of the jet assembly and to transition from the retracted position to an extended position.
- Examples of the present invention will now be described in the following numbered clauses:
- Clause 1: An extendable jet assembly for a liquid-filled container, comprising: a housing configured to be positioned in an opening in a wall of the container, the housing comprising a proximal end configured to be connected to a liquid conduit, a distal end connected to the opening in the wall, and a sidewall extending therebetween; and an extendable jet at least partially mounted in the housing defining a liquid channel extending between a proximal end and a distal end thereof, the jet comprising a valve at least partially disposed in the liquid channel, wherein, when the valve is open, the jet is configured to transition from a retracted position to an extended position, and when the valve is closed, the jet is configured to transition from the extended position to the retracted position.
- Clause 2: The extendable jet assembly of clause 1, wherein a force applied to the jet in a first direction causes the valve to open and the jet to transition from the retracted position to the extended position, and a force applied to the jet in a second direction causes the valve to close and the jet to transition from the extended position to the retracted position.
- Clause 3: The extendable jet of clause 2, wherein the force in the first direction is provided by a pressurized liquid stream directed to the jet from the liquid conduit, and wherein the force in the second direction comprises a suction force applied to the jet through the liquid conduit.
- Clause 4: The extendable jet of any of clauses 1-3, wherein the valve comprises a check valve which automatically opens when pressurized liquid is present in the liquid channel and automatically closes when a suction force is present in the liquid channel.
- Clause 5: The extendable jet assembly of any of clauses 1-4, wherein the extendable jet comprises a diffuser for expelling liquid from the liquid channel into the container and an inflow tube connected to the diffuser and extending from the diffuser into the liquid conduit.
- Clause 6: The extendable jet of clause 5, wherein, when the jet is in the retracted position, at least a portion of the diffuser is engaged within the housing and, when the jet is in the extended position, at least a portion of the inflow tube engages the housing.
- Clause 7: The extendable jet assembly of clause 5 or clause 6, wherein the valve is connected to a proximal end of the inflow tube.
- Clause 8: The extendable jet assembly of clause 7, wherein liquid from the liquid conduit passes through the valve prior to entering the jet.
- Clause 9: The extendable jet assembly of clause 7 or clause 8, wherein the valve comprises an outer housing configured to engage a retainer connected to the housing of the jet assembly to maintain the jet in the extended position.
- Clause 10: The extendable jet assembly of any of clauses 5-9, wherein the housing comprises a retainer at the proximal end of the housing, configured to engage a portion of the diffuser to retain the jet in the retracted position, and to engage a flange on the elongated tube to retain at least a proximal end of the elongated tube within the housing when the jet is in the extended position.
- Clause 11: The extendable jet assembly of
clause 10, wherein the diffuser of the jet comprises an adapter comprising a radially extending flange, and wherein the retainer of the housing comprises an annular sleeve positioned in the housing comprising at least one radially inwardly directed protrusion extending into the liquid channel configured to engage the flange when the jet is in the retracted position. - Clause 12: The extendable jet assembly of clause 11, wherein the retainer further comprises a wiper seal extending radially inwardly from the sleeve into the liquid channel configured to seal at least a portion of the inflow tube of the jet, as the jet transitions between the retracted position and the extended position.
- Clause 13: The extendable jet assembly of any of clauses 5-12, wherein, in the retracted position, at least a proximal end of the inflow tube of the jet is disposed within the liquid conduit.
- Clause 14: The extendable jet assembly of any of clauses 1-13, wherein the housing further comprises an annular gasket and retaining ring connected between an outer surface of the housing and the wall of the enclosure for mounting the housing within the opening in the wall of the container.
- Clause 15: A liquid circulation system for a liquid-filled container, the system comprising: at least one pump configured to produce a pressurized fluid stream through one or more liquid conduits; at least one extendable jet assembly in fluid communication with the at least one pump through at least one of the one or more liquid conduits for expelling the pressurized fluid stream into the liquid-filled container; and at least one diverter valve in fluid communication with the at least one pump and the at least one jet assembly, wherein the at least one diverter valve is transitionable between at least the following positions: a first position, in which a suction force generated by the at least one pump is exerted on the at least one extendable jet assembly through the one or more conduits to cause the at least one jet assembly to be in a retracted position; a second position, in which the stream of pressurized liquid produced by the at least one pump is exerted on the jet assembly through the one or more conduits, wherein the stream of pressurized liquid causes the at least one jet assembly to be in an extended position; and a third position in which a portion of the pressurized liquid stream generated by the at least one pump passes through the jet, and wherein the jet remains in one of the extended position or the retracted position.
- Clause 16: The liquid circulation system of clause 15, wherein the at least one jet assembly comprises: a housing configured to be positioned in an opening in a wall of the container, the housing comprising a proximal end configured to be connected to the one or more liquid conduits, a distal end connected to the opening in the wall, and a sidewall extending therebetween; and an extendable jet at least partially mounted in the housing defining a liquid channel extending between a proximal end and a distal end thereof, the jet comprising a valve at least partially disposed in the liquid channel, wherein, when the valve is open, the jet assembly is configured to transition from the retracted position to the extended position, and when the valve is closed, the jet is configured to transition from the extended position to the retracted position.
- Clause 17: The liquid circulation system of clause 15 or
clause 16, further comprising at least one suction outlet for drawing fluid from the liquid-filled container to the pump, and wherein the one or more conduits comprising: at least one return conduit connected between the suction outlet and the pump for providing liquid from the liquid-filled container to the pump; at least one supply conduit extending between the pump and the diverter valve; at least one jet conduit extended between the diverter valve and the jet assembly for providing one of a suction force or pressurized liquid to the jet assembly; and at least one discharge conduit connected between the diverter valve and the pump for returning a portion of liquid to the pump which does not pass to the at least one jet assembly. - Clause 18: The liquid circulation system of any of clauses 15-17, further comprising at least one conventional jet in fluid communication with the pump through the one or more conduits for providing pressurized fluid into the liquid-filled container through the conventional jet.
- Clause 19: The liquid circulation system of any of clauses 15-18, wherein the diverter valve comprises an actuator knob configured to allow a user to adjust a rate of flow of liquid supplied to the at least one jet assembly.
- Clause 20: A vessel comprising: a container configured to contain a liquid comprising at least one opening in a wall of the container; and the liquid circulation system of any of clauses 15-19, wherein the at least one extendable jet assembly of the liquid circulation system is mounted within and at least partially extends through the opening of the container, such that pressurized liquid produced by the at least one pump is expelled into the container through the jet assembly.
- Clause 21: The vessel of
clause 20, wherein the vessel is a spa. - Clause 22: The vessel of clause 21, wherein the spa comprises a cabinet comprising a bottom, upwardly projecting sides, and an open top, wherein the container comprises a shell at least partially mounted within the cabinet, and wherein at least portions of the pump, one or more conduits, and diverter valve are disposed within the cabinet, and in fluid communication with liquid contained in the spa shell.
- Clause 23: A method of operating an extendable jet assembly of a liquid circulation system, the method comprising with an extendable jet of the jet assembly in a retracted position, moving a diverter valve of the liquid circulation system from a first position, in which pressurized liquid produced by a pump of the liquid circulation system bypasses the jet assembly and returns to the pump, to a second position, in which substantially all pressurized liquid passing through the diverter valve passes to the jet assembly, wherein moving the diverter valve from the first position to the second position causes a diffuser of the extendable jet to disengage from a housing of the jet assembly and to transition from the retracted position to an extended position.
- Clause 24: The method of clause 23, wherein the housing of the jet assembly is configured to be positioned in an opening in a wall of a spa, the housing comprising a proximal end configured to be connected to a liquid conduit of the liquid circulation system, a distal end connected to the opening in the wall, and a sidewall extending therebetween, wherein the extendable jet of the jet assembly is at least partially mounted in the housing and defines a liquid channel extending between a proximal end and a distal end thereof, the extendable jet comprising a valve at least partially disposed in the liquid channel, and wherein, when the valve is open, the jet is configured to transition from the retracted position to the extended position, and when the valve is closed, the jet is configured to transition from the extended position to the retracted position.
- Clause 25: The method of clause 23 or
clause 24, further comprising, with the extendable jet of the jet assembly in the extended position, moving the diverter valve from the second position to the first position, thereby producing a suction force in a liquid conduit extending between the diverter valve and the jet assembly sufficient to cause the extendable jet to transition from the extended position to the retracted position. - Clause 26: The method of any of clauses 23 to 25, further comprising, with the extendable jet in either the extended position or the retracted position, moving the diverter valve to a third position, thereby causing a portion of pressurized liquid produced by the pump to pass through the diverter valve to the jet assembly and a portion of the pressurized liquid produced by the pump to pass through the diverter valve to bypass the jet assembly and return to the pump.
- Clause 27: The method of
clause 26, wherein moving the diverter valve from the first position to the third position increases an amount of pressurized liquid provided to the jet assembly, thereby increasing a force with which the pressurized liquid is expelled from the jet assembly. - Clause 28: The method of
clause 26, wherein moving the diverter valve from the second position to the third position decrease an amount of pressurized liquid provided to the jet assembly, thereby reducing a force with which the pressurized liquid is expelled from the jet assembly. - These and other features and characteristics of the present invention, as well as the methods of operation and functions of the related elements of structures and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding parts in the various figures. As used in the specification and the claims, the singular form of “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
-
FIG. 1 is a rearwardly directed perspective view of an extendable jet assembly and fluid line mounted to a sidewall of a spa, according to an aspect of the disclosure; -
FIG. 2 is a frontwardly directed perspective view of the jet assembly ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the jet assembly ofFIG. 1 in an extended position; -
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the jet assembly ofFIG. 1 in a partially retracted position; -
FIG. 5 is a rearwardly directed perspective view of another example of an extendable jet assembly and fluid line mounted to a sidewall of a spa, according to an aspect of the disclosure; -
FIG. 6 is a frontwardly directed perspective view of the jet assembly ofFIG. 5 ; -
FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view of the jet assembly ofFIG. 5 in an extended position; -
FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of the jet assembly ofFIG. 5 in a partially retracted position; -
FIG. 7C is a cross-sectional view of the jet assembly ofFIG. 5 in a retracted position; -
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a fluid circulation system including an extendable jet assembly in an extended position, according to an aspect of the disclosure; and -
FIG. 9 is a schematic drawing of a portion of a spa including the fluid circulation system ofFIG. 8 , according to an aspect of the disclosure. - For purposes of the description hereinafter, the terms “upper”, “lower”, “right”, “left”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “top”, “bottom”, “lateral”, “longitudinal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as it is oriented in the drawing figures. The term “proximal” as used herein refers to a portion of an object that is connected to another object or to a portion of the object or element located nearest to an actuating mechanism, such as a pump. For example, a proximal end of the spa jet refers to an end of the jet connected to the spa wall and/or inserted through the spa wall into a space between the spa shell and cabinet. The term “distal” refers to a portion of the object opposite the proximal portion of the object. For example, the “distal” end of a jet or nozzle refers to the portion of the jet or nozzle that extends away from the wall and into the liquid-filled container or vessel. However, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative variations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the invention. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting.
- The present disclosure is directed to jet assemblies for use with liquid-filled containers, enclosures, reservoirs, vessels, or basins. The contemplated “container” is primarily referred to in this description of the invention as a “spa.” As discussed previously, the “container” can also include other water-containing vessels, such as pools, bathtubs, baths, hot tubs, roman tubs, whirlpools, and hydrotherapeutic tubs. The jet assemblies disclosed herein can also be used with other systems and devices for providing a pressurized fluid stream, such as shower heads, steam baths, steamers, facets, sinks, and similar devices. Further, the jet assemblies described herein are generally described as providing a pressurized liquid stream. The jet assemblies disclosed herein may also be configured to provide different fluid streams. For example, the jet assemblies and circulation systems disclosed herein may be adapted to provide a pressurized stream of hot air, steam, water, and combinations thereof.
- With reference to
FIGS. 1-4 , anextendable jet assembly 10 for a liquid-filled container, enclosure, reservoir, basin, or vessel, such as a spa, tub, bath, and/or shower, includes ahousing 12 configured to be positioned in anopening 14 in awall 16 of the container. Thehousing 12 includes aproximal end 18 configured to be connected to aliquid conduit 20, such as a tube or pipe. For example, theliquid conduit 20 can be configured to provide a pressurized liquid stream or flow to thejet assembly 10. Thehousing 12 also includes adistal end 22 extending through theopening 14 of thewall 16 and asidewall 24 extending between theproximal end 18 and thedistal end 22. Thehousing 12 is a generally hollow structure having aninterior space 26 extending between theproximal end 18 and thedistal end 22 thereof. Thehousing 12 can be formed from any sufficiently strong, rigid material configured to withstand temperature and pressure produced by commercially available spas and hot tubs. Thehousing 12 can be any suitable shape sufficient to fit within theopening 14 of thewall 16 and for connecting to theliquid conduit 20. For example, thehousing 12 can be a tapered or conical shape having a wider diameterdistal end 22 and a narrower diameterproximal end 18 configured to correspond to a diameter of theliquid conduit 20. - The
jet assembly 10 also includes connectors or fasteners for mounting thehousing 12 in theopening 14 of thewall 16 to provide a leak-proof seal between thehousing 12 and thewall 16. For example, as shown inFIGS. 3 and 4 , thedistal end 22 of thehousing 12 can include an outwardly flaredportion 28 configured to contact an outer surface of thewall 16. The outwardly flaredportion 28 can be retained against thewall 16 by, for example, agasket 30 and a retainingring 32 positioned on an opposite side of thewall 16 from the flaredportion 28 of thehousing 12. In some examples, thehousing 12 can include a threadedouter surface 34 for installing thegasket 30 and the retainingring 32 against thewall 16 to hold thejet assembly 10 in place against thewall 16. - The
jet assembly 10 also includes anextendable jet 36 at least partially mounted in thehousing 12 and configured to transition from a retracted position (shown inFIG. 2 ), in which at least a portion of theextendable jet 36 is engaged within thehousing 12, to an extended position (shown inFIGS. 1 and 3 ). Theextendable jet 36 defines aliquid channel 38 extending between aproximal end 40 and a distal end 42 thereof for conducting pressurized liquid from theliquid conduit 20 into the container. Theextendable jet 36 can include anelongated inflow tube 44 for providing the pressurized liquid from theliquid conduit 20 and/orhousing 12 into theextendable jet 36. Theinflow tube 44 is generally a narrow tube sized to fit within both thehousing 12 and theliquid conduit 20. For example, theinflow tube 44 can have an outer diameter D1, which is less than an inner diameter D2 of theliquid conduit 20 andhousing 12. A length L1 of theinflow tube 44 generally determines how far theextendable jet 36 can be extended from thejet housing 12. Accordingly, the length L1 can be selected to permit a user to move theextendable jet 36 away from thewall 16 far enough to direct the stream of pressurized liquid to different areas of the user's body for localized massaging and therapy. The length L1 could also be selected based on the size of the liquid-filled container, such as the spa or tub, the number of other jets in the spa or hot tub, or the arrangement of seats in the spa or hot tub. For example, the length L1 can be from about 48 inches to about 60 inches. In some examples, theinflow tube 44 is formed from a flexible material, such as rubber, or a polymer material, such as polyethylene, vinyl, polyvinyl chloride (e.g., flexible PVC), and/or nylon, to provide greater freedom of movement of theextended jet 36. - The
extendable jet 36 also includes adiffuser 46 connected to adistal end 48 of theinflow tube 44 for expelling the pressurized liquid from theextendable jet 36 and into the container. Thediffuser 46 can be a hollow structure having aproximal end 50 connected to theinflow tube 44, a distal end 52 for expelling the liquid stream into the container, and asidewall 54 extending therebetween. Thesidewall 54 of thediffuser 46 is generally shaped to be received within theinterior space 26 of thehousing 12. For example, thesidewall 54 of thediffuser 46 can be tapered and conical to match a slope of thesidewall 24 of thehousing 12. The distal end 52 of thediffuser 46 can include an end plate or cap 56 for imparting different flow characteristics to the liquid stream. For example, thecap 56 can includeholes 58 positioned to direct portions of the pressurized liquid stream in different directions. Passing the liquid stream through theholes 58 can, for example, separate the pressurized liquid stream, so that pressurized liquid is provided over a larger target area with reduced force. - In the retracted position (shown in
FIG. 2 ), thediffuser 46 of theextendable jet 36 engages thehousing 12, causing theextendable jet 36 to function as a conventional fixed jet. As theextendable jet 36 transitions from the retracted position to the extended position, theproximal end 50 of theinflow tube 44 passes through a portion of theliquid conduit 20 and into thehousing 12 of thejet assembly 10. In the extended position (shown inFIG. 3 ), thehousing 12 engages at least a portion of theinflow tube 44 and at least a portion of thediffuser 46 extends from thehousing 12 and into the liquid-filled container. In the extended position,extendable jet 36 can be manipulated in different directions to direct the liquid stream to selected areas of the body. For example, the user can grasp a grippingportion 60 on the outer surface of thesidewall 54 of thediffuser 46. Since theinflow tube 44 is flexible, the user is free to move thediffuser 46 in any direction to adjust directionality of flow from thediffuser 46. - In some examples, the
jet assembly 10 is configured to extend and/or retract due to liquid pressure or suction in theliquid conduit 20. For example, when substantial pressure is present in theliquid conduit 20, the pressure can overcome the engagement between thediffuser 46 and thehousing 12, thereby causing theextendable jet 36 to transition from the retracted position to the extended position. Similarly, when a suction force is provided through theliquid conduit 20, the force can cause theinflow tube 44 to disengage from thehousing 12, thereby causing theextendable jet 36 to move from the extended position to the retracted position. - As shown in
FIGS. 3 and 4 , in some examples, thehousing 12 further includes aretainer 62. Theretainer 62 can be, for example, anannular sleeve 64 including aflat seat portion 67 positioned in theproximal end 18 of thehousing 12. Theretainer 62 can be seated against thesidewall 24 of thehousing 12, such that an outer surface of theretainer 62 contacts an inner surface of thehousing sidewall 24. Theretainer 62 can include one or more inwardly directedprotrusions 66 for engaging portions of theextendable jet 36 to maintain theextendable jet 36 in the extended or retracted position. - For example, the
retainer 62 can be configured to engage a portion of thediffuser 46 to retain theextendable jet 36 in the retracted position and to engage a portion of theinflow tube 44 to retain at least a proximal end of theextendable jet 36 within thehousing 12 when theextendable jet 36 is in the extended position. To facilitate such engagement, theinflow tube 44 of theextendable jet 36 can include aradially extending flange 68 and/orstopper 70 positioned around or adjacent to a proximal end 72 of theinflow tube 44 configured to contact and engage the protrusion(s) 66 of theretainer 62 when theextendable jet 36 is extended. Theflange 68 and/orstopper 70 can also be configured to contact and/or seal against an inner surface of theliquid conduit 20 to stabilize theextendable jet 36, as it transitions between positions. Theflange 68 andstopper 70 can be formed from any suitable material. The material can be flexible, allowing theflange 68 and/orstopper 70 to deform slightly when moving through theliquid conduit 20 or over theprotrusion 66 of theretainer 62. For example, theflange 68 and/orstopper 70 can be formed from an elastomeric material, such as natural rubber, butadiene, polyisoprene, butyl rubber, and/or silicone rubber (e.g., liquid silicone rubber materials). - In some examples, the
diffuser 46 of theextendable jet 36 also includes a locking mechanism or structure configured to be received by and to engage theretainer 62. For example, thediffuser 46 can include a raised protrusion oradapter 74, such as a radially extending flange, collar, ridge, ring, or protrusion, positioned near to theproximal end 50 of thediffuser 46. Theadapter 74 can be configured to engage the correspondingprotrusion 66 of theretainer 62 when theextendable jet 36 is in the retracted position to retain theextendable jet 36 in place. In some examples, the engagement between theadapter 74 andprotrusion 66 is sufficient to maintain theextendable jet 36 in the retracted position when a low level of pressurized liquid is provided through theliquid conduit 20. Theadapter 74 can be configured to be released from theretainer 62 when a force of the pressurized liquid flowing through theliquid conduit 20 exceeds a selected level. Alternatively, a user can manually disconnect thejet 36 from thehousing 12 by gripping thejet 36 and pulling with sufficient force to overcome the engagement between theadapter 74 and thehousing 12. - In some examples, the
extendable jet 36 further includes avalve 76 disposed in theliquid channel 38 of theextendable jet 36 configured to restrict liquid flow through theliquid channel 38. For example, as shown inFIGS. 3 and 4 , thevalve 76 can be positioned in thediffuser 46 of theextendable jet 36 near theproximal end 50 thereof. Thevalve 76 can be configured such that, when thevalve 76 is open, theextendable jet 36 is configured to transition from the retracted position to the extended position. When thevalve 76 is closed, theextendable jet 36 can be configured to transition from the extended position to the retracted position. Thevalve 76 can be a one-way valve, such as a diaphragm valve, which permits liquid flow through thevalve 76 in one direction. Thevalve 76 closes to prevent liquid from flowing through thevalve 76 in the opposite direction. - In some examples, the
valve 76 can be a check valve configured to permit liquid flow through thediffuser 46 and/orinflow tube 44 in one direction (e.g., in a distal direction, as shown by arrow A1) and to prevent fluid flow through thediffuser 46 and/orinflow tube 44 in an opposite direction (e.g., in a proximal direction as shown by arrow A2). The check valve can include anannular body 78 defining acentral opening 80 and a movable member, such as apiston 82, extending through thebody 78. A seal orseat 84 is connected to thepiston 82 and is configured to cover thecentral opening 80 to seal theopening 80, when thevalve 76 is in the closed position. When thevalve 76 is open, thepiston 82 extends through thecentral opening 80, thereby separating the seal orseat 84 from thecentral opening 80 to permit liquid to flow through thevalve 76 in the distal direction (shown by arrow A1). For example, thevalve 76 can be configured to automatically open when pressurized liquid from theliquid conduit 20 exerts a sufficient force on thepiston 82 and/orseat 84. Thevalve 76 can be configured to automatically close when a suction force in theliquid conduit 20 is applied to thepiston 82 and/orseat 84. Thevalve 76 may also close in response to fluid pressure exerted on thepiston 82 and/orseat 84 from liquid in the liquid-filled container, which can push theseat 84 to the closed position. - The
jet assembly 10 can operate in the following manner. Thejet assembly 10 can be initially provided in a retracted position (shown inFIG. 2 ). When a pressurized liquid stream of sufficient force is present in theliquid conduit 20, thevalve 76 moves to an open position. In addition to causing thevalve 76 to open, the pressurized liquid exerts a force against theextendable jet 36 sufficient to overcome the engagement between theextendable jet 36 andhousing 12. Once the engagement between thehousing 12 andjet 36 is overcome, thejet 36 moves from the retracted position to an extended position (shown inFIGS. 1 and 3 ). Thejet assembly 10 is shown between the retracted position and the extended position inFIG. 4 . In the extended position, a user can grip the outer surface of thediffuser 46 and move thediffuser 46 to direct pressurized liquid towards different selected areas of the user's body. In the extended position, as discussed previously, thevalve 76 is open and theinflow tube 44 is engaged to theretainer 62 of thehousing 12 to maintain theextendable jet 36 in the extended position. The engagement between theinflow tube 44 andretainer 62 also prevents the user from pulling theextendable jet 36 entirely out of thehousing 12. - Another example of an
extendable jet assembly 110 is shown inFIGS. 5-7C . As in previous examples, thejet assembly 110 includes thehousing 112 and theextendable jet 136 positioned within and/or mounted to thehousing 112. Thejet 136 includes anelongated inflow tube 144 and adiffuser 146 connected to adistal end 148 of theinflow tube 144 for expelling pressurized liquid from thejet 136 and into a liquid-filled container. Thejet 136 is configured to transition from a retracted position (shown inFIGS. 6 and 7C ), in which at least a portion of thediffuser 146 is engaged within thehousing 112, to an extended position (shown inFIGS. 5 and 7A ), in which thehousing 112 engages at least a portion of theinflow tube 144 and at least a portion of thediffuser 146 extends from thehousing 112 and into the liquid-filled container. - Also, as in previous examples, the
jet assembly 110 includes avalve 176. Thevalve 176 can be a check valve configured to automatically open when pressurized liquid is present in theliquid conduit 120 to permit fluid flow from theliquid conduit 120 through thejet 136 and into the liquid-filled container. Thevalve 176 can be configured to automatically close when a suction force or negative pressure is present in theliquid conduit 120 to prevent liquid from flowing through thevalve 176 in the opposite direction. As shown inFIGS. 7A-7C , unlike in previous examples, thevalve 176 is connected to aproximal end 172 of theinflow tube 144 rather than within thediffuser 146. Thecheck valve 176 includes a body orhousing 186 having adistal end 188 connected to theinflow tube 144 and a free or openproximal end 190. A movable valve member, such as a piston (not shown), is positioned inside the body orhousing 186 of thevalve 176 and configured to move from a closed position, in which liquid flow through thevalve 176 is restricted, to an open position, in which liquid flow through thevalve 176 and thejet 136 from aproximal end 140 to adistal end 142 thereof is permitted. As shown inFIG. 7A , the body orhousing 186 of thevalve 176 is sized to be received by and to engage aretainer 162 positioned in aninterior space 126 of thehousing 112. As discussed above, theretainer 162 can be anannular sleeve 164 positioned such that an outer surface of the sleeve contacts an inner surface of asidewall 124 of thehousing 112. Theannular sleeve 164 can include one or more radially inwardly directedprotrusions 166 extending from an inner surface of thesleeve 164, which engage thevalve housing 186 to maintain thevalve 176 andjet 136 in the extended position (shown inFIG. 7A ). - In some examples, the
retainer 162 can further include awiper seal 192 extending radially inwardly from an inner surface of thesleeve 164. As shown inFIGS. 7A-7C , thewiper seal 192 can be sized to seal an outer surface of theinflow tube 144 to restrict liquid flow from the liquid-filled container into theliquid conduit 120. In order to provide a sufficient seal, thewiper seal 192 can be formed from a flexible and resilient material, such as an elastomeric material, which deforms slightly when theinflow tube 144 passes through thewiper seal 192, thereby providing a suitable seal between thewiper seal 192 and theinflow tube 144. Thewiper seal 192 is desirably sufficiently deformable so that theinflow tube 144 can pass through thewiper seal 192 in either direction. Thewiper seal 192 can be configured to provide self-cleaning for thejet 136 by removing any objects attached to theinflow tube 144 as theinflow tube 144 extends and retracts through thewiper seal 192. - The
jet assembly 110 shown inFIGS. 5-7C functions in a similar manner to previously described examples. For example, thejet assembly 110 can be initially provided in a retracted position, as shown inFIG. 7C . When a pressurized liquid stream is present in theliquid conduit 120, thevalve 176 moves to an open position and, as pressure increases, exerts a force against thejet 136 sufficient to overcome the engagement between thejet 136 and thehousing 112. Once the engagement between thejet 136 and thehousing 112 is overcome, thejet 136 moves from the retracted position (shown inFIG. 7C ) to the extended position (shown inFIG. 7A ). Thejet assembly 110 is shown between the retracted position and the extended position inFIG. 7B . As discussed previously, in the extended position, a user can grip the outer surface of thediffuser 146 and can move thediffuser 146 to direct pressurized liquid towards different selected areas of the user's body. In the extended position, as discussed previously, thevalve 176 is open and theinflow tube 144 is engaged to theretainer 162 of thehousing 112 to maintain thejet 136 in the extended position. - As shown in
FIGS. 8 and 9 , the extendable jet(s) 36, 136 described herein can be used with aliquid circulation system 210, such as a liquid circulation system for a liquid-filled container, such as a spa, hot tub, or bathtub. For example,FIG. 9 shows theliquid circulation system 210 installed in aspa 310. Theliquid circulation system 210 can be an existing liquid circulation system for a spa retrofit to include the extendable jet(s) 36, 136 as described herein. In other examples, a spa and liquid circulation system can be specifically designed to include one or more of the exemplaryextendable jet assemblies - In some examples, the
liquid circulation system 210 includes aliquid circulation pump 212 configured to provide a stream of pressurized liquid to one ormore jet assemblies 10, at least onediverter valve 214 for controlling liquid flow to the one ormore jet assemblies 10, and one ormore conduits - The
system 210 can further include at least one suction port oroutlet 222 extending through a wall of the liquid-filled container for drawing liquid from the container to thepump 212. For example, thesuction outlet 222 can be a hollow opening connected to the pump through theconduits suction outlet 222 can also include anend plate 224 or cover plate for filtering solid objects from the liquid being drawn into theliquid circulation system 210 through theoutlet 222. Thesystem 210 can further include at least one conventional fixed valve (not shown) extending through the wall of the liquid-filled container and in fluid communication with thecirculation pump 210 for providing additional streams of fluid into thespa shell 320. - The one or
more conduits conduit 216 adapted to conduct liquid from the container (e.g., from the spa shell 320) to thepump 212. The one ormore conduits supply conduit 218 in fluid communication with and positioned downstream of thecirculation pump 212 for delivering pressurized liquid from thecirculation pump 210 to thediverter valve 214. The one ormore conduits liquid conduit 20, 120) extending between thejet assembly diverter valve 214, which provides either pressurized liquid from thesupply conduit 218 to thejet assembly return conduit 216 to thejet assembly more conduits discharge conduit 226 connected between thediverter valve 214 and thereturn conduit 216. Thedischarge conduit 226 is configured to divert a portion of the pressurized liquid directed from thepump 212 towards thediverter valve 214 andjet assembly circulation pump 212. Accordingly, thedischarge conduit 226 functions to bypass pressurized liquid from thecirculation pump 212 when thediverter valve 214 is actuated in a less than fully open position, which is useful for providing a lower flow rate of pressurized liquid through thejet assembly - In some examples, the
diverter valve 214 is a three-way valve adapted to change a rate of flow of liquid supplied to thejet assembly jet jet assembly diverter valve 214 can be any suitable three-way, manually operated diverter valve which diverts water between thejet assembly discharge conduit 226 to control liquid flow through thejet assembly diverter valve 214 can include ahollow valve body 228 with aninlet port 230, afirst outlet port 232, and asecond outlet port 234. Theinlet port 230 is in fluid communication with thecirculation pump 212 through thesupply conduit 218, thefirst outlet port 232 is in fluid communication with thejet assembly jet conduit 220, and thesecond outlet port 234 is in fluid communication with thedischarge conduit 226. Thediverter valve 214 further includes a plunger (not shown) disposed within thevalve body 228. The plunger is operatively coupled to a plunger actuation mechanism, which is, in turn, coupled to arotating actuator knob 236. Theactuator knob 236 may be positioned at any convenient location on the liquid-filled container, such as on an upper edge of the container or at any other convenient location, thereby allowing a user to adjust the rate of flow of water supplied to thejet assembly second outlet port 234 and/or a fluid-tight seal between the plunger and thefirst outlet port 232. - The
actuator knob 236 may be adjustable to an infinite number of positions or may have a predetermined number of positions. For example, theknob 236 may have three positions. Theknob 236 can be moved between the three positions by rotating theknob 236 in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. When theactuator knob 236 is in a first or clockwise position, the plunger actuation mechanism forces the plunger into a first position where a fluid-tight seal is created between the o-ring of the plunger and thefirst outlet port 232. In this configuration, none of the liquid passing through theliquid circulation pump 212 passes through thefirst outlet port 232 to thejet conduit 220 andjet assembly liquid circulation pump 212 passes through thesecond outlet port 234 to thedischarge conduit 226. When theactuator knob 236 is in this first or clockwise position, thejet assembly liquid conduit 220 to force thejet FIGS. 3 and 4 ) of theextendable jet 36 or valve 176 (shown inFIGS. 7A-7C ) of theextendable jet 136 is closed. While a user may manually extend theextendable jet jet housing jet knob 236 is in the first or clockwise position. However, thejet jet system 210. - When a user adjusts the
actuator knob 236 of thediverter valve 214 from the first or clockwise position to a second or counterclockwise position, the plunger seals thesecond outlet port 234, thereby forcing all of the liquid passing through theliquid circulation pump 212 andsupply conduit 218 to pass through thefirst outlet port 232 to thejet conduit 220 andjet assembly knob 236 could require the user to rotate theknob 236 by 180 degrees in the counterclockwise direction, which moves theknob 236 from the first or clockwise position to the second or counterclockwise position. In this second or counterclockwise position, the pressurized liquid exerts substantial force on thejet assembly valve extendable jet extendable jet extendable jet extendable jet flange 68 and/or the stopper 70 (shown inFIGS. 3 and 4 ). The substantial force can be sufficient to overcome the engagement between theextendable jet jet assembly housing extendable jet housing 12, 112 (e.g., to transition from the retracted position to the extended position). - The
knob 236 andvalve 214 can be configured such that thejet knob 236 is in one of two positions, namely the first or clockwise position or the second or counterclockwise position. When a user positionsactuator knob 236 in a third position (e.g., for aknob 236 with three separate positions) or in any of the infinite number of positions between the first position and the second position (e.g., for a rotatable knob assembly), the plunger actuation mechanism forces the plunger into a position where neither thefirst outlet port 232 nor thesecond outlet port 234 is sealed. In this configuration, a portion of the liquid provided from thepump 212 through thesupply conduit 218 passes through thefirst outlet port 232 to thejet conduit 220 and through thejet assembly second outlet port 234 to thedischarge conduit 226. When in this third or middle position, thejet assembly jet assembly actuator knob 236 to the third or middle position causes thejet assembly extendable jet housing jet assembly 10. For example, the portion of liquid passing to thejet assembly valve extendable jet extendable jet extendable jet jet assembly housing jet assembly extendable jet actuator knob 236 from the second position to the third position reduces an intensity or force of liquid expelled from theextendable jet actuator knob 236 is in the second position. However, moving theactuator knob 236 to the third position does not cause theextendable jet housing - In some examples, moving the
actuator knob 236 from the second position or from the third position to the first position causes theextendable jet jet housing actuator knob 236 from the second position to the first position begins to close thefirst outlet port 232 and to open thesecond outlet port 234. As thesecond outlet port 234 opens, an increasing portion of the pressurized liquid passing through thediverter valve 214 is diverted to thedischarge conduit 226 and a reduced portion of the pressurized fluid passes through thefirst outlet port 232 into thejet conduit 220. As a result of the reduction in pressurized fluid provided to thejet conduit 220, a liquid pressure in thejet conduit 220 decreases causing thevalve extendable jet second outlet port 234, the pressure in thediverter valve 214 anddischarge conduit 216 exceeds the pressure in thejet conduit 220. It is believed that this pressure difference between thejet conduit 220 anddiverter valve 214 causes fluid in thejet conduit 220 to be drawn back through thejet conduit 220 towards thediverter valve 214 anddischarge conduit 216, thereby creating a Venturi effect or suction force. This created suction force can also be sufficient to cause theextendable jet housing extendable jet housing extendable jet housing FIGS. 1-4 ) or inflow tube 144 (shown inFIGS. 5-7C ) from thehousing - Once in the fully retracted position, the
extendable jet jet assembly housing extendable jet extendable jet actuator knob 236 to the third position, thereby causing thejet assembly - In some examples, the
liquid circulation system 210 further includes a high-flow heater and a flow switch positioned upstream from diverter valve and downstream from the circulation pump. In some examples, the heater and/or flow switch could also be enclosed in a housing of thepump 212. The high-flow heater heats the pressurized liquid from thecirculation pump 212, thereby allowing heated water to be provided to the jet assembly(s) 10, 110. The flow switch can be provided to sense water flow and provide an electrical interlock which shuts down the heater upon loss of flow through thecirculation system 210. An ozone injector (not shown) can also be provided in fluid communication with the flow switch and theliquid circulation system 210. The ozone injector supplies ozone to the liquid for disinfection and cleaning purposes. -
FIG. 9 shows thefluid circulation system 210 installed in thespa 310. Thespa 310 can be a conventional spa or hot tub, as is known in the art, including, for example, acabinet 312 having a bottom 314, upwardly projectingsides 316, and anopen top 318. Thespa 310 also includes a container, such as theshell 320, configured to contain the liquid. As discussed previously, thefluid circulation systems 210 disclosed herein can also be used with other water-containing vessels, such as pools, bathtubs, baths, hot tubs, roman tubs, whirlpools, and hydrotherapeutic tubs. - As shown in
FIG. 9 , theliquid circulation system 210 includesconduits shell 320 and elements of thesystem 210, such as thepump 212. Theconduits liquid circulation system 210 are disposed in spaces between thecabinet 212 and theshell 320. Electromechanical devices, such as thepump 212 and/or heater, can also be disposed between theshell 320 and thecabinet 312. Theshell 320 includes acircular opening 322 sized to receive thehousing jet assembly shell 320 also includes anopening 324 for thesuction outlet 222, for drawing liquid from theshell 320 into thecirculation system 210. Thecabinet 312 and shell 320 can be any common size, as is known in the art. For example, aconventional spa 310 can be about 6 ft wide, 6 ft long, and about 4 ft high. However, spas of any size can be adapted to include theliquid circulation system 210 and extendable jet(s) 36, 136, described herein. - Although the invention has been described in detail for the purpose of illustration based on what is currently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that such detail is solely for that purpose and that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but, on the contrary, is intended to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the present invention contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any embodiment can be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment.
Claims (28)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US16/782,115 US20200260916A1 (en) | 2019-02-14 | 2020-02-05 | Extendable Jet Assembly and Liquid Circulation System |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US201962805420P | 2019-02-14 | 2019-02-14 | |
US16/782,115 US20200260916A1 (en) | 2019-02-14 | 2020-02-05 | Extendable Jet Assembly and Liquid Circulation System |
Publications (1)
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US20200260916A1 true US20200260916A1 (en) | 2020-08-20 |
Family
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US16/782,115 Abandoned US20200260916A1 (en) | 2019-02-14 | 2020-02-05 | Extendable Jet Assembly and Liquid Circulation System |
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US (1) | US20200260916A1 (en) |
-
2020
- 2020-02-05 US US16/782,115 patent/US20200260916A1/en not_active Abandoned
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