US20210041900A1 - Thermostatic mixing valve with disinfecting facility - Google Patents
Thermostatic mixing valve with disinfecting facility Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20210041900A1 US20210041900A1 US17/013,794 US202017013794A US2021041900A1 US 20210041900 A1 US20210041900 A1 US 20210041900A1 US 202017013794 A US202017013794 A US 202017013794A US 2021041900 A1 US2021041900 A1 US 2021041900A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- plunger
- thermostatic
- mixing valve
- housing
- thermostatic element
- Prior art date
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- G—PHYSICS
- G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
- G05D—SYSTEMS FOR CONTROLLING OR REGULATING NON-ELECTRIC VARIABLES
- G05D23/00—Control of temperature
- G05D23/01—Control of temperature without auxiliary power
- G05D23/02—Control of temperature without auxiliary power with sensing element expanding and contracting in response to changes of temperature
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
- F16K11/00—Multiple-way valves, e.g. mixing valves; Pipe fittings incorporating such valves
- F16K11/02—Multiple-way valves, e.g. mixing valves; Pipe fittings incorporating such valves with all movable sealing faces moving as one unit
- F16K11/04—Multiple-way valves, e.g. mixing valves; Pipe fittings incorporating such valves with all movable sealing faces moving as one unit comprising only lift valves
- F16K11/044—Multiple-way valves, e.g. mixing valves; Pipe fittings incorporating such valves with all movable sealing faces moving as one unit comprising only lift valves with movable valve members positioned between valve seats
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
- G05D—SYSTEMS FOR CONTROLLING OR REGULATING NON-ELECTRIC VARIABLES
- G05D23/00—Control of temperature
- G05D23/01—Control of temperature without auxiliary power
- G05D23/13—Control of temperature without auxiliary power by varying the mixing ratio of two fluids having different temperatures
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
- G05D—SYSTEMS FOR CONTROLLING OR REGULATING NON-ELECTRIC VARIABLES
- G05D23/00—Control of temperature
- G05D23/01—Control of temperature without auxiliary power
- G05D23/13—Control of temperature without auxiliary power by varying the mixing ratio of two fluids having different temperatures
- G05D23/1306—Control of temperature without auxiliary power by varying the mixing ratio of two fluids having different temperatures for liquids
- G05D23/132—Control of temperature without auxiliary power by varying the mixing ratio of two fluids having different temperatures for liquids with temperature sensing element
- G05D23/134—Control of temperature without auxiliary power by varying the mixing ratio of two fluids having different temperatures for liquids with temperature sensing element measuring the temperature of mixed fluid
- G05D23/1346—Control of temperature without auxiliary power by varying the mixing ratio of two fluids having different temperatures for liquids with temperature sensing element measuring the temperature of mixed fluid with manual temperature setting means
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Automation & Control Theory (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Multiple-Way Valves (AREA)
- Temperature-Responsive Valves (AREA)
- Indication Of The Valve Opening Or Closing Status (AREA)
Abstract
A thermostatic mixing valve including: a first fluid inlet; a second fluid inlet; an outlet; a thermostatic element connected to a return spring and a piston such that movement of the thermostatic element assists with moving the piston, movement of the piston controlling fluid flow from the first fluid inlet and the second fluid inlet to the outlet; a housing containing an overtravel spring, the overtravel spring configured to resist a force applied by the thermostatic element during movement thereof; and a plunger extending into the housing, the plunger configured to engage the overtravel spring, wherein rotating the plunger adjusts the resistance applied onto the thermostatic element from the overtravel spring.
Description
- The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/773,893 filed May 4, 2018, and claims priority to PCT International Patent Application No. PCT/AU2016/051055 (now expired), Australian Patent Application No. 2015905339 filed on Dec. 22, 2015, and Australian Patent Application No. 2015904544 filed on Nov. 5, 2015, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.
- Not Applicable
- The invention relates to a thermostatic mixing valve and, in particular, to designs for improving the functionality of thermostatic mixing valves by incorporating thermal disinfecting means.
- Reference to background art herein is not to be construed as an admission that such art constitutes common general knowledge in Australia or elsewhere.
- The fundamental purpose of thermostatic mixing valves is to:
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- Receive hot water
- Receive cold water
- Output relatively constant temperature water by regulating the flow rates of the hot and cold water coming into the valve.
- There are many applications and industries that require these types of valves including sanitary water, heating and cooling, and industrial control. The mechanisms discussed are likely to be applied to other industries if shown to have commercial success. The vast majority of thermostatic mixing valves on the market utilise subtle variations of a particular design.
- Normally, the spindle in a thermostatic mixing valve incorporates an overtravel mechanism that prevents the thermostatic element from becoming overloaded when subjected to high temperatures. This mechanism consists of an overtravel spring, preloaded to a force lower than the maximum load recommended by the element manufacturer but higher than the preload of the return spring, held captive by a retainer that the element also acts upon. When the thermostatic element is subjected to hot water it extends against the captive retainer and compresses the return spring, pushing the piston against the hot seat. If excessive temperatures are encountered the thermostatic element will act on the retainer and compress the overtravel spring rather than overloading the element which could potentially result in failure of the thermostatic element diaphragm which retains the thermostatic element's expansive medium in place.
- To avoid colonization by harmful bacteria in the valves and fittings, they must be disinfected from time to time. One method is thermal disinfection. This requires the temperature of water passing into and through the valves to be increased to an elevated temperature (e.g. between 60° C. and 70° C.) for a period of time followed by return to normal operating temperature for such valves.
- However, as the thermostatic mixing valves are designed to regulate the hot and cold water to produce a relatively constant temperature output, thermostatic valves are not readily able to reach the above elevated temperatures to effectively disinfect the valves.
- It is an aim of this invention to provide a thermostatic mixing valve which overcomes or ameliorates one or more of the disadvantages or problems described above, or which at least provides a useful alternative.
- For example, an aim of the present invention is that, when actuated, hot water at a temperature high enough to kill Legionella bacteria, and other harmful water borne bacteria, is allowed to pass through the valve and associated downstream pipework thereby disinfecting the system.
- Other preferred objects of the present invention will become apparent from the following description.
- In one form, although not necessarily the only or broadest form, the invention resides in a thermostatic mixing valve including means for enabling flow of hot water through the valve to thereby disinfect, said thermostatic mixing valve including:
- a spindle threadedly engaging a plunger which engages a turning or rotating means, and which also engages an overtravel spring the turning or rotating of the turning or rotating means in one direction leading to the decrease in force acting on the overtravel spring, thereby relaxing the overtravel spring, and allowing the return spring to force a thermostatic element and a piston within the valve to a position in which hot water can flow into the valve to thereby disinfect.
- In another form, the invention resides in a thermostatic mixing valve including:
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- a first fluid inlet;
- a second fluid inlet;
- an outlet;
- a thermostatic element connected to a return spring and a piston such that movement of the thermostatic element assists with moving the piston, movement of the piston controlling fluid flow from the first fluid inlet and the second fluid inlet to the outlet;
- a housing containing an overtravel spring, the overtravel spring configured to resist a force applied by the thermostatic element during movement thereof; and
- a plunger extending into the housing, the plunger configured to engage the overtravel spring, wherein rotating the plunger adjusts the resistance applied onto the thermostatic element from the overtravel spring.
- Preferably, in response to rotating the plunger in a first direction, a first portion of the plunger moves towards the thermostatic element.
- Preferably, in response to rotating the plunger in a second direction, the first portion of the plunger moves away from the thermostatic element.
- Preferably, the first portion of the plunger is configured to move from a first position to a second position.
- Preferably, in the second position, substantially no resistance is applied onto the thermostatic element from the overtravel spring.
- Preferably, the plunger includes a second portion.
- Preferably, the first portion is threadingly coupled to the second portion.
- Preferably, the first portion is configured to move through an aperture in the second portion. Preferably, the aperture includes a thread that engages with a threaded part of the first portion.
- Preferably, in the first position, a first shoulder of the first portion engages with the second portion.
- Preferably, in the first position, an end of the first portion is located substantially next to an end of the second portion.
- Preferably, in the second position, the thermostatic element is able to move through the aperture of the second portion.
- Preferably, the thermostatic mixing valve includes one or more associated mechanical stops to limit movement of the thermostatic element. Preferably, the one or more associated mechanical stops limit the maximum and minimum end travel of the thermostatic element.
- Preferably, in the second position, the thermostatic element avoids engaging the first portion and no resistance is applied onto the thermostatic element from the overtravel spring.
- Preferably, the first portion includes a socket portion.
- Preferably, the first portion includes one or more recesses to receive a sealing ring therein.
- Preferably, the second portion includes a base portion that engages with the overtravel spring.
- Preferably, the second portion includes an upstanding portion that is configured to engage with the first shoulder of the first portion.
- Preferably, the aperture extends through the base and upstanding portion.
- Preferably, in the first position, the plunger sits substantially level with an upper face of the housing.
- Preferably, in the second position, the plunger extends above an upper face of the housing.
- Preferably, in the second position, a visual indicator is visible on the plunger.
- Preferably, the second portion is retained in the housing with a clip.
- Preferably, the plunger is located inboard of the retaining spring.
- Preferably, the housing is connected to an intermediary body. Preferably, the housing is threadingly connected to the intermediary body.
- Preferably, a first body in the form of a knob covers the housing and the plunger.
- In a further form, the plunger is connected to the first body such that the first body may be turned to rotate the plunger.
- Preferably, the first body is connected to a second body. Preferably, the first body is connected to the second body by the intermediary body.
- Preferably, the second body includes the first fluid inlet, the second fluid inlet, the outlet, the thermostatic element, the return spring and/or the piston.
- In another form, the invention resides in a thermostatic mixing valve including:
-
- a first fluid inlet;
- a second fluid inlet;
- an outlet;
- a thermostatic element connected to a return spring and a piston such that movement of the thermostatic element assists with moving the piston, movement of the piston controlling fluid flow from the first fluid inlet and the second fluid inlet to the outlet;
- a housing containing an overtravel spring, the overtravel spring configured to receive a force from the thermostatic element,
- a plunger extending into the housing, the plunger configured to apply a force on the overtravel spring,
- wherein the plunger is connected to a first body such that when the first body is moved away from the housing, the force on the overtravel spring is decreased.
- Preferably, the first body covers the housing. Preferably, the first body is in the form of a knob.
- Preferably, the plunger is configured to move from a first position in the housing to a second position in the housing.
- Preferably, in the first position the overtravel spring is compressed.
- Preferably, in the second position, the overtravel spring is at its free length. Preferably, in the second position, the plunger engages a top portion of the housing.
- Preferably, the plunger threadingly engages the housing.
- Preferably, the plunger is configured to provide the force on the overtravel spring from thereabove.
- Preferably, a retainer is located at an end of the housing to retain the overtravel spring.
- Preferably, the retainer is engaged by the thermostatic element. Preferably, the retainer is configured to move along the housing with the engagement of the thermostatic element.
- Preferably, the housing is in the form of a spindle.
- Preferably, the first body is connected to a second body. Preferably, the first body is connected to the second body by an intermediary body.
- Preferably, the second body includes the first fluid inlet, the second fluid inlet, the outlet, the thermostatic element, the return spring and/or the piston.
- Preferably, thermostatic mixing valve includes a visual indicator. Preferably, the visual indicator is exposed as the first body moves away from the housing.
- In another form the invention resides in a method of elevating a temperature in a thermostatic mixing valve, the method including the steps of:
-
- providing fluid to a first fluid inlet;
- rotating a plunger extending into a housing in order to reduce the resistance applied by an overtravel spring onto a thermostatic element, the thermostatic element being connected to a piston; and allowing the piston to move in a direction that maintains the flow of fluid through the first fluid inlet.
- Preferably, the step of rotating the plunger extending into the housing in order to reduce the resistance applied by the overtravel spring onto the thermostatic element includes engaging a tool with an upper portion of the plunger.
- Preferably, the step of rotating the plunger extending into the housing in order to reduce the resistance applied by the overtravel spring onto the thermostatic element includes rotating a knob covering the housing.
- In another form the invention resides in a method of elevating a temperature in a thermostatic mixing valve, the method including the steps of:
-
- providing fluid to the thermostatic mixing valve;
- moving a first body away from a housing in the thermostatic mixing valve to allow a piston to move towards the first body, the first body being connected to a plunger extending into the housing,
- wherein allowing the piston to move towards the first body assists in allowing the fluid to flow through the thermostatic mixing valve.
- Preferably, the fluid is above approximately 60° C.
- Preferably, the step of moving the first body away from the housing in the thermostatic mixing valve includes turning the first body.
- Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description.
- By way of example, the present invention incorporates a means of removing the preload from the overtravel spring so that the combination force of the return spring, plus expansion of the thermostatic element responding to a higher temperature environment, is able to overcome it, thus allowing hot water to flow through the valve despite the thermostatic element being subjected to hot water. The mechanism is actuated by rotating the threaded plunger so as to allow the thread to bottom out or the overtravel spring reaches its free length. The height of the plunger when fully unscrewed is such that the knob that covers the adjustment mechanism cannot be properly reinstalled and a visual warning indicator is displayed, thereby ensuring that the valve is returned to its operational state once disinfection is achieved. To return the valve to its operational state the plunger is rotated until the thread disengages or meets a stopper.
- In another form, the present invention incorporates a means for allowing the thermostatic element to extend without engaging a plunger that resists movement thereof with an overtravel spring. The mechanism is actuated by rotating the plunger, as further outlined below.
- By way of example only, preferred embodiments of the invention will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying figures, wherein:
-
FIG. 1 is a sectional view through a thermostatic mixing valve, according to an embodiment of the invention, in the disinfection position; -
FIG. 2 is a sectional view of the embodiment ofFIG. 1 in a normal operating position; and -
FIG. 3 is a sectional view of a thermostatic mixing valve, according to a further embodiment on the invention. -
FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate athermostatic mixing valve 10 a, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The mixingvalve 10 a includes a firstfluid inlet 2 a, a secondfluid inlet 3 a and anoutlet 4 a. The firstfluid inlet 2 a, secondfluid inlet 3 a andoutlet 4 a are located below a first body in the form ofknob 26 a. The firstfluid inlet 2 a, secondfluid inlet 3 a andoutlet 4 a form part of asecond body 27 a. Theknob 26 a andsecond body 27 a are connected through anintermediary body 25 a. - The
knob 26 a encloses a housing that is located adjacent theintermediary body 25 a and aplunger 16 a. The housing in this embodiment is in the form ofspindle 12 a. Thespindle 12 a has ashaft 14 a that is long enough to accommodate aplunger 16 a andovertravel spring 20 a therein. Thespindle 12 a retains at its upper end theplunger 16 a. Theplunger 16 a interacts at itslower end 18 a withovertravel spring 20 a. - The
upper end 22 a ofplunger 16 a interacts with the innerupper surface 24 a ofknob 26 a. That is, theplunger 16 a is engaged with the innerupper surface 24 a and is under the influence ofovertravel spring 20 a. Theovertravel spring 20 a is retained in thespindle 12 a between theplunger 16 a and aretainer 15 a. - The length of the
shaft 14 a in thespindle 12 a allows theovertravel spring 20 a to extend to an unloaded length when theknob 26 a is turned until either athread 28 a on theplunger 16 a is wound out to its fullest extent or theovertravel spring 20 a reaches its fully unloaded length. At that stage the force exerted byreturn spring 30 a overcomes resistance exerted by theovertravel spring 20 a, movingpiston 34 a (located adjacenthot set 33 a) upwardly and allowing hot water to flow through thevalve 10 a even though thethermostatic element 32 a is being subjected to higher temperature. This is shown inFIG. 2 and effects the desired disinfection of the valve. - The winding out of the
knob 26 a also uncovers avisual indicator 36 a warning that disinfection is in progress. An alternate indicator may include a spring loaded indicator projecting outwardly of the valve body making it more apparent disinfection is occurring. - Turning the
knob 26 a in an opposite direction to the above pushes theplunger 16 a downwardly and thethread 28 a engages the corresponding thread on thespindle 12 a. This leads to compression of theovertravel spring 20 a so that thevalve 10 a returns to its normal operational state. This is shown inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 illustrates athermostatic mixing valve 10 b, in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention. The mixingvalve 10 b includes a firstfluid inlet 2 b, a secondfluid inlet 3 b and an outlet 4 b. - With the above in mind, the use of a reference numeral followed by a lower case letter in this description typically indicates alternative embodiments of a general element identified by the reference numeral. Thus for example first
fluid inlet 2 a is similar to but not necessarily identical to firstfluid inlet 2 b. Further, references to an element identified only by the numeral refer to all embodiments of that element. Thus for example a reference to first fluid inlets 2 is intended to include both the firstfluid inlet 2 a and the secondfluid inlet 2 b. - The first
fluid inlet 2 b, secondfluid inlet 3 b and outlet 4 b are located below a first body in the form ofknob 26 b. The firstfluid inlet 2 b, secondfluid inlet 3 b and outlet 4 b form part of asecond body 27 b. Theknob 26 b andsecond body 27 b are connected through anintermediary body 25 b. In mixingvalve 10 b, the firstfluid inlet 2 b and the secondfluid inlet 3 b are substantially aligned. The outlet 4 b is located below the firstfluid inlet 2 b and the secondfluid inlet 3 b. In this regard, thesecond body 27 b is substantially in the form of a T-shape. - Similar to thermostatic mixing
valve 10 a, theknob 26 b in thethermostatic mixing valve 10 b encloses a housing in the form of aspindle 12 b. Thespindle 12 b is threadingly connected to theintermediary body 25 b. Thespindle 12 b includes ashaft 14 b. Thespindle 12 b retains aplunger 16 b andovertravel spring 20 b therein. Theplunger 16 b extends into theovertravel spring 20 b. With this in mind, theovertravel spring 20 b is located outboard of theplunger 16 b. Theovertravel spring 20 b engages with a shoulder in thespindle 12 b. - The
plunger 16 b includes afirst portion 16 b′ and asecond portion 16 b″. Thefirst portion 16 b′ includes athread 17 b′. Thethread 17 b′ has a first shoulder located thereabove. Thefirst portion 16 b′ includes anupper end 22 b that includes a socket portion. The socket portion in this embodiment is in the form of a hex socket. Below theupper end 22 b of thefirst portion 16 b′ are two recess portions including sealing rings therein. Below theupper end 22 b of thefirst portion 16 b′ is also a second shoulder. Avisual indicator 36 b is located on theupper end 22 b of thefirst portion 16 b′. - The
second portion 16 b″ includes an aperture therethrough. The aperture includes athread 17 b″. Thesecond portion 16 b″ includes alower end 18 b″ that forms a base. An upstanding portion extends away from thelower end 18 b″. Theovertravel spring 20 b engages with the base and extends in a direction along the upstanding portion. Theovertravel spring 20 b is therefore configured to resist a force applied onto theplunger 16 b, as outlined further below. - The
thread 17 b′ of thefirst portion 16 b′ engages with thethread 17 b″ of thesecond portion 16 b″. In this regard, it would be appreciated that in response to rotating thefirst portion 16 b′ of theplunger 16 b in a first direction, thefirst portion 16 b′ travels downward along the aperture towards thethermostatic element 32 b. Thefirst portion 16 b′ may be rotated by engaging a hex key with the socket portion. In a first position, the first shoulder of thefirst portion 16 b′ engages with thesecond portion 16 b″ such that thefirst portion 16 b′ is restricted from moving further towards thethermostatic element 32 b. - In the first position, the
thermostatic element 32 b readily engages with thefirst portion 16 b′. In response to hot fluid (i.e. fluid above approximately 60° C.) entering thefirst inlet 2 b, thethermostatic element 32 b begins to grow in a direction towards theupper end 22 b, due to an increase in temperature. As thethermostatic element 32 b engages thefirst portion 16 b′ (in the first position) and continues to grow in a direction towards theupper end 22 b, due to an increase in temperature, theovertravel spring 20 b is configured to resist the movement of thethermostatic element 32 b. As a result of this resistance, thethermostatic element 32 b is directed to move in a downward direction towards the outlet 4 b (under the lower resistance of thereturn spring 30 b). This in turn moves thepiston 34 b (located adjacenthot set 33 b) in a downward direction such that the flow of hot fluid through the associatedinlet 2 b is further restricted. - To effect a desired disinfection of the
valve 10 b, thefirst portion 16 b′ of theplunger 16 b is moved to a second position, as shown inFIG. 3 . It would be appreciated that to move thefirst portion 16 b′ to the second position, thefirst portion 16 b′ is rotated in a second direction in order to move it away from thethermostatic element 32 b. Theknob 26 b is removed to allow access to thefirst portion 16 b′. Thefirst portion 16 b′ moves away from thethermostatic element 32 b until the second shoulder of thefirst portion 16 b′ engages with thespindle 12 b. - With the
first portion 16 b′ in the second position, thethermostatic element 32 b is allowed to grow (or move) through the aperture in thesecond portion 16 b″. In this regard, thethermostatic element 32 b does not engage theplunger 16 b and, therefore, no resistance is provided via theovertravel spring 20 b. Accordingly, the flow of hot fluid through the firstfluid inlet 2 b is not restricted by thepiston 34 b moving towards the outlet 4 b. Thermal disinfection of thevalve 10 b and downstream therefrom may therefore occur. A user can identify when thevalve 10 b is undergoing thermal disinfection as thevisual indicator 36 b will be visible above thespindle 12 b. - The mixing valves 10 provide a means to readily reach an elevated temperature, with the flow of hot fluid, to effectively disinfect the valves 10. In particular, the plungers 16 are easily rotated to adjust the resistance applied by the overtravel spring 20 onto the thermostatic element 32. Disinfecting the valves 10 in this manner avoids colonization of harmful bacteria in the valves 10 and downstream thereof.
- The visual indicators 36 provide an indication to a user when the mixing valves 10 are in a disinfection state. This assists in increasing safety as the user is warned when the mixing valves 10 are not in a normal operating condition.
- In this specification, adjectives such as first and second, left and right, top and bottom, and the like may be used solely to distinguish one element or action from another element or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order. Where the context permits, reference to an integer or a component or step (or the like) is not to be interpreted as being limited to only one of that integer, component, or step, but rather could be one or more of that integer, component, or step etc.
- The above description of various embodiments of the present invention is provided for purposes of description to one of ordinary skill in the related art. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to a single disclosed embodiment. As mentioned above, numerous alternatives and variations to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art of the above teaching. Accordingly, while some alternative embodiments have been discussed specifically, other embodiments will be apparent or relatively easily developed by those of ordinary skill in the art. The invention is intended to embrace all alternatives, modifications, and variations of the present invention that have been discussed herein, and other embodiments that fall within the spirit and scope of the above described invention.
- In this specification, the terms ‘comprises’, ‘comprising’, ‘includes’, ‘including’, or similar terms are intended to mean a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a method, system or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include those elements solely, but may well include other elements not listed.
Claims (20)
1. A thermostatic mixing valve including:
a body comprising:
a first fluid inlet;
a second fluid inlet;
an outlet; and
a thermostatic element connected to a return spring and a piston such that movement of the thermostatic element assists with moving the piston, movement of the piston controlling fluid flow from the first fluid inlet and the second fluid inlet to the outlet;
an intermediary body connected to the body, the intermediary body being connected to a housing containing an overtravel spring, the overtravel spring configured to resist a force applied by the thermostatic element during movement thereof; and
a plunger extending into the housing, the plunger configured to apply a force on the overtravel spring, the plunger configured to
adjust the resistance applied onto the thermostatic element from the overtravel spring upon the plunger being rotated, thereby allowing the return spring to overcome the overtravel spring, despite the thermostatic element being subjected to a higher temperature, or allow the thermostatic element to extend without engaging the plunger, such that hot water flows through the thermostatic mixing valve for thermally disinfecting the valve.
2. The thermostatic mixing valve of claim 1 , wherein in response to rotating the plunger in a first direction, a first portion of the plunger moves towards the thermostatic element.
3. The thermostatic mixing valve of claim 2 , wherein in response to rotating the plunger in a second direction, the first portion of the plunger moves away from the thermostatic element.
4. The thermostatic mixing valve of claim 2 , wherein the first portion of the plunger is configured to move from a first position to a second position where substantially no resistance is applied onto the thermostatic element from the overtravel spring.
5. The thermostatic mixing valve of claim 4 , wherein a visual indicator is visible on the plunger in the second position.
6. The thermostatic mixing valve of claim 4 , wherein the plunger includes a second portion that is threadingly coupled to the first portion.
7. The thermostatic mixing valve of claim 6 , wherein in the second position, the thermostatic element is able to move through an aperture of the second portion.
8. The thermostatic mixing valve of claim 1 , wherein the housing is threadingly connected to an intermediary body.
9. The thermostatic mixing valve of claim 1 , wherein a first body in the form of a knob covers the housing and the plunger.
10. The thermostatic mixing valve of claim 9 , wherein the plunger is connected to the first body such that the first body may be turned to rotate the plunger.
11. A thermostatic mixing valve including:
a body comprising:
a first fluid inlet;
a second fluid inlet;
an outlet; and
a thermostatic element connected to a return spring and a piston such that movement of the thermostatic element assists with moving the piston, movement of the piston controlling fluid flow from the first fluid inlet and the second fluid inlet to the outlet;
an intermediary body connected to the body, the intermediary body being connected to a housing containing an overtravel spring, the overtravel spring configured to receive a force from the thermostatic element,
a plunger extending into the housing, the plunger configured to apply a force on the overtravel spring,
wherein the plunger is connected to a first body such that when the first body is moved away from the housing, the force on the overtravel spring is decreased, thereby allowing the return spring to overcome the overtravel spring, despite the thermostatic element being subjected to a higher temperature, or allow the thermostatic element to extend without engaging the plunger, such that hot water flows through the thermostatic mixing valve for thermally disinfecting the valve.
12. The thermostatic mixing valve of claim 11 , wherein the first body covers the housing.
13. The thermostatic mixing valve of claim 11 , wherein the plunger threadingly engages the housing.
14. The thermostatic mixing valve of claim 11 , wherein the thermostatic mixing valve includes a visual indicator that is exposed as the first body moves away from the housing.
15. A method of elevating a temperature in a thermostatic mixing valve to thermally disinfect the valve, the method including the steps of:
providing fluid to a first fluid inlet of a body of the thermostatic mixing valve;
rotating a plunger extending into a housing in order to reduce the resistance applied by an overtravel spring onto a thermostatic element, the thermostatic element being connected to a piston and the housing being connected to an intermediary body that is attached to the body; and
the reduced resistance on the thermostatic element allowing the piston to move in a direction that maintains the flow of fluid through the first fluid inlet, to thermally disinfect the valve.
16. The method of claim 15 , wherein the step of rotating the plunger extending into the housing in order to reduce the resistance applied by the overtravel spring onto the thermostatic element includes engaging a tool with an upper portion of the plunger.
17. The method of claim 15 , wherein the step of rotating the plunger extending into the housing in order to reduce the resistance applied by the overtravel spring onto the thermostatic element includes rotating a knob covering the housing.
18. (canceled)
19. (canceled)
20. The method of claim 15 , wherein the fluid is above approximately 60° C.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US17/013,794 US20210041900A1 (en) | 2015-05-05 | 2020-10-28 | Thermostatic mixing valve with disinfecting facility |
Applications Claiming Priority (7)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
AU2015904544A AU2015904544A0 (en) | 2015-11-05 | A thermostatic mixing valve with disinfecting facility | |
AU2015904544 | 2015-11-05 | ||
AU2015905339 | 2015-12-22 | ||
AU2015905339A AU2015905339A0 (en) | 2015-12-22 | A thermostatic mixing valve with disinfecting facility | |
US15/773,893 US10802511B2 (en) | 2015-11-05 | 2016-11-04 | Thermostatic mixing valve with disinfecting facility |
PCT/AU2016/051055 WO2017075668A1 (en) | 2015-11-05 | 2016-11-04 | A thermostatic mixing valve with disinfecting facility |
US17/013,794 US20210041900A1 (en) | 2015-05-05 | 2020-10-28 | Thermostatic mixing valve with disinfecting facility |
Related Parent Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/AU2016/051055 Continuation WO2017075668A1 (en) | 2015-05-05 | 2016-11-04 | A thermostatic mixing valve with disinfecting facility |
US15/773,893 Continuation US10802511B2 (en) | 2015-05-05 | 2016-11-04 | Thermostatic mixing valve with disinfecting facility |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20210041900A1 true US20210041900A1 (en) | 2021-02-11 |
Family
ID=58661378
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US15/773,893 Active 2037-02-12 US10802511B2 (en) | 2015-05-05 | 2016-11-04 | Thermostatic mixing valve with disinfecting facility |
US17/013,794 Abandoned US20210041900A1 (en) | 2015-05-05 | 2020-10-28 | Thermostatic mixing valve with disinfecting facility |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US15/773,893 Active 2037-02-12 US10802511B2 (en) | 2015-05-05 | 2016-11-04 | Thermostatic mixing valve with disinfecting facility |
Country Status (7)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US10802511B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP3371491B1 (en) |
CN (2) | CN108351036A (en) |
AU (1) | AU2016349952B2 (en) |
CA (1) | CA3004109A1 (en) |
NZ (1) | NZ742177A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2017075668A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11697929B2 (en) | 2019-01-18 | 2023-07-11 | Geberit International Ag | Anti-scald device for fluid supply system having hot water disinfection |
Families Citing this family (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN108351036A (en) | 2015-11-05 | 2018-07-31 | 信实环球企业(澳大利亚)私人有限公司 | Constant temperature mixed valve with disinfection apparatus |
CN111164535A (en) * | 2017-07-06 | 2020-05-15 | 诚信全球公司(澳大利亚)私人有限公司 | Disinfection device for a valve |
IT201800006696A1 (en) * | 2018-06-26 | 2019-12-26 | THERMOSTATIC MIXING VALVE GROUP WITH DISINFECTION DEVICE | |
FR3089590B1 (en) * | 2018-12-06 | 2020-12-25 | Vernet | Thermostatic cartridge for mixer tap |
FR3105337B1 (en) * | 2019-12-18 | 2022-03-25 | Vernet | Device for controlling the flow of a fluid |
CA3132008A1 (en) * | 2021-09-27 | 2023-03-27 | Hydro Quebec | System for reducing a risk of bacterial contamination of a water heater |
WO2024056565A1 (en) * | 2022-09-13 | 2024-03-21 | Pittway Sarl | Thermostatic mixing valve |
Family Cites Families (15)
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US2657859A (en) * | 1950-08-28 | 1953-11-03 | Detroit Controls Corp | Thermostatic mixing valve |
US3294321A (en) * | 1964-02-21 | 1966-12-27 | Dole Valve Co | Zone thermostatic valve with multiple movable seats |
FR2067762A5 (en) | 1969-11-15 | 1971-08-20 | Queroy Ets | |
US4846219A (en) * | 1988-01-15 | 1989-07-11 | Parker-Hannifin Corporation | Pressure relief by pass control valve |
DE19502147C2 (en) | 1995-01-25 | 1997-11-27 | Ideal Standard | Sanitary mixer tap with thermostat |
DE19950974A1 (en) * | 1999-10-22 | 2001-04-26 | Kludi Armaturen Scheffer Vertr | Hot / cold water mixer tap with quick changeover |
EP1692580B1 (en) | 2003-12-05 | 2008-03-12 | Manolo Ruga | Thermostatic mixing valve |
EP1774210B1 (en) * | 2004-07-29 | 2009-06-17 | GSA Industries (Aust.) Pty Ltd | A mixing valve |
DE102004050996B4 (en) * | 2004-10-20 | 2013-07-25 | Hansa Metallwerke Ag | Sanitary thermostatic mixing valve |
US7392955B1 (en) * | 2005-04-01 | 2008-07-01 | Karsten Laing | System and method for temperature control of hot-water supply system |
ITMI20070936A1 (en) * | 2007-05-09 | 2008-11-10 | Caleffi Spa | SYSTEM AND MIXING GROUP FOR SANITARY SYSTEMS WITH ANI-LEGIONELLA DISINFECTION FUNCTION |
US20110168927A1 (en) * | 2010-01-14 | 2011-07-14 | Chia-Hua Yuan | Temperature controlled valve core |
FR2983986B1 (en) * | 2011-12-07 | 2014-10-03 | Vernet | THERMOSTATIC CARTRIDGE FOR CONTROLLING HOT AND COLD FLUIDS |
DE102013003743A1 (en) * | 2013-03-06 | 2014-09-11 | Grohe Ag | Overload unit for a thermostatic valve |
CN108351036A (en) | 2015-11-05 | 2018-07-31 | 信实环球企业(澳大利亚)私人有限公司 | Constant temperature mixed valve with disinfection apparatus |
-
2016
- 2016-11-04 CN CN201680064859.6A patent/CN108351036A/en active Pending
- 2016-11-04 WO PCT/AU2016/051055 patent/WO2017075668A1/en active Application Filing
- 2016-11-04 US US15/773,893 patent/US10802511B2/en active Active
- 2016-11-04 CA CA3004109A patent/CA3004109A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2016-11-04 EP EP16861124.2A patent/EP3371491B1/en active Active
- 2016-11-04 CN CN202310103114.8A patent/CN115978233A/en active Pending
- 2016-11-04 NZ NZ742177A patent/NZ742177A/en unknown
- 2016-11-04 AU AU2016349952A patent/AU2016349952B2/en active Active
-
2020
- 2020-10-28 US US17/013,794 patent/US20210041900A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11697929B2 (en) | 2019-01-18 | 2023-07-11 | Geberit International Ag | Anti-scald device for fluid supply system having hot water disinfection |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP3371491A4 (en) | 2019-06-12 |
CN115978233A (en) | 2023-04-18 |
US10802511B2 (en) | 2020-10-13 |
CN108351036A (en) | 2018-07-31 |
EP3371491B1 (en) | 2022-01-05 |
AU2016349952A1 (en) | 2018-05-24 |
EP3371491A1 (en) | 2018-09-12 |
US20180321697A1 (en) | 2018-11-08 |
AU2016349952B2 (en) | 2021-08-05 |
CA3004109A1 (en) | 2017-05-11 |
NZ742177A (en) | 2023-06-30 |
WO2017075668A1 (en) | 2017-05-11 |
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