WO2021150596A1

WO2021150596A1 - Plumbing fixture fitting for delivering encapsulated material in water stream

Info

Publication number: WO2021150596A1
Application number: PCT/US2021/014163
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ryan M. SNITIL
Original assignee: Fb Global Plumbing Group Llc; Skinjay Sa
Priority date: 2020-01-20
Filing date: 2021-01-20
Publication date: 2021-07-29

Abstract

The present invention provides a dispensing device or plumbing fixture fitting for dispensing or delivering encapsulated material in a water stream, such as a showering product for infusing material in a capsule into water flowing through the showering product. The showering product includes an infusion assembly. The infusion assembly includes a retaining subassembly, a sealing subassembly, and a dilution subassembly. The sealing subassembly is not operable to create a low pressure seal until the retaining subassembly has received and partially retained a capsule assembly. The dilution subassembly is not operable to pierce the capsule assembly until the sealing subassembly has created the low pressure seal. The sealing subassembly is not operable to create a high pressure seal until the retaining subassembly has received and fully retained the capsule assembly. The dilution subassembly is not operable to permit flow of water until the sealing subassembly has created the high pressure seal.

Description

PLUMBING FIXTURE FITTING FOR DELIVERING ENCAPSULATED MATERIAL IN WATER STREAM

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.

62/963,497, filed January 20, 2020, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates generally to a plumbing fixture fitting for delivering encapsulated material in a water stream and, more particularly, a showering product for infusing material in a capsule into water flowing through the showering product.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Plumbing fixture fittings for delivering encapsulated material in a water stream are known. Additional features for these devices are desired.

SUMMARY

[0004] The present invention provides a dispensing device or plumbing fixture fitting for dispensing or delivering encapsulated material in a water stream.

[0005] In an exemplary embodiment, the plumbing fixture fitting is a showering product for infusing material in a capsule into water flowing through the showering product. The showering product comprises a housing assembly, a flow assembly, and an infusion assembly. The housing assembly includes a housing body. The flow assembly includes an inlet, a non-infused flow path, an infusion chamber, and an infused flow path. The infusion assembly is operable to mount to the housing body. The infusion assembly is operable to receive non-infused water from and deliver infused water to the infusion chamber. The infusion assembly includes a retaining subassembly, a sealing subassembly, and a dilution subassembly. The retaining subassembly is operable to receive and partially retain a capsule assembly in the retaining subassembly. The retaining subassembly is operable to fully retain the capsule assembly in the retaining subassembly. The sealing subassembly is operable to create a low pressure seal between the sealing subassembly and the capsule assembly. The sealing subassembly is operable to create a high pressure seal between the sealing subassembly and the capsule assembly. The dilution subassembly is operable to pierce the capsule assembly. The dilution subassembly is operable to permit a flow of water through the dilution subassembly and the capsule assembly. The sealing subassembly is not operable to create the low pressure seal until the retaining subassembly has partially retained the capsule assembly. The dilution subassembly is not operable to pierce the capsule assembly until the sealing subassembly has created the low pressure seal. The sealing subassembly is not operable to create the high pressure seal until the retaining subassembly has fully retained the capsule assembly. The dilution subassembly is not operable to permit the flow of water until the sealing subassembly has created the high pressure seal.

[0006] In an exemplary embodiment, the plumbing fixture fitting is a showering product for infusing material in a capsule into water flowing through the showering product. The showering product comprises a housing assembly, a flow assembly, and an infusion assembly. The housing assembly includes a housing body. The flow assembly includes an inlet, a non-infused flow path, an infusion chamber, and an infused flow path. The infusion assembly is operable to mount to the housing body. The infusion assembly is operable to receive non-infused water from and deliver infused water to the infusion chamber. The infusion assembly includes a retaining subassembly, a sealing subassembly, and a dilution subassembly. The retaining subassembly is operable to receive and partially retain a capsule assembly in the retaining subassembly. The sealing subassembly is operable to create a low pressure seal between the sealing subassembly and the capsule assembly. The dilution subassembly is operable to pierce the capsule assembly. The sealing subassembly is not operable to create the low pressure seal until the retaining subassembly has partially retained the capsule assembly. The dilution subassembly is not operable to pierce the capsule assembly until the sealing subassembly has created the low pressure seal.

[0007] In an exemplary embodiment, the plumbing fixture fitting is a showering product for infusing material in a capsule into water flowing through the showering product. The showering product comprises a housing assembly, a flow assembly, and an infusion assembly. The housing assembly includes a housing body. The flow assembly includes an inlet, a non-infused flow path, an infusion chamber, and an infused flow path. The infusion assembly is operable to mount to the housing body. The infusion assembly is operable to receive non-infused water from and deliver infused water to the infusion chamber. The infusion assembly includes a retaining subassembly, a sealing subassembly, and a dilution subassembly. The retaining subassembly is operable to receive and fully retain a capsule assembly in the retaining subassembly. The sealing subassembly is operable to create a high pressure seal between the sealing subassembly and the capsule assembly. The dilution subassembly is operable to permit a flow of water through the dilution subassembly and the capsule assembly. The sealing subassembly is not operable to create the high pressure seal until the retaining subassembly has fully retained the capsule assembly. The dilution subassembly is not operable to permit the flow of water until the sealing subassembly has created the high pressure seal.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of a plumbing fixture fitting for delivering encapsulated material in a water stream, including a housing assembly, a spray assembly, a flow assembly, a capsule assembly, and an infusion assembly, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0009] Figures 2a-2e are views of the plumbing fixture fitting of Figure 1 - Figure 2a is a side view, Figure 2b is a top view, Figure 2c is a bottom view, Figure 2d is a rear view, and Figure 2e is a front view;

[0010] Figures 3a-3d are views of the plumbing fixture fitting of Figure 1 - Figure 3a is a front view, Figure 3b is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A in Figure 3a, Figure 3c is a top view, and Figure 3d is a cross-sectional view taken along the line B-B in Figure 3c;

[0011] Figures 4a-4e are views of the plumbing fixture fitting of Figure 1 with the housing assembly removed - Figure 4a is a side view, Figure 4b is a top view, Figure 4c is a bottom view, Figure 4d is a rear view, and Figure 4e is a front view;

[0012] Figures 5a-5d are views of the plumbing fixture fitting of Figure 1 with the housing assembly removed - Figure 5a is a front view, Figure 5b is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A in Figure 5a, Figure 5c is a top view, and Figure 5d is a cross-sectional view taken along the line B-B in Figure 5c; [0013] Figures 6a-6e are views of a first flow subassembly of the flow assembly of

Figure 1 - Figure 6a is a top perspective view, Figure 6b is a bottom perspective view, Figure 6c is a bottom perspective view, Figure 6d is a bottom perspective view, and Figure 6e is a bottom perspective view;

[0014] Figures 7a-7e are views of a second flow subassembly of the flow assembly of

Figure 1 - Figure 7a is a top perspective view, Figure 7b is a top perspective view, Figure 7c is a top perspective view, Figure 7d is a bottom perspective view, and Figure 7e is a side view;

[0015] Figures 8a-8d are views of an outer retainer of a retaining subassembly of the infusion assembly of Figure 1 - Figure 8a is a top perspective view, Figure 8b is a bottom perspective view, Figure 8c is a bottom perspective view, and Figure 8d is a bottom perspective view;

[0016] Figures 9a-9d are views of an inner retainer of the retaining subassembly of the infusion assembly of Figure 1 - Figure 9a is a top perspective view, Figure 9b is a top perspective view, Figure 9c is a bottom perspective view, and Figure 9d is a side view;

[0017] Figures lOa-lOd are views of a retainer base of the retaining subassembly of the infusion assembly of Figure 1 - Figure 10a is a top perspective view, Figure 10b is a top perspective view, Figure 10c is a top perspective view, and Figure lOd is a bottom perspective view;

[0018] Figures 1 la-1 Id are views of a chassis base of the retaining subassembly of the infusion assembly of Figure 1 - Figure 11a is a top perspective view, Figure lib is a top perspective view, Figure 1 lc is a bottom perspective view, and Figure 1 Id is a side view; [0019] Figures 12a-12d are views of a sealing platform of a sealing subassembly of the infusion assembly of Figure 1 - Figure 12a is a top perspective view, Figure 12b is a top perspective view, Figure 12c is a bottom perspective view, and Figure 12d is a side view;

[0020] Figures 13a-13d are views of a piercing platform of a dilution subassembly of the infusion assembly of Figure 1 - Figure 13a is a top perspective view, Figure 13b is a top perspective view, Figure 13c is a bottom perspective view, and Figure 13d is a side view;

[0021] Figures 14a-14d are views of a dilution disk of the dilution subassembly of the infusion assembly of Figure 1 - Figure 14a is a top perspective view, Figure 14b is a top perspective view, Figure 14c is a bottom perspective view, and Figure 14d is a side view;

[0022] Figures 15a-15d are views of a dilution actuator and the dilution disk of the dilution subassembly of the infusion assembly of Figure 1 - Figure 15a is a top perspective view, Figure 15b is a top perspective view, Figure 15c is a bottom perspective view, and Figure 15d is a bottom perspective view;

[0023] Figures 16a-16b are views of the plumbing fixture fitting of Figure 1 in a fully opened state - Figure 16a is a cross-sectional view taken along a longitudinal axis of the plumbing fixture fitting, and Figure 16b is a cross-sectional view taken along a line transverse to the longitudinal axis of the plumbing fixture fitting;

[0024] Figures 17a- 17b are views of the plumbing fixture fitting of Figure 1 in a low pressure seal state - Figure 17a is a cross-sectional view taken along the longitudinal axis of the plumbing fixture fitting, and Figure 17b is a cross-sectional view taken along the line transverse to the longitudinal axis of the plumbing fixture fitting;

[0025] Figures 18a-18b are views of the plumbing fixture fitting of Figure 1 in a capsule piercing state - Figure 18a is a cross-sectional view taken along the longitudinal axis of the plumbing fixture fitting, and Figure 18b is a cross-sectional view taken along the line transverse to the longitudinal axis of the plumbing fixture fitting;

[0026] Figures 19a-19b are views of the plumbing fixture fitting of Figure 1 in a fully closed with high pressure seal state - Figure 19a is a cross-sectional view taken along the longitudinal axis of the plumbing fixture fitting, and Figure 19b is a cross-sectional view taken along the line transverse to the longitudinal axis of the plumbing fixture fitting; and [0027] Figure 20 is a schematic illustration of a plumbing fixture fitting for delivering encapsulated material in a water stream, including a housing assembly, a flow assembly, a capsule assembly, and an infusion assembly, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] The present invention provides a dispensing device or plumbing fixture fitting for dispensing or delivering encapsulated material in a water stream. In an exemplary embodiment, the plumbing fixture fitting is a showering product for infusing material in a capsule into water flowing through the showering product. In an exemplary embodiment, the plumbing fixture fitting is a handheld shower. In another exemplary embodiment, the plumbing fixture fitting is a fixed showerhead. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the plumbing fixture fitting could be a showering system, a shower rail, a body spray, a tub spout, or any other showering product, a faucet, a side spray, or any other plumbing fixture fitting.

[0029] Exemplary embodiments of plumbing fixture fittings 10, 10’ of the present invention are shown in detail in Figures 1-20.

[0030] In the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-19b, the plumbing fixture fitting 10 is a showering product and, more particularly, a handheld shower. In the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-19b, the plumbing fixture fitting 10 includes a wand or housing assembly 12, a spray assembly 14, a waterway or flow assembly 16, a capsule assembly 18, and an infusion module or assembly 20.

[0031] An exemplary embodiment of the housing assembly 12 is shown in detail in

Figures l-5d. In the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-5d, the housing assembly 12 includes a housing body 22 and a housing faceplate 24. The housing body 22 includes a housing head 26 and a housing handle 28. The housing faceplate 24 includes a plurality of housing spray openings 30.

[0032] An exemplary embodiment of the spray assembly 14 is shown in detail in Figures l-5d. In the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-5d, the spray assembly 14 includes a spray engine subassembly 32 and a spray mode selection actuator 34. In an exemplary embodiment, the spray engine subassembly 32 includes a spray face, a rotor, a nubbin plate, and a manifold. [0033] An exemplary embodiment of the flow assembly 16 is shown in detail in Figures l-7e. In the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-7e, the flow assembly 16 includes a first flow subassembly 36 and a second flow subassembly 38. The first flow subassembly 36 and the second flow subassembly 38 form an inlet 40, a non-infused flow path 42, an infusion chamber 44, an infused flow path 46, and a spray selection chamber 48. The inlet 40 is operable to receive water from a supply hose. From the inlet 40, the water flows through the non-infused flow path 42, the infusion chamber 44, the infused flow path 46, and the spray mode selection chamber 48. The water is then delivered to the spray assembly 14 and dispensed from the plumbing fixture fitting 10. If the plumbing fixture fitting 10 is in an infusion mode, as water flows through the infusion chamber 44, some of the water flows through the capsule assembly 18 and the water is infused with material in the capsule assembly 18. If the plumbing fixture fitting 10 is not in the infusion mode, as water flows through the infusion chamber 44, none of the water flows through the capsule assembly 18 and the water is not infused with material in the capsule assembly 18.

[0034] An exemplary embodiment of the capsule assembly 18 is shown in detail in

Figures l-5d and 16a-19b. In the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-5d and 16a-19b, the capsule assembly 18 includes a capsule body 50 and a capsule cover 52. In the illustrated embodiment, the capsule body 50 includes a capsule dome 54, a capsule lip 56, and a capsule opening 58. In the illustrated embodiment, the capsule cover 52 encloses and seals the capsule opening 58. In an exemplary embodiment, the capsule cover 52 is made from foil. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the capsule cover 52 could be made from other materials, so long as the other material is operable to enclose and seal the capsule opening 58 and be pierced.

[0035] In an exemplary embodiment, the capsule assembly 18 includes essential oils that provide aromatherapy. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the capsule assembly 18 could include other materials, such as body wash, cleaning products, and color additives. Moreover, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the capsule assembly 18 could include material in other forms, so long as the material can be mixed or infused with water and dispensed, such as other liquids, gels, and crystals.

[0036] An exemplary embodiment of the infusion assembly 20 is shown in detail in

Figures l-5d and 8a-19b. In an exemplary embodiment, the infusion assembly 20 is integrally formed with the plumbing fixture fitting. In an exemplary embodiment, the infusion assembly 20 is added to an existing plumbing fixture fitting. In the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-5d and 8a- 19b, the infusion assembly 20 includes a retaining subassembly 60, a sealing subassembly 62, and a dilution subassembly 64.

[0037] An exemplary embodiment of the retaining subassembly 60 is shown in detail in

Figures l-5d, 8a-lld, and 16a-19b. In the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-5d, 8a-lld, and 16a- 19b, the retaining subassembly 60 includes an outer retainer 66, an inner retainer 68, a retainer base 70, and a chassis 72.

[0038] An exemplary embodiment of the outer retainer 66 is shown in detail in Figures l-5d, 8a-8d, and 16a-19b. In the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-5d, 8a-8d, and 16a-19b, the outer retainer 66 includes an outer retainer ring 74, an outer retainer ledge 76, and an outer retainer opening 78. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer retainer ring 74 includes a plurality of tabs 80 extending radially inwardly from an inner surface of the outer retainer ring 74. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer retainer ring 74 includes a plurality of undercuts 82 in the inner surface of the outer retainer ring 74. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer retainer ring 74 is generally cylindrical shaped. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer retainer ledge 76 extends upwardly and inwardly from an upper surface of the outer retainer ring 74. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer retainer ledge 76 includes two opposing tabs 84 extending axially downwardly from a lower surface of the outer retainer ledge 76. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer retainer ledge 76 is generally U-shaped. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer retainer opening 78 is generally U-shaped.

[0039] An exemplary embodiment of the inner retainer 68 is shown in detail in Figures l-5d, 9a-9d, and 16a-19b. In the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-5d, 9a-9d, and 16a-19b, the inner retainer 68 includes an inner retainer ring 86, an inner retainer ledge 88, and an inner retainer opening 90. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner retainer ring 86 includes an outer wall 92 and an inner wall 94. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner retainer ring 86 includes two opposing tabs 96 extending between and connecting the outer wall 92 and the inner wall 94. In the illustrated embodiment, two generally semi-circular shaped openings 98 extend between the outer wall 92 and the inner wall 94. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner wall 94 of the inner retainer ring 86 includes a notch 100 extending into a lower surface of the inner wall 94. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner retainer ring 86 is generally cylindrical shaped. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner retainer ledge 88 extends upwardly and inwardly from an upper surface of the inner wall 94 of the inner retainer ring 86. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner retainer ledge 88 is generally U-shaped. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner retainer opening 90 is generally circular shaped.

[0040] An exemplary embodiment of the retainer base 70 is shown in detail in Figures l-5d, lOa-lOd, and 16a-19b. In the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-5d, lOa-lOd, and 16a- 19b, the retainer base 70 includes a retainer base ring 102 and a retainer base opening 104. In the illustrated embodiment, at least a portion of an inner surface of the retainer base ring 102 includes threads 106. In the illustrated embodiment, the retainer base ring 102 includes a plurality of notches 108 extending into an upper surface of the retainer base ring 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the retainer base ring 102 includes a plurality of snap tabs 110 between at least some of the plurality of notches 108 in the upper surface of the retainer base ring 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the retainer base ring 102 includes a tab 112 extending axially downwardly from a lower surface of the retainer base ring 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the retainer base ring 102 is generally cylindrical shaped. In the illustrated embodiment, the retainer base opening 104 is generally circular shaped. [0041] An exemplary embodiment of the chassis 72 is shown in detail in Figures l-5d,

1 la-1 Id, and 16a-19b. In the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-5d, 1 la-1 Id, and 16a-19b, the chassis 72 includes a chassis base 114 and a chassis ring 116. In the illustrated embodiment, the chassis base 114 is radially inward of the chassis ring 116. In the illustrated embodiment, the chassis base 114 is integrally connected to the chassis ring 116 via two connectors 118 forming two arc-shaped openings 120 between the chassis base 114 and the chassis ring 116. In the illustrated embodiment, an upper surface of the chassis base 114 includes a piercing platform spring opening 122. In the illustrated embodiment, a lower surface of the chassis base 114 includes an outer wall 124 and an inner wall 126 extending axially downwardly from the lower surface forming a central portion 128 (inside the inner wall 126) and a groove 130 (between the inner wall 126 and the outer wall 124). In the illustrated embodiment, the chassis base 114 includes a chassis base ledge 132 between the upper surface and the lower surface of the chassis base 114. In the illustrated embodiment, the chassis base ledge 132 includes two piercing barb holders 134. In the illustrated embodiment, the chassis base 114 includes two flow paths 136 through the chassis base 114, including through the two piercing barb holders 134. In the illustrated embodiment, one of the flow paths 136 extends through the central portion 128 of the lower surface of the chassis base 114 and through one of the piercing barb holders 134, and the other of the flow paths 136 extends through the groove 130 in the lower surface of the chassis base 114 and through the other of the piercing barb holders 134. In the illustrated embodiment, the chassis ring 116 includes an outer wall 138 and an inner wall 140 forming a groove 142 (between the outer wall 138 and the inner wall 140). In the illustrated embodiment, a height of the outer wall 138 is greater than a height of the inner wall 140. In the illustrated embodiment, at least a portion of an outer surface of the outer wall 138 of the chassis ring 116 includes threads 144. In the illustrated embodiment, an inner surface of the outer wall 138 of the chassis ring 116 includes a plurality of grooves 146 extending longitudinally in the inner surface. In the illustrated embodiment, the chassis ring 116 is generally cylindrical shaped.

[0042] An exemplary embodiment of the sealing subassembly 62 is shown in detail in

Figures l-5d, 12a-12d, and 16a-19b. In the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-5d, 12a-12d, and 16a- 19b, the sealing subassembly 62 includes a seal platform 144, a seal platform spring 146, a capsule seal 148, a seal platform O-ring 150, and a weld ring 152.

[0043] An exemplary embodiment of the seal platform 144 is shown in detail in Figures l-5d, 12a-12d, and 16a-19b. In the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-5d, 12a-12d, and 16a- 19b, the seal platform 144 includes a seal platform upper portion 154, a seal platform lower portion 156, a seal platform flange 158, and a seal platform opening 160. In the illustrated embodiment, the seal platform upper portion 154 is stepped inwardly from the seal platform lower portion 156. In the illustrated embodiment, an upper surface of the seal platform upper portion 154 includes a capsule seal groove 162. In the illustrated embodiment, an outer surface of the seal platform upper portion 154 includes a tab 164 extending radially outwardly from the outer surface. In the illustrated embodiment, the seal platform upper portion 154 is generally cylindrical shaped. In the illustrated embodiment, an outer surface of the seal platform lower portion 156 includes a plurality of tabs 166 extending radially outwardly from the outer surface. In the illustrated embodiment, the seal platform lower portion 156 is generally cylindrical shaped. In the illustrated embodiment, the seal platform flange 158 extends radially outwardly from an interface between the seal platform upper portion 154 and the seal platform lower portion 156. In the illustrated embodiment, the seal platform flange 158 includes two opposing ramped tabs 168 extending axially upwardly from an upper surface of the seal platform flange 158.

[0044] An exemplary embodiment of the dilution subassembly 64 is shown in detail in

Figures l-5d, 13a-15d, and 16a-19b. In the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-5d, 13a-15d, and 16a- 19b, the dilution subassembly 64 includes a piercing platform 170, piercing barbs 172, four piercing barb O-rings 174, a piercing platform spring 176, a dilution disk 178, two dilution disk upper seals 180, one dilution disk lower seal 182, two cup seals 184, two cup seal springs 186, and a dilution actuator 188.

[0045] An exemplary embodiment of the piercing platform 170 is shown in detail in

Figures l-5d, 13a-13d, and 16a-19b. In the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-5d, 13a-13d, and 16a- 19b, the piercing platform 170 includes a piercing platform upper portion 190 and a piercing platform lower portion 192. In the illustrated embodiment, the piercing platform upper portion 190 is stepped inwardly from the piercing platform lower portion 192 forming a piercing platform ledge 194. In the illustrated embodiment, the piercing platform upper portion 190 includes an upper end 196. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper end 196 is generally closed. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper end 196 includes two piercing barb openings 198 extending through the upper end 196. In the illustrated embodiment, a lower surface of the upper end 196 includes two bosses 200 and a post 202 extending axially downwardly from the lower surface. In the illustrated embodiment, the two bosses 200 extending from the lower surface are aligned with the two piercing barb openings 198 extending through the upper end 196. In the illustrated embodiment, the piercing platform upper portion 190 is generally cylindrical shaped. In the illustrated embodiment, the piercing platform lower portion 192 includes a sidewall 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the sidewall 204 includes two rectangular shaped cutouts 206 in a lower surface of the sidewall 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the sidewall 204 includes an undercut 208 in the lower surface of the sidewall 204 between the cutouts 206. In the illustrated embodiment, the piercing platform lower portion 192 is generally cylindrical shaped. In the illustrated embodiment, the piercing platform ledge 194 includes two opposing arc shaped openings 210.

[0046] An exemplary embodiment of the dilution disk 178 is shown in detail in Figures l-5d, 14a-15d, and 16a-19b. In the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-5d, 14a-15d, and 16a-19b, the dilution disk 178 includes a dilution disk sidewall 212 and a dilution disk upper end 214. In the illustrated embodiment, an upper surface of the dilution disk sidewall 212 includes two opposing barbed tabs 216 extending axially upwardly from the upper surface. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper surface of the dilution disk sidewall 212 includes two opposing winged tabs 218 extending radially outwardly from the upper surface. In the illustrated embodiment, the dilution disk upper end 214 is generally closed. In the illustrated embodiment, the dilution disk upper end 214 includes a plurality of dilution openings 220 extending through the dilution disk upper end 214. In the illustrated embodiment, an upper surface of the dilution disk upper end 214 includes an outer wall 222 and an inner wall 224 extending axially upwardly from the upper surface forming a central portion 226 (inside the inner wall 224), an inner groove 228 (between the inner wall 224 and the outer wall 222), and an outer groove 230 (between the outer wall 222 and the dilution disk sidewall 212). In the illustrated embodiment, at least some of the dilution openings 220 extend through the central portion 226 and at least some of the dilution openings 220 extend through the inner groove 228. In the illustrated embodiment, the dilution disk 178 is generally cylindrical shaped. [0047] An exemplary embodiment of the dilution actuator 188 is shown in detail in

Figures l-5d, 15a-15d, and 16a-19b. In the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-5d, 15a-15d, and 16a-19b, the dilution actuator 188 includes a dilution lever 232 and a dilution linkage 234. In the illustrated embodiment, the dilution linkage 234 includes a first arm 236 and a second arm 238. In the illustrated embodiment, a first end 240 of the first arm 236 is operable to be connected to the dilution lever 232. In the illustrated embodiment, a second end 242 of the first arm 236 includes a wall 244 extending axially upwardly from the second end 242.

[0048] The spatial relationship and interaction of the components in the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-19b as assembled will now be described.

[0049] The chassis 72 is located above the dilution disk 178. More specifically, the lower surface of the chassis base 114 interfaces with the upper surface of the dilution disk upper end 214. The barbed tabs 216 and the winged tabs 218 on the upper surface of the dilution disk sidewall 212 extend in the arc-shaped openings 120 between the chassis base 114 and the chassis ring 116. One of the dilution disk upper seals 180 is received in the outer groove 230 in the dilution disk upper end 214 and in the groove 130 in the lower surface of the chassis base 114. The other of the dilution disk upper seals 180 is received in the inner groove 228 in the dilution disk upper end 214 and in the central portion 128 of the lower surface of the chassis base 114. The piercing barbs 172 are received in the piercing barb holders 134 in the chassis base ledge 132. The dilution openings 220 in the central portion 226 of the dilution disk upper end 214 are in fluid communication with the flow path 136 through the central portion 128 of the lower surface of the chassis base 114, including one piercing barb 172. The dilution openings 220 in the inner groove 228 of the dilution disk upper end 214 are in fluid communication with the flow path 136 through the groove 130 in the lower surface of the chassis base 114, including the other piercing barb 172.

[0050] The piercing platform 170 is located above and inside the chassis 72. More specifically, the lower surface of the upper end 196 of the piercing platform upper portion 190 is spaced above the upper surface of the chassis base 114. The piercing barbs 172 are at least partially received in the bosses 200 on the lower surface of the upper end 196 of the piercing platform upper portion 190 and are aligned with the piercing barb openings 198 in the upper end 196 of the piercing platform upper portion 190. The piercing platform spring 176 is received in the piercing platform spring opening 122 in the upper surface of the chassis base 114 on one end and on the post 202 on the lower surface of the upper end 196 of the piercing platform upper portion 190 on the other end. The piercing platform spring 176 is fully extended. The lower surface of the sidewall 204 of the piercing platform lower portion 192 between the cutouts 206 in the lower surface of the sidewall 204 is received in the openings 120 between the chassis base 114 and the chassis ring 116. The barbed tabs 216 on the upper surface of the dilution disk sidewall 212 interface with the undercut 208 in the lower surface of the sidewall 204 of the piercing platform lower portion 192.

[0051] The seal platform spring 146 is located inside the chassis ring 116. More specifically, the seal platform spring 146 is located inside the groove 142 between the outer wall 138 and the inner wall 140 of the chassis ring 116. The seal platform 144 is located above and inside the chassis 72 above the seal platform spring 146. More specifically, the seal platform lower portion 156 is partially located inside the chassis ring 116. The tabs 166 on the outer surface of the seal platform lower portion 156 partially interface with the grooves 146 in the inner surface of the outer wall 138 of the chassis ring 116. The seal platform spring 146 is partially compressed.

[0052] The retainer base 70 is located around the chassis 72, the piercing platform 170, and the seal platform 144. The threads 106 on the inner surface of the retainer base ring 102 are starting to engage the threads 144 on the outer surface of the outer wall 138 of the chassis ring 116.

[0053] The inner retainer 68 is located above the retainer base 70. More specifically, a lower surface of the outer wall 92 of the inner retainer ring 86 interfaces with the upper surface of the retainer base ring 102. The inner retainer 68 is located above the seal platform 144. More specifically, the lower surface of the inner wall 94 of the inner retainer ring 86 is spaced above the seal platform flange 158. The tab 164 extending from the outer surface of the seal platform upper portion 154 is partially received in the notch 100 extending into the lower surface of the inner wall 94 of the inner retainer ring 86.

[0054] The outer retainer 66 is located above the inner retainer 68 and around the retainer base 70. More specifically, the tabs 80 extending from the inner surface of the outer retainer ring 74 are received in the notches 108 extending into the upper surface of the retainer base ring 102. The snap tabs 110 in the upper surface of the retainer base ring 102 are received in the undercuts 82 in the inner surface of the outer retainer ring 74. The tabs 84 extending from the lower surface of the outer retainer ledge 76 are received in the openings 98 extending between the outer wall 92 and the inner wall 94 of the inner retainer ring 86, interface with the ramped tabs 168 extending from the upper surface of the seal platform flange 158, and interface with the tabs 96 connecting the outer wall 92 and the inner wall 94 of the inner retainer ring 86. The outer retainer opening 78 is aligned with the inner retainer opening 90. [0055] The operation of the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-19b will now be described. During operation, the infusion assembly 20 generally moves between five states: (1) fully opened, (2) low pressure seal, (3) capsule piercing, (4) fully closed with high pressure seal, and (5) flowing water.

[0056] In the fully opened state, as illustrated in Figures 16a- 16b, the infusion assembly

20 is in a fully open position and is operable to receive a capsule assembly 18. The outer retainer 66, the inner retainer 68, and the retainer base 70 are in an upmost position relative to the chassis 72. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer retainer 66 is approximately 0.300 inches above the head of the shell. The tabs 84 extending from the lower surface of the outer retainer ledge 76 interface with the ramped tabs 168 extending from the upper surface of the seal platform flange 158 causing the seal platform 144 to be pushed in a downmost position and the seal platform spring 146 to be partially compressed. The capsule seal 148 is recessed in the outer retainer 66 and the inner retainer 68 to allow a capsule assembly 18 to be inserted into the outer retainer opening 78 and the inner retainer opening 90. The piercing platform spring 176 is fully extended causing the piercing platform 170 to be pushed in an upmost position. The piercing barbs 172 are recessed below the upper end 196 of the piercing platform upper portion 190. The dilution lever 232 and the dilution disk 178 are in an off position so water is not flowing through the infusion assembly 20.

[0057] While the infusion assembly 20 is in the fully opened state, a capsule assembly 18 is inserted into the outer retainer opening 78 and the inner retainer opening 90. Once inserted, an upper surface of the capsule lip 56 is located below a lower surface of the inner retainer ledge 88 and the lower surface of the outer retainer ledge 76. A lower surface of the capsule lip 56 is located above the capsule seal 148. The capsule cover 52 is located above an upper surface of the upper end 196 of the piercing platform upper portion 190. The circumference of the upper surface of the capsule lip 56 is engaged by the outer retainer ledge 76 and the inner retainer ledge 88 around approximately 180 degrees. The outer retainer 66 is rotated to approximately 45 degrees from the fully opened position to move the infusion assembly 20 from the fully opened state to the low pressure seal state.

[0058] In the low pressure seal state, as illustrated in Figures 17a-17b, the outer retainer

66 and the inner retainer 68 have received the capsule assembly 18 and the capsule seal 148 has created a low pressure seal against the lower surface of the capsule lip 56. As the outer retainer 66 is rotated, the retainer base 70 also rotates due to the interface between the outer retainer 66 and the retainer base 70. The threads 106 on the inner surface of the retainer base ring 102 further engage the threads 144 on the outer surface of the outer wall 138 of the chassis ring 116 causing the retainer base 70 and also the outer retainer 66 to move downwardly. The inner retainer 68, which is between the outer retainer 66 and the retainer base 70, also moves downwardly. However, the inner retainer 68 does not rotate with the outer retainer 66 and the retainer base 70 due to the interface between the inner retainer 68 and the seal platform 144. The tabs 84 extending from the lower surface of the outer retainer ledge 76 have moved down the ramped tabs 168 extending from the upper surface of the seal platform flange 158 and are now above the upper surface of the seal platform flange 158 and no longer interface with the tabs 96 connecting the outer wall 92 and the inner wall 94 of the inner retainer ring 86. The seal platform spring 146 is now able to further extend and the seal platform 144 is pushed further upwardly by the seal platform spring 146. The upper surface of the seal platform flange 158 now interfaces with the lower surface of the inner wall 94 of the inner retainer ring 86, the tab 164 extending from the outer surface of the seal platform upper portion 154 is fully received in the notch 100 in the lower surface of the inner wall 94 of the inner retainer ring 86, and the ramped tabs 168 extending from the upper surface of the seal platform flange 158 interface with the tabs 96 connecting the outer wall 92 and the inner wall 94 of the inner retainer ring 86. The seal platform 144 is moved upwardly a greater distance than the outer retainer 66, the inner retainer 68, and the retainer base 70 are moved downwardly. In an exemplary embodiment, the seal platform 144 is moved upwardly approximately 0.110 inches. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer retainer 66, the inner retainer 68, and the retainer base 70 are moved downwardly approximately 0.085 inches. The capsule seal 148 is compressed against the lower surface of the capsule lip 56 creating the low pressure seal. The piercing platform 170 is moved downwardly and the piercing platform spring 176 has started to compress. The piercing barbs 172 are still recessed below the upper end 196 of the piercing platform upper portion 190. The dilution lever 232 and the dilution disk 178 are still in the off position so water is not flowing through the dilution assembly. The circumference of the upper surface of the capsule lip 56 is now engaged by the outer retainer ledge 76 and the inner retainer ledge 88 around approximately 225 degrees. The outer retainer 66 is rotated to approximately 90 degrees from the fully opened position to move the infusion assembly 20 from the low pressure seal state to the capsule piercing state. [0059] In the capsule piercing state, as illustrated in Figures 18a- 18b, the piercing barbs

172 have pierced the capsule cover 52. As the outer retainer 66 is further rotated, the retainer base 70 again rotates due to the interface between the outer retainer 66 and the retainer base 70. The threads 106 on the inner surface of the retainer base ring 102 further engage the threads 144 on the outer surface of the outer wall 138 of the chassis ring 116 causing the retainer base 70 and also the outer retainer 66 to move further downwardly. The inner retainer 68, which is between the outer retainer 66 and the retainer base 70, also moves further downwardly. However, the inner retainer 68 still does not rotate with the outer retainer 66 and the retainer base 70 due to the interface between the inner retainer 68 and the seal platform 144. The tabs 84 extending from the lower surface of the outer retainer ledge 76 are still above the upper surface of the seal platform flange 158. The upper surface of the seal platform flange 158 still interfaces with the lower surface of the inner wall 94 of the inner retainer ring 86, the tab 164 extending from the outer surface of the seal platform upper portion 154 is still fully received in the notch 100 in the lower surface of the inner wall 94 of the inner retainer ring 86, and the ramped tabs 168 extending from the upper surface of the seal platform flange 158 still interface with the tabs 96 connecting the outer wall 92 and the inner wall 94 of the inner retainer ring 86. As the inner retainer 68 is moved downwardly, the seal platform 144 is moved downwardly due to the interface between the inner retainer 68 and the seal platform 144 and the seal platform spring 146 is compressed. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer retainer 66, the inner retainer 68, the retainer base 70, and the seal platform 144 are moved downwardly approximately 0.170 inches. The capsule seal 148 is still compressed against the lower surface of the capsule lip 56 maintaining the low pressure seal. The piercing platform 170 is moved further downwardly and the piercing platform spring 176 has further compressed. The piercing barbs 172 are now protruding above the upper end 196 of the piercing platform upper portion 190 and have started to pierce the capsule cover 52. The dilution lever 232 and the dilution disk 178 are still in the off position so water is not flowing through the dilution assembly. The circumference of the upper surface of the capsule lip 56 is now engaged by the outer retainer ledge 76 and the inner retainer ledge 88 around approximately 270 degrees. The outer retainer 66 is rotated to approximately 160 degrees from the fully opened position to move the infusion assembly 20 from the capsule piercing state to the high pressure seal state. [0060] In the high pressure seal state, as illustrated in Figures 19a- 19b, the piercing barbs

172 have completely pierced the capsule cover 52 and the capsule seal 148 has created a high pressure seal against the lower surface of the capsule lip 56. As the outer retainer 66 is further rotated, the retainer base 70 again rotates due to the interface between the outer retainer 66 and the retainer base 70. The threads 106 on the inner surface of the retainer base ring 102 further engage the threads 144 on the outer surface of the outer wall 138 of the chassis ring 116 causing the retainer base 70 and also the outer retainer 66 to move further downwardly. The inner retainer 68, which is between the outer retainer 66 and the retainer base 70, also moves further downwardly. However, the inner retainer 68 still does not rotate with the outer retainer 66 and the retainer base 70 due to the interface between the inner retainer 68 and the seal platform 144. The tabs 84 extending from the lower surface of the outer retainer ledge 76 are still above the upper surface of the seal platform flange 158. The upper surface of the seal platform flange 158 still interfaces with the lower surface of the inner wall 94 of the inner retainer ring 86, the tab 164 extending from the outer surface of the seal platform upper portion 154 is still fully received in the notch 100 in the lower surface of the inner wall 94 of the inner retainer ring 86, and the ramped tabs 168 extending from the upper surface of the seal platform flange 158 still interface with the tabs 96 connecting the outer wall 92 and the inner wall 94 of the inner retainer ring 86. As the inner retainer 68 is moved further downwardly, the seal platform 144 is moved further downwardly due to the interface between the inner retainer 68 and the seal platform 144 and the seal platform spring 146 is further compressed. A lower surface of the seal platform flange 158 interfaces with the upper surface of the outer wall 138 of the chassis ring 116. The outer retainer 66, the inner retainer 68, and the retainer base 70 are moved downwardly a greater distance than the sealing platform 144 is moved downwardly. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer retainer 66, the inner retainer 68, and the retainer base 70 are moved downwardly approximately 0.300 inches. In an exemplary embodiment, the seal platform 144 is moved downwardly approximately 0.280 inches. The piercing platform 170 is moved further downwardly and the piercing platform spring 176 has further compressed. The piercing barbs 172 are now fully protruding above the upper end 196 of the piercing platform upper portion 190 and have completely pierced the capsule cover 52. The capsule seal 148 is further compressed against the lower surface of the capsule lip 56 creating the high pressure seal. The dilution lever 232 and the dilution disk 178 are still in the off position so water is not flowing through the dilution assembly. The circumference of the upper surface of the capsule lip 56 is now engaged by the outer retainer ledge 76 and the inner retainer ledge 88 around approximately 340 degrees.

[0061] In the flowing water state, as illustrated in Figures 19a-19b, the dilution lever 232 can now be moved from the off position to an on position causing the dilution disk 178 to move from an off position to an on position permitting water to flow through the infusion assembly 20 to the capsule assembly 18. The dilution lever 232 can be moved between dilution levels in the on position or back to the off position.

[0062] In the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-19b, the infusion assembly 20 includes a dilution lock and a capsule retention lock.

[0063] In an exemplary embodiment, the dilution lock is operable to prevent movement of the dilution lever 232 to the on position (at any dilution level) unless the piercing platform 170 is in the downmost position. An exemplary embodiment of the dilution lock is shown in detail in Figures 1 and 13a-14d. In the illustrated embodiment of Figures 1 and 13a-14d, the dilution lock includes the winged tabs 218 extending from the upper surface of the dilution disk sidewall 212 and the sidewall 204 of the piercing platform lower portion 192. When the piercing platform 170 is not in the downmost position, the winged tabs 218 extending from the upper surface of the dilution disk sidewall 212 interface with the sidewall 204 of the piercing platform lower portion 192 and prevent the dilution disk 178 from being rotated. Once the piercing platform 170 has been moved to the downmost position, the winged tabs 218 extending from the upper surface of the dilution disk sidewall 212 no longer interface with the sidewall 204 of the piercing platform lower portion 192 and the dilution disk 178 can be rotated.

[0064] In an exemplary embodiment, the capsule retention lock is operable to prevent removal of the capsule assembly 18 from the infusion assembly 20 while the dilution lever 232 is in the on position (at any dilution level). An exemplary embodiment of the capsule retention lock is shown in detail in Figures 1, lOa-lOd, and 15a-15d. In the illustrated embodiment of Figures 1, lOa-lOd, and 15a-15d, the capsule retention lock includes the tab 112 extending from the lower surface of the retainer base 70 and the wall 244 on the second end 242 of the first arm 236 of the dilution linkage 234. When the dilution lever 232 is moved to the on position (at any dilution level), the second end 242 of the first arm 236 of the dilution linkage 234 moves to a position where the tab 112 extending from the lower surface of the retainer base 70 interfaces with the wall 244 on the second end 242 of the first arm 236 of the dilution linkage 234 and prevents the retainer base 70 (and the outer retainer 66 connected to it) from being rotated upwardly. Once the dilution lever 232 has been moved back to the off position, the second end 242 of the first arm 236 of the dilution linkage 234 moves to a position where the tab 112 extending from the lower surface of the retainer base 70 no longer interfaces with the wall 244 on the second end 242 of the first arm 236 of the dilution linkage 234 and the retainer base 70 (and the outer retainer 66 connected to it) can be rotated upwardly. [0065] In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 20, the plumbing fixture fitting 10’ includes a housing assembly 12’, a flow assembly 16’, a capsule assembly 18’, and an infusion assembly 20’. The housing assembly 12’ includes a housing body 22’. The flow assembly 16’ includes an inlet 40’, a non-infused flow path 42’, and infusion chamber 44’, and an infused flow path 46’. The infusion assembly 20’ includes a retaining subassembly 60’, a sealing subassembly 62’, and a dilution subassembly 64’. The function of the components of the plumbing fixture fitting 10’ are similar to the function of the components of the plumbing fixture fitting 10.

[0066] In an exemplary embodiment, the plumbing fixture fitting 10, 10’ is a showering product for infusing material in a capsule into water flowing through the shower product. In an exemplary embodiment, the showering product includes the housing assembly 12, 12’, the flow assembly, 14, 14’, and the infusion assembly 20, 20’. In an exemplary embodiment, the housing assembly 12, 12’ includes the housing body 22, 22’. In an exemplary embodiment, the flow assembly 14, 14’ includes the inlet 40, 40’, the non-infused flow path 42, 42’, the infusion chamber 44, 44’, and the infused flow path 46, 46’.

[0067] In an exemplary embodiment, the infusion assembly 20, 20’ is operable to mount to the housing body 22, 22’. In an exemplary embodiment, the infusion assembly 20, 20’ is operable to receive non-infused water from and deliver infused water to the infusion chamber 44, 44’. In an exemplary embodiment, the infusion assembly 20, 20’ includes the retaining subassembly 60, 60’, the sealing subassembly 62, 62’, and the dilution subassembly 64, 64’. The retaining subassembly 60, 60’ is operable to receive and partially retain the capsule assembly 18, 18’ in the retaining subassembly 60, 60’. The retaining subassembly 60, 60’ is operable to fully retain the capsule assembly 18, 18’ in the retaining subassembly 60, 60’. The sealing subassembly 62, 62’ is operable to create the low pressure seal between the sealing subassembly 62, 62’ and the capsule assembly 18, 18’. The sealing subassembly 62, 62’ is operable to create the high pressure seal between the sealing subassembly 62, 62’ and the capsule assembly 18, 18’. The dilution subassembly 64, 64’ is operable to pierce the capsule assembly 18, 18’. The dilution subassembly 64, 64’ is operable to permit a flow of water through the dilution subassembly 64, 64’ and the capsule assembly 18, 18’. The sealing subassembly 62, 62’ is not operable to create the low pressure seal until the retaining subassembly 60, 60’ has partially retained the capsule assembly 18, 18’. The dilution subassembly 64, 64’ is not operable to pierce the capsule assembly 18, 18’ until the sealing subassembly 62, 62’ has created the low pressure seal. The sealing subassembly 62, 62’ is not operable to create the high pressure seal until the retaining subassembly 60, 60’ has fully retained the capsule assembly 18, 18’. The dilution subassembly 64, 64’ is not operable to permit the flow of water until the sealing subassembly 62, 62’ has created the high pressure seal.

[0068] In an exemplary embodiment, as the retaining subassembly 60, 60’ partially retains the capsule assembly 18, 18’, the sealing subassembly 62, 62’ is operable to move upwardly and the retaining subassembly 60, 60’ is operable to move downwardly. The sealing subassembly 62, 62’ is operable to move upwardly a greater distance than the retaining subassembly 60, 60’ is operable to move downwardly, creating the low pressure seal.

[0069] In an exemplary embodiment, as the retaining assembly 60, 60’ fully retains the capsule assembly 18, 18’, the sealing subassembly 62, 62’ is operable to move downwardly and the retaining subassembly 60, 60’ is operable to move downwardly. The retaining subassembly 60, 60’ is operable to move downwardly a greater distance than the sealing subassembly 62, 62’ is operable to move downwardly, creating the high pressure seal. [0070] In an exemplary embodiment, the infusion assembly 20 further includes the dilution lock. The dilution lock is operable to prevent movement of the dilution actuator 188 to the on position unless the capsule assembly 18 is fully retained.

[0071] In an exemplary embodiment, the infusion assembly 20 further includes the capsule retention lock. The capsule retention lock is operable to prevent removal of the capsule assembly 18 unless the dilution actuator 188 is in the off position.

[0072] In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining subassembly 60 includes the outer retainer 66. The outer retainer 66 includes the outer retainer ring 74, the outer retainer ledge 76, and the outer retainer opening 78. The outer retainer opening 78 is operable to receive the capsule assembly 18, including the capsule lip 56. The outer retainer ledge 76 is operable to interface with the capsule lip 56. The outer retainer ring 74 is operable to be rotated. The outer retainer 66 is operable to be moved downwardly during retention of the capsule assembly 18. [0073] In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining subassembly 60 includes the inner retainer 68. The inner retainer 68 includes the inner retainer ring 86, the inner retainer ledge 88, and the inner retainer opening 90. The inner retainer opening 90 is operable to receive the capsule assembly 18, including the capsule lip 56. The inner retainer ledge 88 is operable to interface with the capsule lip 56. The inner retainer ring 86 is not operable to be rotated. The inner retainer 68 is operable to be moved downwardly during retention of the capsule assembly 18.

[0074] In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining subassembly 60 includes the retainer base 70. The retainer base 70 includes the retainer base ring 102. The retainer base ring 102 is operable to be connected to the outer retainer 66. The retainer base ring 102 is operable to support the inner retainer 68. The retainer base ring 102 is operable to be connected to the chassis ring 116. The retainer base 70 is operable to be moved downwardly during retention of the capsule assembly 18.

[0075] In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining subassembly 60 includes the chassis

72. The chassis 72 includes the chassis base 114 and the chassis ring 116. The chassis base 114 is operable to support the piercing platform 170. The chassis ring 116 is operable to be connected to the retainer base 70. The chassis 72 is not operable to be moved during retention of the capsule assembly 18.

[0076] In an exemplary embodiment, the sealing subassembly 62 includes the seal platform 144. The sealing platform includes the seal platform upper portion 154, the seal platform lower portion 156, the seal platform flange 158, and the seal platform opening 160. The seal platform upper portion 154 is operable to support the capsule seal 148. The seal platform lower portion 156 is operable to interface with the chassis ring 116. The seal platform flange 158 is operable to interface with the outer retainer 66 and the inner retainer 68. The seal platform opening 160 is operable to receive the piercing platform upper portion 190. The seal platform 144 is operable to be moved upwardly and then downwardly during retention of the capsule assembly 18.

[0077] In an exemplary embodiment, the dilution subassembly 64 includes the piercing platform 170. The piercing platform 170 includes the piercing platform upper portion 190 and the piercing platform lower portion 192. The piercing platform upper portion 190 is operable to interface with the capsule cover 52. The piercing platform lower portion 192 is operable to interface with the dilution disk 178. The piercing platform 170 is operable to be moved downwardly during retention of the capsule assembly 18. [0078] In an exemplary embodiment, the dilution subassembly 64 includes the dilution disk 178. The dilution disk 178 includes the dilution disk sidewall 212 and the dilution disk upper end 214. The dilution disk sidewall 212 is operable to interface with the piercing platform lower portion 192. The dilution disk upper end 214 is operable to interface with the chassis base 114. The dilution disk 178 is operable to be rotated after retention of the capsule assembly 18. [0079] In an exemplary embodiment, the dilution subassembly 64 includes the dilution actuator 188. The dilution actuator 188 includes the dilution lever 232 and the dilution linkage 234. The dilution actuator 188 is operable to be moved to select a dilution level. The dilution linkage 234 is operable to be moved as the dilution actuator 188 is moved. The dilution linkage 234 is operable to rotate the dilution disk 178.

[0080] In describing the components of the plumbing fixture fitting 10, 10’, the spatial relationship and interaction of the components, and the operation of the plumbing fixture fitting 10, 10’, terms describing the orientation of the components are used. For example, components are described as having upper and lower surfaces and upper and lower portions. These terms describe the components of the plumbing fixture fitting 10, 10’ as oriented in the drawings. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the plumbing fixture fitting 10, 10’ could be oriented in any direction and that these terms are relative terms and are merely used for ease of reference in describing the components of the plumbing fixture fitting 10, 10’, the spatial relationship and interaction of the components, and the operation of the plumbing fixture fitting 10, 10’.

[0081] While the plumbing fixture fitting 10, 10’ has been shown and described in the illustrated embodiments as including certain components, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the plumbing fixture fitting 10, 10’ does not need to include each of these components.

[0082] Similarly, while the plumbing fixture fitting 10, 10’ has been shown and described in the illustrated embodiments with the components interfaced in a particular manner, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the components of the plumbing fixture fitting 10, 10’ do not need to be interfaced in this particular manner.

[0083] As an example, in the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-19b, the housing assembly 12 has been shown and described as including the housing body 22 and the housing faceplate 24. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the housing assembly 12 may not include the housing faceplate 24.

[0084] As another example, in the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-19b, the housing body 22 has been shown and described as including the housing head 26 and the housing handle 28. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the housing body 22 may not include the housing head 26 and the housing handle 28.

[0085] As another example, in the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-19b, the plumbing fixture fitting 10 has been shown and described as including the spray assembly 14. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the plumbing fixture fitting 10 may not include the spray assembly 14 (and, thus, the flow assembly 16 may not include the spray mode selection chamber 48).

[0086] As another example, in the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-19b, the flow assembly 16 has been shown and described as including the first flow subassembly 36 and the second flow subassembly 38. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the flow assembly 16 could be formed as a single component or with any number of subcomponents. [0087] As another example, in the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-19b, the retaining subassembly 60 has been shown and described as including the outer retainer 74 and the retainer base 70. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the outer retainer 74 and the retainer base 70 could be integrated into a single component.

[0088] As another example, in the illustrated embodiment of Figures l-19b, the dilution lever 232 has been shown and described as operable to be moved from the off position to the on position causing the dilution disk 178 to move from the off position to the on position permitting water to flow through the infusion assembly 20 to the capsule assembly 18 and as operable to be moved between dilution levels in the on position or back to the off position. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that there could be any number of dilution levels in the on position, including a single dilution level.

[0089] One of ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that the present invention provides a plumbing fixture fitting for delivering encapsulated material in a water stream. Although the present invention has been shown and described with reference to particular embodiments, equivalent alterations and modifications will occur to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding this specification. The present invention includes all such equivalent alterations and modifications and is limited only by the scope of the following claims in light of their full scope of equivalents.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A showering product for infusing material in a capsule assembly into water flowing through the showering product, the showering product comprising: a housing assembly, the housing assembly including a housing body; a flow assembly, the flow assembly including an inlet, a non-infused flow path, an infusion chamber, and an infused flow path; and an infusion assembly, the infusion assembly operable to mount to the housing body, the infusion assembly operable to receive non-infused water from and deliver infused water to the infusion chamber, the infusion assembly including: a retaining subassembly, the retaining subassembly operable to receive and partially retain a capsule assembly in the retaining subassembly, the retaining subassembly operable to fully retain the capsule assembly in the retaining subassembly; a sealing subassembly, the sealing subassembly operable to create a low pressure seal between the sealing subassembly and the capsule assembly, the sealing subassembly operable to create a high pressure seal between the sealing subassembly and the capsule assembly; and a dilution subassembly, the dilution subassembly operable to pierce the capsule assembly, the dilution subassembly operable to permit a flow of water through the dilution subassembly and the capsule assembly; wherein the sealing subassembly is not operable to create the low pressure seal until the retaining subassembly has partially retained the capsule assembly; wherein the dilution subassembly is not operable to pierce the capsule assembly until the sealing subassembly has created the low pressure seal; wherein the sealing subassembly is not operable to create the high pressure seal until the retaining subassembly has fully retained the capsule assembly; and wherein the dilution subassembly is not operable to permit the flow of water until the sealing subassembly has created the high pressure seal.

2. The showering product for infusing material in a capsule assembly into water flowing through the showering product of claim 1, wherein: as the retaining subassembly partially retains the capsule assembly, the sealing subassembly is operable to move upwardly and the retaining subassembly is operable to move downwardly, and the sealing subassembly is operable to move upwardly a greater distance than the retaining subassembly is operable to move downwardly, creating the low pressure seal.

3. The showering product for infusing material in a capsule assembly into water flowing through the showering product of claim 1, wherein: as the retaining assembly full retains the capsule assembly, the sealing subassembly is operable to move downwardly and the retaining subassembly is operable to move downwardly, and the retaining subassembly is operable to move downwardly a greater distance than the sealing subassembly is operable to move downwardly, creating the high pressure seal.

4. The showering product for infusing material in a capsule assembly into water flowing through the showering product of claim 1, wherein: the infusion assembly further includes a dilution lock; and the dilution lock is operable to prevent movement of a dilution actuator to an on position unless the capsule assembly is fully retained.

5. The showering product for infusing material in a capsule assembly into water flowing through the showering product of claim 1, wherein: the infusion assembly further includes a capsule retention lock; and the capsule retention lock is operable to prevent removal of the capsule assembly unless a dilution actuator is in an off position.

6. The showering product for infusing material in a capsule assembly into water flowing through the showering product of claim 1, wherein: the retaining subassembly includes an outer retainer; the outer retainer includes an outer retainer ring, an outer retainer ledge, and an outer retainer opening; the outer retainer opening is operable to receive the capsule assembly, including a capsule lip; the outer retainer ledge is operable to interface with the capsule lip; the outer retainer ring is operable to be rotated; and the outer retainer is operable to be moved downwardly during retention of the capsule assembly.

7. The showering product for infusing material in a capsule assembly into water flowing through the showering product of claim 1, wherein: the retaining subassembly includes an inner retainer; the inner retainer includes an inner retainer ring, an inner retainer ledge, and an inner retainer opening; the inner retainer opening is operable to receive the capsule assembly, including a capsule lip; the inner retainer ledge is operable to interface with the capsule lip; the inner retainer ring is not operable to be rotated; and the inner retainer is operable to be moved downwardly during retention of the capsule assembly.

8. The showering product for infusing material in a capsule assembly into water flowing through the showering product of claim 1, wherein: the retaining subassembly includes a retainer base; the retainer base includes a retainer base ring; the retainer base ring is operable to be connected to an outer retainer; the retainer base ring is operable to support an inner retainer; the retainer base ring is operable to be connected to a chassis ring; and the retainer base is operable to be moved downwardly during retention of the capsule assembly.

9. The showering product for infusing material in a capsule assembly into water flowing through the showering product of claim 1, wherein: the retaining subassembly includes a chassis; the chassis includes a chassis base and a chassis ring; the chassis base is operable to support a piercing platform; the chassis ring is operable to be connected to a retainer base; and the chassis is not operable to be moved during retention of the capsule assembly.

10. The showering product for infusing material in a capsule assembly into water flowing through the showering product of claim 1, wherein: the sealing subassembly includes a seal platform; the seal platform includes a seal platform upper portion, a seal platform lower portion, a seal platform flange, and a seal platform opening; the seal platform upper portion is operable to support a capsule seal; the seal platform lower portion is operable to interface with a chassis ring; the seal platform flange is operable to interface with an outer retainer and an inner retainer; the seal platform opening is operable to receive a piercing platform upper portion; and the seal platform is operable to be moved upwardly and then downwardly during retention of the capsule assembly.

11. The showering product for infusing material in a capsule assembly into water flowing through the showering product of claim 1, wherein: the dilution subassembly includes a piercing platform; the piercing platform includes a piercing platform upper portion and a piercing platform lower portion; the piercing platform upper portion is operable to interface with a capsule cover; the piercing platform lower portion is operable to interface with a dilution disk; and the piercing platform is operable to be moved downwardly during retention of the capsule assembly.

12. The showering product for infusing material in a capsule assembly into water flowing through the showering product of claim 1, wherein: the dilution subassembly includes a dilution disk; the dilution disk includes a dilution sidewall and a dilution disk upper end; the dilution disk sidewall is operable to interface with a piercing platform lower portion; the dilution disk upper end is operable to interface with a chassis base; and the dilution disk is operable to be rotated after retention of the capsule assembly.

13. The showering product for infusing material in a capsule assembly into water flowing through the showering product of claim 1, wherein: the dilution subassembly includes a dilution actuator; the dilution actuator includes a dilution lever and a dilution linkage; the dilution actuator is operable to be moved to select a dilution level; the dilution linkage is operable to be moved as the dilution actuator is moved; and the dilution linkage is operable to rotate a dilution disk.

14. A showering product for infusing material in a capsule assembly into water flowing through the showering product, the showering product comprising: a housing assembly, the housing assembly including a housing body; a flow assembly, the flow assembly including an inlet, a non-infused flow path, an infusion chamber, and an infused flow path; and an infusion assembly, the infusion assembly operable to mount to the housing body, the infusion assembly operable to receive non-infused water from and deliver infused water to the infusion chamber, the infusion assembly including: a retaining subassembly, the retaining subassembly operable to receive and partially retain a capsule assembly in the retaining subassembly; a sealing subassembly, the sealing subassembly operable to create a low pressure seal between the sealing subassembly and the capsule assembly; and a dilution subassembly, the dilution subassembly operable to pierce the capsule assembly; wherein the sealing subassembly is not operable to create the low pressure seal until the retaining subassembly has partially retained the capsule assembly; and wherein the dilution subassembly is not operable to pierce the capsule assembly until the sealing subassembly has created the low pressure seal.

15. The showering product for infusing material in a capsule assembly into water flowing through the showering product of claim 14, wherein: as the retaining subassembly partially retains the capsule assembly, the sealing subassembly is operable to move upwardly and the retaining subassembly is operable to move downwardly, and the sealing subassembly is operable to move upwardly a greater distance than the retaining subassembly is operable to move downwardly, creating the low pressure seal.

16. The showering product for infusing material in a capsule assembly into water flowing through the showering product of claim 14, wherein: the infusion assembly further includes a dilution lock; and the dilution lock is operable to prevent movement of a dilution actuator to an on position unless the capsule assembly is fully retained.

17. The showering product for infusing material in a capsule assembly into water flowing through the showering product of claim 14, wherein: the infusion assembly further includes a capsule retention lock; and the capsule retention lock is operable to prevent removal of the capsule assembly unless a dilution actuator is in an off position.

18. A showering product for infusing material in a capsule assembly into water flowing through the showering product, the showering product comprising: a housing assembly, the housing assembly including a housing body; a flow assembly, the flow assembly including an inlet, a non-infused flow path, an infusion chamber, and an infused flow path; and an infusion assembly, the infusion assembly operable to mount to the housing body, the infusion assembly operable to receive non-infused water from and deliver infused water to the infusion chamber, the infusion assembly including: a retaining subassembly, the retaining subassembly operable to receive and fully retain a capsule assembly in the retaining subassembly; a sealing subassembly, the sealing subassembly operable to create a high pressure seal between the sealing subassembly and the capsule assembly; and a dilution subassembly, the dilution subassembly operable to permit a flow of water through the dilution subassembly and the capsule assembly; wherein the sealing subassembly is not operable to create the high pressure seal until the retaining subassembly has fully retained the capsule assembly; and wherein the dilution subassembly is not operable to permit the flow of water until the sealing subassembly has created the high pressure seal.

19. The showering product for infusing material in a capsule assembly into water flowing through the showering product of claim 18, wherein: as the retaining assembly full retains the capsule assembly, the sealing subassembly is operable to move downwardly and the retaining subassembly is operable to move downwardly, and the retaining subassembly is operable to move downwardly a greater distance than the sealing subassembly is operable to move downwardly, creating the high pressure seal.

20. The showering product for infusing material in a capsule assembly into water flowing through the showering product of claim 18, wherein: the infusion assembly further includes a dilution lock; and the dilution lock is operable to prevent movement of a dilution actuator to an on position unless the capsule assembly is fully retained.

21. The showering product for infusing material in a capsule assembly into water flowing through the showering product of claim 18, wherein: the infusion assembly further includes a capsule retention lock; and the capsule retention lock is operable to prevent removal of the capsule assembly unless a dilution actuator is in an off position.