CN1324272A - Whirling Liquid Sending Equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides an apparatus comprising a body having a liquid inlet, an oscillating turbine disposed downstream of the liquid inlet, the oscillating turbine being configured to rotate when impacted by liquid exiting the liquid inlet, and a liquid redirecting device, such as a moving or stationary shroud or chamber, disposed downstream of the oscillating turbine to redirect the flow of liquid. While the oscillating turbine may be positioned downstream of the liquid inlet in different ways, it is preferred to position the oscillating turbine in axially spaced relation to the liquid inlet, for example by coupling the oscillating turbine to the body in a loose column to sleeve relationship. The preferred oscillating turbine includes a convex conical upper surface with an angular momentum producing member formed in or on the surface, wherein the angular momentum producing member is selected from a slot, a vane, a blade, or a combination thereof. The apparatus may further comprise a wobble limiting member, such as a stator ring, which engages the wobble turbine.

Description

Whirling Liquid Sending Equipment

Shower heads, faucets and other spray heads or nozzles are commercially available in many designs and configurations. While many shower heads and faucets are marketed as decorative types, there are also many different shower head mechanisms intended to improve or alter the water spray pattern. Any special spray pattern can be described by features such as spray width, spray distribution or trajectory, and spray velocity. In addition, the spray pattern can be modified or designed to suit different purposes, including a more comfortable feel against the skin, better efficacy in rinsing and massaging the muscles, and water conservation, just to name a few .

The vast majority of sprinklers can be classified as fixed and oscillating, as well as having fixed openings or nozzles and adjustable openings or nozzles. Fixed sprinklers with fixed nozzles are the simplest of all sprinklers and consist essentially of a water chamber and one or more nozzles designed to produce a constant pattern. Stationary spray heads with adjustable nozzles generally have a similar construction except that some adjustments to nozzle orientation, nozzle opening size and/or the number of nozzles used are facilitated. For example, shower heads commonly used in residential home construction provide a fixed spray head housing with a plurality of nozzles arranged in a circular pattern, wherein the spray rate can be adjusted by manually turning an adjustment ring relative to the nozzle housing.

Like a shower head that directs water to a fixed location on one's skin, this fixed spray head causes water to flow through its small orifices, essentially following the same path in a repetitive manner. The user of this shower head feels the water flow continuously on the same area and, especially at high pressure or flow, the user feels that the water is drilling into the body, thus eliminating the positive effect obtained from this shower head . In order to reduce this unpleasant sensation from the shower head, and generally improve the distribution of water from the shower head, various attempts have been made to provide oscillating shower heads.

Examples of oscillating showerheads are disclosed in US Pat. US Patent No. 4,944,457 (Brewer) discloses an oscillating showerhead that utilizes a pump wheel mounted on a gear box assembly that produces the oscillating motion of the nozzle. Similarly, U.S. Patent No. 5,577,664 (Heitzman) discloses a showerhead with a rotating valve member driven by a wheel and gear reducer to circulate flow through the housing between high flow and low flow . Both types of showerheads require extremely complex mechanical structures in order to perform the required movements. Consequently, these mechanisms are susceptible to damage due to wear of individual parts and mineral deposits throughout the structure.

U.S. Patent No. 3,691,584 (Drew et al.) also discloses an oscillating shower head, but it employs a nozzle mounted on a rod that receives water that enters the chamber around the rod through radially disposed grooves. Rotates and swings under the action of force on the rod. Although this showerhead is simpler than both the Brewer and Heitzman, it still contains a large number of dimensionally accurate parts and many connections between the various parts. Additionally, shower heads rely on small holes for water passage, which are susceptible to mineral buildup and becoming clogged by particles.

US Patent No. 5,467,927 (Lee) discloses a shower head with a device having a plurality of vanes designed to generate vibrations and pulsations. One blade is provided with an eccentric weight that produces vibrations, while the opposite blade is provided with a front flange that produces pulses by momentarily blocking the flow of water. Also, the structure of this shower head is quite complicated, and its narrow passages are susceptible to mineral accumulation and clogging by particles.

US Patent No. 5,704,547 (Golan et al.) discloses a shower head comprising a housing, a turbine and a liquid outlet body such that liquid flowing through the turbine rotates the turbine. A rotating turbine can be used to rotate the liquid outlet body, and/or swing it from side to side in a pendulum-like fashion.

U.S. Patent No. 4,073,438 (Meyer) discloses a sprinkler head having a housing with an inlet and a water distribution structure having a nozzle at one end and a cup-shaped element at the opposite end, and responsive to entering the housing. The tangential flow of water in the body acts to generate the orbital motion of the nozzle. Also disclosed is a disc that rotates within the housing in rolling contact with the surface to produce partial rotation of the nozzle, the cup-shaped member rotating about the longitudinal axis in response to tangential flow of water from the inlet.

Referring to Figure 35, US Patent No. 3091400 (Aubert) discloses a dishwasher with a rotary oscillating spray device comprising a spray body having a spray head and a support, together with a ring surrounding it. Oscillating spray assembly 10 includes a unitary member 12 having a spray head 14 mounted thereon and a ring 16 surrounding it. The body part 12 has a tapered inner bearing seat 18 which rests on a water supply pipe 20 which has rounded edges forming the bearing seat 22 . Projecting member 12 has a ring portion 24 extending downwardly outwardly of supply tube 20 and an adjacent, outwardly projecting shoulder portion 26 which engages the lower portion of ring 16 and rolls thereon when water is supplied under pressure. . Water supplied through pipe 20 enters distribution chamber 28 and exits through spray holes 30 of spray head 14 . The orientation of each hole 30 is chosen to have a moment of momentum causing the jet to rotate, whereby the shoulder of body 12 rolls on ring 16 as indicated at 32 .

The main disadvantage of Aubert is that the wiggle is created by the tangential orientation of the holes in the spray head, limiting the choice of spray patterns. More specifically, the tangential holes will create a very wide spray pattern, which may be useful for dishwashing, but not ideal for a shower head. Furthermore, due to the mass of the spray head 14 and the annular contact between the shoulder 26 and the ring 16, the water supply must be at high speed and high pressure before the spray head starts to oscillate.

U.S. Patent Nos. 2,639,191 and 3,357,643 (both Hruby) disclose a sprinkler head and working device having an elongated tubular stem which is received by a sleeve in the elongated tubular body, wherein the sleeve and the stem are provided Sufficient clearance to allow the rod to rotate or swing within the elongated tubular body. However, this device also relies on the tangential flow of liquid to act on the rod. Furthermore, both the stem and the body are so long that the device is not suitable for many uses.

US Patent No. 3,009,648 (Hait) discloses a sprinkler head having a one-piece nozzle secured to a liquid conduit, wherein the nozzle is held in place by an inverted tapered plug with supports. The plug includes multiple fins to create a rotational movement on the nozzle. Sprinklers distribute water in swirling streams.

U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,439,174 and 5,588,595 (Sweet) and U.S. Pat. No. 5,671,885 (Davissor) both disclose convoluted sprinklers having a body with a nozzle at one end and a support on the opposite end downstream of the nozzle. on the spray plate. The spray plate has a plurality of water flow distribution grooves formed on one side thereof, and is shaped so that the spray plate rotates when it is impacted by the water stream injected from the nozzle. The spray plate has a shaft connected to the body by a ball and cage respectively, a support cage or an elastic connector. The liquid is directed onto the spray plate and is deflected radially away from the spray plate without being able to control or redirect the liquid.

However, there remains a need for improved spray heads, shower heads or other liquid discharge devices that deliver liquids such as water in a uniform and controlled manner. Ideally, the spray head will deliver water in the desired manner, even at the low pressures or flow rates suitable for use in shower heads and submersible faucets. The device preferably produces minimal pressure drop and delivers liquid in a directional spray circle. It would be even more ideal if the sprinkler head offered a simple and compact design with a minimum of parts.

The invention provides an apparatus comprising: a body having a liquid inlet; an oscillating turbine positioned downstream of the liquid inlet, the oscillating turbine being shaped to rotate when impinged by a flow of water flowing from the liquid inlet; and A liquid redirection device, such as a movable or fixed shroud or chamber, placed downstream of the swing turbine to redirect the flow. Although the oscillating turbine can be positioned downstream of the liquid inlet in various ways, preferably, the oscillating turbine is positioned in axially spaced relationship to the liquid inlet. The apparatus may further include a swing limiting member, such as a stator ring, engaged with the swing turbine.

Although the oscillating turbine can be positioned downstream of the liquid inlet in various ways, the oscillating turbine is preferably engaged with the body in a post to sleeve relationship. The preferred oscillating turbine comprises a convex conical upper surface with angular momentum generating members formed therein/on, wherein the angular momentum generating members are selected from the group consisting of slots, vanes, vanes and combinations thereof .

The apparatus may further include a track formed adjacent the liquid inlet, wherein the oscillating turbine has a first surface extending into rolling contact with the track. A preferred swing turbine for use with a track has multiple vanes and a downwardly angled deflector for the liquid redirector, the blades being shaped so that the swing turbine is when rotated. In accordance with the present invention, liquid redirection means may be engaged with an oscillating turbine or body member.

The present invention includes certain liquid delivery devices in which the body forms a housing having a first end including a liquid inlet and a second end including a ring. A nozzle assembly may be used in conjunction with the housing, the assembly comprising a first end, a second end and a liquid conduit, the first end forming a column-and-sleeve relationship with the oscillating turbine in the housing, and the second end having a A liquid outlet, a conduit extending through the annulus, provides liquid communication between the housing and the liquid outlet. The nozzle assembly may further include a swing restricting member such as a swing plate. The preferred wobble plate has a convex frusto-conical surface which engages the housing adjacent the annulus to limit movement of the nozzle assembly. The outlet of liquid from the housing includes a nozzle having a plurality of outlet passages formed in the nozzle.

So that the above-mentioned features and advantages of the invention can be understood in detail, a more particular description of the invention, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference to the embodiments thereof which are shown in the accompanying drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of this invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments.

Figure 1 is a side cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of the spray head assembly of the present invention.

2 and 3 are side cross-sectional views of a second embodiment of the spray head assembly of the present invention.

Fig. 4 is a top sectional view of the showerhead of Fig. 1 taken along line 4-4 showing the top of the oscillating turbine.

Figure 5 is a bottom view of the spray head showing the outlet of the spray head housing.

6 is a side sectional view of a third embodiment of the showerhead assembly of the present invention.

Fig. 7 is a side cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of the showerhead assembly of the present invention.

8A-8D and 9A-9D are graphical representations of the uniformity of spray patterns from four spray heads, including a spray head of the present invention, at two different distances from the spray head.

10A-10I are schematic diagrams of the swing between the swing plate and the bottom of the housing of the present invention.

11A-11B are schematic side views of the spray head and the pattern/angle of the water delivered by the spray head.

12A-12B are partial top views of other oscillating turbines with different slot angles.

13 is a side cross-sectional view of a fifth embodiment of a showerhead assembly with an orbital ring of the present invention.

Fig. 14 is a top view along line 14-14 of the embodiment shown in Fig. 13 .

15 is a side cross-sectional view of a sixth embodiment of the showerhead assembly of the present invention.

Figure 16 is a top view along line 15-15 of the embodiment shown in Figure 15 .

17A-17I are schematic diagrams showing the oscillation of the sprinkler head according to FIG. 2 between the oscillating turbine sleeve and the nozzle assembly post.

18A-18I are schematic diagrams showing the oscillation of the sprinkler head according to FIG. 3 between the oscillating turbine column and the nozzle assembly sleeve.

Figure 19 is a side cross-sectional view of a seventh embodiment of the showerhead assembly of the present invention.

Figure 20 is a side cross-sectional view of an eighth embodiment of the showerhead assembly of the present invention.

21 is a side cross-sectional view of a showerhead assembly with a flow ring velocity control system.

22 is a side cross-sectional view of a spray head assembly with a bypass valve for redirecting liquid around the turbine or around the velocity tube.

Figures 23A-23F are side sectional views of the bypass valve of Figure 22 showing its operation at different angles of rotation.

24A-24E, 25A-25E and 26A-26E are partial cross-sectional views of the bypass valves of FIGS. 23A-23E along 24-24, 25-25 and 26-26, respectively.

Figure 27 is a side cross-sectional view of a spray head assembly with a bypass valve for controlling the passage of liquid to a fixed set of liquid outlets.

Figure 28 is a side sectional view of a spray head assembly with a bypass valve redirecting fluid around the velocity tube and a camshaft moving the sleeve which controls the spray width.

Figure 29 is a side sectional view of the same spray head assembly as in Figure 26, except that the sleeve is placed below the swing plate.

Figure 30 is a side sectional view of a spray head assembly, which has a spray width adjustment ring below the swing plate.

Figure 31 is a side sectional view of a spray head assembly with a bypass valve directing water around the velocity tube for gentle flushing.

Figure 32 is a side sectional view of a spray head assembly with external liquid delivery to the outer nozzle assembly.

Figure 33 is a side sectional view of a spray head assembly having a riser ring.

Figure 34 is a side cross-sectional view of a spray head assembly having an impact adjustment member disposed downstream of the velocity tube.

Figure 35 is a side sectional view of a prior art spray head as used in a dishwasher.

Fig. 36 is a side sectional view of the first embodiment of the liquid discharge apparatus of the present invention.

Fig. 37 is a side sectional view of a second embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 38 is a side sectional view of a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 39 is a plan view of the device shown in FIG. 38 .

40 and 41 are side sectional views of a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 42 is a side sectional view of a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

43-45 are schematic views of the top of the oscillating turbine of the present invention.

Figure 46 is a bottom view of an exemplary device of the present invention showing the exit passage.

Figure 47 is a side sectional view of an apparatus similar to that shown in Figure 36, but with the post to sleeve relationship reversed.

Figures 48 and 49 are side sectional views of an apparatus similar to that shown in Figure 36, but with optional features to provide a concentrated flow of liquid.

Figures 50, 51 and 52 are side cross-sectional views of other embodiments of the device.

Figure 53 is a side cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention.

Figure 54 is a side cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention.

Figure 55 is a side cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention.

Figure 56 is a side cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention.

Figure 57 is a side sectional view of a fifth embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention.

58 is a side cross-sectional view of another outlet passageway for use with the apparatus shown in FIGS. 54 and 55. FIG.

Figure 59 is a side sectional view of a sixth embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention.

Figure 60 is a side sectional view of a seventh embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention.

Figure 61 is a side sectional view of an eighth embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention.

Figure 62 is a side sectional view of a ninth embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention.

Figure 63 is a side sectional view of a tenth embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention.

Figure 64 is a side sectional view of an eleventh embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention.

Figures 65, 65A and 66 are cross-sectional views of two other engagement structures for powering the rotational oscillating motion of the motor output shaft or nozzle assembly and using this motion to turn a gear or shaft, respectively, having a definite axis of rotation.

Figure 67 is a side cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the showerhead assembly of the present invention.

Fig. 68 is a partial sectional view of the oscillating turbine shown in Fig. 67 .

FIG. 69 is a perspective view of the oscillating turbine shown in FIG. 67. FIG.

Figure 70 is a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of a showerhead.

71A and 71B are cross-sectional views of a spray head having a liquid inlet with a variable cross-sectional area in a fully open position and a throttled position, respectively.

72A and 72B are cross-sectional views of a fluid flow control device in open and closed positions, respectively.

Figure 73 is a cross-sectional view of a showerhead having a support for coupling the turbine to the column. Sprinkler assembly including chamber

The present invention provides a spray head assembly with a moving nozzle that delivers liquid in a substantially uniform spray distribution. The motion of the nozzle is an oscillating motion, preferably combined with some rotational motion. Oscillation is produced by arranging an oscillating member or an oscillating turbine in the liquid supply path within the housing. Water flowing through the oscillating turbine causes the oscillating turbine to oscillate, wherein the axis of the turbine rotates or oscillates about a reference axis defined by the oscillating limiting member. Thus, oscillating the turbine causes the nozzle to oscillate. The spray pattern produced by the oscillating nozzle changes rapidly to varying degrees, so that the droplets or streams are directed over time along a circular path rather than continuously at one location. This type of injection pattern is gentler than many fixed patterns, and the unique design of the oscillating turbine does not include complicated mechanical parts or significant flow restrictions.

More specifically, the present invention provides a spray head assembly having a housing, a nozzle assembly, a wobble generating member and a wobble limiting member. The housing has a first end having a liquid inlet and a second end defining a ring or opening therein. The nozzle assembly has a first end, a middle portion extending through the opening, a second end, a liquid conduit, and a swing limiting member, the first end forming a post disposed within the housing, the middle portion protruding through the opening, and the second end having a liquid outlet , the liquid conduit provides liquid communication between the housing and the liquid outlet. The nozzle assembly is located downstream of the liquid inlet. The rocking member is disposed in the fluid passage facing the fluid inlet and has a sleeve extending therefrom to loosely receive the post therein. The nozzle assembly is oscillated by liquid flowing over, through or through an oscillating member.

The column includes at least one inlet, preferably a plurality of radial passages, and a channel providing fluid communication between the column inlet and the liquid outlet. The inlet can be tangential to the centerline of the channel and the post and sleeve can be tapered.

The liquid outlet preferably includes a nozzle and a plurality of outlet passages formed in the nozzle. A sealing element may be placed between the annulus and the middle portion of the nozzle assembly to prevent liquid from leaking through the annulus to the outside of the housing.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides a spray head assembly having a housing, a nozzle having a wobble limiting member, and a wobble generating member. The housing has a first end having a liquid inlet and a second end defining an opening. The nozzle assembly has a first end, a middle portion, a second end, and a liquid conduit, the first end forming a sleeve disposed in the housing, the middle portion protruding through the opening, the second end having a liquid outlet, and the conduit There is fluid communication between the housing and the fluid outlet. The first end of the nozzle assembly is located downstream of the liquid inlet. The oscillating member is disposed in the housing facing the liquid inlet and has a post extending therefrom and loosely engaging the sleeve, preferably both the post and the sleeve are tapered.

In another embodiment, a spray head assembly is provided having a housing, a nozzle having an oscillation limiting member, and an oscillation generating member. The housing has a first end, a second end and a flow passage, the first end has a liquid inlet port, the second end has an opening, and the flow passage extends between the first end and the second end. The nozzle assembly has a first end disposed within the housing, an oscillating member engaged with the first end, an intermediate portion projecting through the opening, an oscillating limiting member such as a wobble plate, a second end having an outlet nozzle, and a water A passage, the swing restricting member engages the intermediate portion adjacent the opening, and a water passage provides fluid communication between the flow passage and the outlet nozzle.

The oscillating member is preferably an oscillating turbine head, the oscillating turbine head forming a conical surface having a plurality of partially tangential grooves facing the liquid inlet end of the casing. In a preferred embodiment, the oscillating member may be an oscillating turbine head having a plurality of radially extending fins located downstream of the liquid inlet to the casing. The swing limiting member may be a ring attached to the fin.

One aspect of the present invention is to provide a spray head assembly including an oscillating member or an oscillating turbine that both induces oscillating nozzles regardless of the number, design or configuration of nozzle inlet passages. More particularly, the pendulum-generating member does not rely on tangential outlet passages on the nozzle. This allows the outlet of the nozzle to be designed in such a way that a desired spray width and pattern is produced, eg for household sprinklers.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a nozzle that may include any number and configuration of outlet passages, but preferably has a small number of outlet passages with relatively large internal dimensions to prevent mineral deposits and clogging caused by particle aggregation. Because the nozzle is oscillating, the distribution or coverage of the liquid on the surface is extremely uniform. Thus, fewer outlet passages are required to provide superficially complete coverage and, in the case of a shower, a softer feel is obtained. Since fewer passages are required, each passage can be widened so that the passages are less likely to become bound or blocked by lime, other minerals or particles. Preferably, the passageway is wide enough to pass normal sand into the liquid source.

In addition, the present invention provides a velocity system in which most, preferably substantially all, of the pressure drop across the spray head occurs in a large orifice that produces a flow that is directed and distributed downward to the open water flow through the mouth. This speed system is beneficial for reducing mineral buildup and reducing the weight of the spray head and nozzle. With a velocity system, there is less mineral build-up because the outlet passageway can be widened or redesigned because it no longer relies on openings with small cross-sectional areas to divide the flow of water into individual streams. With the Velocity system, the head and nozzle are lighter in weight because the nozzle is downstream of the orifice and therefore not filled with liquid during operation. The nozzle rather includes a housing and deflectors in the housing to direct the water exiting the orifice. The weight reduction is particularly advantageous in oscillating spray heads, since the reduced mass results in a proportional reduction in the angular momentum of the nozzle, which causes the spray head housing to vibrate. While the velocity system, as just described and provided in the following figures, is preferably used in combination with the oscillating members described herein, the velocity system may also be used in conjunction with other oscillating mechanisms, including U.S. Patent No. 5,551,635 and US Patent No. 4,0073,438, the former patent is hereby incorporated by reference, and the latter patent is also incorporated herein by reference.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a swing limiting member. The spray width of the nozzle according to the invention is determined both by the configuration of the outlet channel in the nozzle and by the deflection angle acting on the nozzle. For example, if the nozzle provides a spray width of 6° when used in a fixed mode, and oscillating produces a deflection angle of 5° off center, the effective spray width would be 16° when used in an oscillating mode according to the present invention. ° around (5° additional width in all directions). Therefore, the swing restricting member plays an important role in determining both the effective spray width of the nozzle and the range of the arc-shaped path that each liquid stream passes through in one swing.

Yet another aspect of the invention is an oscillating member positioned in direct engagement or contact with the spray head assembly. Although the rocking member may be engaged, retained or otherwise secured to the nozzle assembly, it is generally preferred not to have the rocking member integral with or fixed to the nozzle assembly. More specifically, the nozzle assembly has an end remote from the nozzle. Preferably, the distal end of the nozzle assembly and the oscillating member receive each other in a loose hermaphroditic relationship, particularly where the distal end and member readily slide or oscillate into a suitable unrestricted relationship. A particularly preferred arrangement is that a cylindrical post (male) is received in a cylindrical sleeve (female), where the outer diameter of the post is smaller than the inner diameter of the sleeve. Alternatively, the post may form a frusto-conical surface (male) to be received in a frusto-conical sleeve (female) where the frusto-conical angle of the post is smaller than that of the sleeve. It should be appreciated that the post could be part of the nozzle assembly and the sleeve could be part of the oscillating member, or vice versa. Preferably the post and sleeve are designed with sufficient tolerance therebetween so that the rocking member can rock relative to the nozzle assembly without seizing. Furthermore, it is most preferred to employ an oscillating member having a conical or frusto-conical post, the first diameter of which is received in the conical or frusto-conical sleeve of the nozzle assembly.

One advantage of the loose relationship of the oscillating member or the oscillating turbine to the body, such as the post-sleeve relationship, is that there is very little friction or other force to overcome before the oscillating turbine will begin to oscillate. Thus, the start and hold of the oscillations of the present invention are substantially independent of fluid flow and can work very effectively in showerheads and faucets even at flow rates well below the legal maximum of 2.5 gallons per minute in many states.

A second advantage of the column-to-sleeve relationship is that the oscillating turbine tends to stand, drift or tip over from the axial center of the liquid inlet. In fact, the oscillating turbine can be at rest at a tilt angle with respect to the axial centerline of the liquid inlet even when no liquid is passing through the spray head assembly. In order to provide the most efficient swing, the swing turbine should preferably be offset far enough from the axial centerline of the liquid inlet that most of the liquid sent through the liquid inlet is directed only on one side of the swing turbine, in time facing the any given location. The loosely fitting post and sleeve relationship allows the fluid displacement device of the present invention to achieve oscillating penetration with fewer parts and over a much shorter longitudinal distance (distance measured along the axial centerline from fluid inlet to fluid outlet). Flat enough offset.

A further aspect of the present invention is to provide one or more intermediate sleeves positioned in the post-sleeve relationship as described above. For nozzle assemblies having a post, a sleeve and one or more intermediate sleeves, it is preferred that the relationship between each component (post, sleeve and intermediate sleeve) be such that there is rocking therebetween.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a sufficiently open flow path throughout the spray head assembly so that the flow limiting restriction can be the size of a flow control ring and orifice just upstream of the outlet passage of the nozzle, the control ring Set in the spray head assembly, near the liquid inlet. In this way, the correct pressure is maintained within the housing to drive the oscillating turbine and the proper water velocity is created at the liquid outlet to provide a satisfactory shower.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a spray head assembly having a pin mounted in the outlet passage of the nozzle. The oscillation and force of the sprinkler head causes the pin to rotate or vibrate into contact with the inner surface of the passage, thereby eliminating any possibility of mineral buildup. The pin preferably has a head which is retained in the nozzle and a stem which is secured to the head of the pin and projects through the outlet passage. It is important that the pin head and stem do not block the flow of liquid through the outlet passage.

It should be appreciated that the spray head of the present invention, as well as its individual components, may be fabricated from any known material that is resistant to chemical attack and thermal shock from liquids passing therethrough. Where the liquid is water, preferred materials include plastics such as Teflon and metals or alloys such as stainless steel. Other materials suitable for use in the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art and are considered to be within the scope of the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a showerhead assembly 40 . Sprinkler assembly 40 has housing 42 for holding an oscillating turbine 44 and an oscillating plate 46 . The housing 42 forms a substantially watertight chamber 43 having an inlet 45 upstream of a swing turbine 44 . The bottom surface 50 of the housing 42 forms a ring, hole or opening 52 for slidably receiving therethrough a shaft 54 fixed within the housing 42 to the swing plate 46 and externally to the on nozzle 48. The shaft 54 is sealed in the bore 52 with a lip seal 56 to prevent water leakage from the housing while allowing the shaft 54 to tip and rotate in the opening 52 . An O-ring may also be used to seal the shaft 54 in the opening.

Oscillating turbine 44 has a conical upper surface 58 and a generally cylindrical sleeve 62 defining a plurality of non-radial passages 60 (see also FIG. 4). The upper surface 58 of the swing turbine 44 preferably projects beyond the sleeve 62 to form an annular overhang 64 facing a lower end 62 . The sleeve 62 of the oscillating turbine has an inner surface 68 defining an inner diameter which is greater than the outer diameter of the shaft 54 . After assembly, the sleeve 62 slides on the outside of the shaft or column 54 and the swing turbine 44 rests on top of the shaft 54 .

The swing plate 46 has a bottom surface 72 which slopes upwardly away from the bottom surface 50 of the housing 42 . The angle formed between the rocker plate 46 and the bottom surface 50 determines the maximum rocking angle experienced by the nozzle 48 by limiting tipping of the nozzle assembly. When the centerline of the nozzle assembly is aligned with the centerline of the housing, the bottom surface 72 of the swing plate preferably forms an angle with the bottom surface 50 of the housing 42 of between about 1 degree and about 20 degrees, more preferably about 2 degrees Between 10 and 10 degrees, better around 4 degrees. Tilting of the nozzles will also be limited by the aforementioned angle between the plate and the housing, resulting in an increase in the effective spray width of the spray head by a factor of twice the angle, ie by the same angle in all directions.

The shaft or post 54 provides a passage 74 which is in fluid communication with the shaft inlet 76 and the nozzle 48 . The inlets 76 are preferably a plurality of passages extending through the wall of the column, preferably at an angle from the top of the housing 42 downward toward the bottom surface of the housing 42 . Passage 74 includes a velocity tube 75 which restricts the flow of liquid through the spray head in accordance with water conservation standards such as 2.5 gallons per minute (GPM). Passage 74 is then opened in fluid communication with output passage 78 of nozzle 48 .

Accordingly, the liquid follows a path that enters chamber 43 through inlet 45, crosses swing turbine 44, enters passage 74 in shaft 54 through inlet 76, and exits through injection passage 78 in flow communication with passage 48 in shaft 54. out of nozzle 48. In operation, a source of pressurized fluid communicates with the inlet in the housing. The turbine oscillates due to the liquid impinging on the upper surface of the oscillating turbine. Swing mainly refers to that the swing turbine tilts to one side and makes a circular motion around the central axis of the shaft, so that the inner surface near the lower end of the swing turbine makes rolling contact with the outer surface of the shaft. The oscillating action of the oscillating turbine exerts forces on the shaft, which are transmitted via the shaft to the oscillating plate, so that the bottom surface of the oscillating plate is in rolling contact with the bottom surface of the housing. The nozzle also oscillates in response to the oscillating shaft. Once the chamber is substantially full of water, the water therein enters the inlet in the shaft and flows through channels in the shaft to the nozzle.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the shower head 40 along line 4-4 in FIG. 1 . The top surface 58 of the oscillating turbine 44 is shown with grooves 60 formed in a non-radial configuration. It should be noted that the liquid flow impinging on the swing turbine 44 will push the swing turbine 44 sideways into an overturned position so that the midpoint of the swing turbine 44 is substantially outside the flow of liquid from the inlet 45 and only the swing One side of the turbine 44 is aligned with the liquid flow at any position in time. Each of the passages or slots 60 formed in the upper end 58 of the swing turbine 44 are non-radial and act as vanes which cause the swing turbine to move in a circle about the liquid inlet as the liquid flows through the slots. . The non-radial groove 60, tapered surface 58 and loose relationship between the sleeve 62 and the column 54 ensure that the swing turbine 44 will tip over when the fluid flows under pressure against the top of the swing turbine 44, off center and start to wobble. More specifically, the liquid impinging on the conical surface 58 of the turbine 44 produces an overturning force 31 and the liquid passing through the groove 60 produces a rotational force 33 . The flow of liquid through the inlet 45 thus causes the oscillating turbine 44 to oscillate clockwise as indicated by arrow 61 . Once the swing is initiated, the continuous water flow keeps the swing turbine 44 in swing mode. In addition, the flow of liquid creates a downward retaining force which pushes down on the turbine in an attempt to keep the turbine from moving out of its cooperative relationship with the nozzle assembly. Therefore, it is preferable to make the angle of the tapered surface 58 large enough to produce at least a modest tipping force even when the turbine has fully tipped over, but not so large that the turbine is pulled up and out of contact with the nozzle assembly.

For a given oscillating turbine, the oscillating rate or oscillating speed can be increased (or decreased) by increasing (or decreasing) the flow of liquid through the nozzle. However, it is possible to design an oscillating turbine to have a faster or slower oscillating rate for a given liquid flow rate by varying the angle or slope of the slots in the oscillating turbine. Referring to Figure 12, a swing turbine can be designed to have a generally slower swing rate by reducing the slope of the slot, ie designing the slot 162 at a small angle β from radial. Similarly, the swing turbine can also be designed to have a faster swing rate by increasing the slope of the groove, that is, designing the groove 164 according to a larger angle 6 away from the radial direction. Referring back to Figure 4, the slots can even be designed with varying angles to form a pin wheel type of circle. Additionally, the number and size of the slots can also be modified to customize a wobble rate.

17A-17I are schematic diagrams showing the oscillation between the oscillating turbine sleeve 62 and the nozzle assembly post 54 of the spray head 40 according to FIG. 1 . Beginning with the turbine sleeve 62 and column 54 tipped to the right of the housing 42, the turbine sleeve 62 and column 54 make a clockwise circular motion about the housing midpoint 69, shown here between the figures In 45 degree increments. Since the column 54 and the turbine sleeve 62 are always tilted in the same direction, their respective midpoints 71 , 73 are substantially radially aligned with the midpoint of the casing 69 . Due to the circular motion of the turbine sleeve 62 in a clockwise direction (as shown by the movement of the turbine midpoint 71 about the casing midpoint 69), the sleeve 62 forces the column 54 to tip over and in the same clockwise direction. (as shown by the movement of the midpoint of the post about the midpoint 69 of the housing) in a circular motion.

Simply go back and refer to Fig. 1, turbine 44 and turbine sleeve 62 are in contact with post 54 in three places: (1) the lower inner edge of sleeve 62, along the tilting direction (i.e. to the right of Fig. 1); 2) near the inner position of the upper end of the sleeve 62, away from the direction of tilting (ie to the left in Fig. 1); (3) on the lower side of the turbine. Since there are three points of contact, one or more points need to slide in order for the turbine to oscillate. Although all contact points are wetted by a liquid such as water, long-term use of the turbine can produce some boundary wear on the column or on the inner surface of the sleeve.

10A to 10I are schematic diagrams showing the swing between the swing plate and the bottom surface of the housing of the present invention. Due to the angle formed between the wobble plate and the bottom surface, the circle of rolling contact between the wobble plate and the bottom surface defines on the wobble plate 46 a first circle with a diameter 47 (and circumference) different from that of the housing 42 The diameter 51 of the second circle on the bottom surface 50 of . In order to maintain contact with the bottom surface, the wobble plate must rotate to compensate for the difference in circumference. As shown, if the diameter of circle 47 is smaller than the diameter of circle 51, then (when there is no slip between the wobble plate and the bottom surface) the wobble plate 46 will rotate (as shown by arrow 142) in the opposite direction to the wobble (as indicated by arrow 142). indicated by arrow 140). Each successive view in Figures 10A-10I represents a 45 degree clockwise swing.

In FIG. 10A , the rocking begins with the post (not shown) tipping down on the page so that the first circle 47 of the rocking plate is pushed past and into contact with the circle 51 of the bottom surface 50 . For illustrative purposes, two triangular marks 144, 146 are placed on the rocker plate 46 and the bottom surface 50, respectively, near the contact initiation point between the circles 47, 51. When rocked so that the contact point moves clockwise, the rocker plate undergoes a small counterclockwise rotation. For the known diameters 47, 51 shown in Figures 10A-10I, it appears that throughout one swing, the swing plate 46 rotates a quarter turn in the opposite direction to provide a swing-to-rotation ratio of about 4. . The rotation in this example is in the opposite direction of the swing because the diameter and circumference of circle 47 are smaller than the diameter and circumference of circle 51 (ie D ₃ >D ₄ ). It should also be appreciated that the bottom surface itself may be frusto-conical. It will be appreciated that the ratio of rocking to rotating can be increased by providing a larger diameter or angular difference between the rocking plate and the bottom surface. For the oscillating plate and base, the principles just mentioned governing the ratio of oscillating to rotating also apply to the member generating the oscillating or oscillating turbine and column.

Referring back to FIG. 1 , the column 54 is surrounded by two intermediate sleeves 80 , 82 (the use of which is optional) having a diameter larger than the shaft 54 but smaller than the sleeve 62 of the swing turbine 44 . The sleeves 80 , 82 oscillate (ie, tip and rotate about their axes) when in contact with the inner surface 66 of the oscillating turbine 44 . The addition of a sleeve allows the oscillating turbine to tip to the desired angle while maintaining a small contact angle between the surfaces.

Post or shaft 54 also includes a feed passage 84 which opens into annular cup 86 of nozzle 48 adjacent opening 52 . The transfer passage 84 catches any water that might leak around the opening and without a seal being employed. The vacuum created by the water coming out of outlet passage 78 draws water from cup 86 through delivery passage 84 into channel 74 . Passage 84 also supplies air into the space below velocity tube 75 so that the water flow from velocity tube 75 can maintain its velocity while being deflected and directed downwardly into passage 78 .

2 is a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of a showerhead assembly. Spray head 90A is substantially the same as spray head 40 of FIG. 1 except for the relationship between the member or oscillating turbine 92 that produces the oscillation and the distal end 94 of the nozzle assembly. As previously discussed, the swing turbine 92 includes a post 96 rather than a sleeve, and the distal end 94 includes a sleeve 98 instead of a post. Additionally, post 96 and sleeve 98 illustrate the use of frusto-conical surfaces 100 and 102, respectively. They preferably have a common fulcrum 104 somewhere along the centerline. As with the previous oscillating turbine 44, the flow of liquid from the inlet 45 impinges on the surface 58 and tips the oscillating turbine 92 sideways until the surfaces 100, 102 come into contact. The liquid flow through the groove 60 on one side of the turbine exerts a tangential force on the oscillating turbine 92 (as described with reference to FIG. 4 ), causing the oscillating turbine to oscillate in the sleeve 94 . The rolling component of the oscillation is more readily seen in the configuration of the nozzle 90 than in the configuration of the nozzle 40, possibly due to the fact that the contact between the turbine post 96 and the sleeve 98 is substantially linear, Rather than the three-point contact shown in turbine 44 of FIG. 1 .

18A-18I schematically illustrate the oscillation between the oscillating turbine column 96 and the nozzle assembly sleeve 98 of the spray head 90A according to FIG. 2 . Since the diameter of the circle 59 formed on the surface of the turbine column 96 is smaller than the diameter of the circle 61 formed on the surface of the opposite sleeve 98, when the turbine column 96 swings clockwise, the turbine shown in Figure 61 Column 96 will rotate in a counterclockwise direction. Spray head 90A is preferred over spray head 40 because it eliminates the wear associated with three-point contact. It can be considered that the reduction in wear is due to the elimination of three-point contact and the rotation of the nozzle assembly (counterclockwise for Counterclockwise) the combined result of the match. Since the post 96 and sleeve 98 rotate in the same direction, the amount of friction therebetween is greatly reduced or possibly eliminated. While spray head 90 is shown with post 96 and sleeve 98 having the most preferred frusto-conical surfaces, it is also suitable to make post 96 and sleeve 98 with simple cylindrical surfaces.

Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the spray head of Figure 2 with two improved features. First, the spray head 90B is provided with a nozzle assembly having a thin walled tube 110B that joins the wobble plate 46 to the nozzle 48 . The thin walled tube is preferably fabricated from a very rigid material, preferably a metal such as stainless steel, in order to reduce the outer diameter of the tube 110B (compared to the tube 110A in Figure 2). For example, the tubing may comprise a stainless steel tube having an inner diameter of about 0.15 inches and an outer diameter of about 0.18 inches. Reducing the outer diameter of tube 110B reduces the amount of force required to flip or tip the nozzle assembly.

Second, the spray head 90B is shown with one or more bypass passages or slots 112 to deflect a portion of the liquid flow around the turbine 60 . Bypass passage 112 is intended to reduce the force exerted on the turbine by the water, thereby reducing the force acting between the turbine and the nozzle assembly and between the nozzle assembly and the floor or the like to an amount sufficient to reliably maintain oscillation. required force. It is believed that unnecessarily high forces can cause increased friction between the various moving components of the spray head and generate noise.

Figure 5 is a bottom view of the spray head showing the outlet of the nozzle. The preferred group 78 of outlet passages is defined by a plurality of fins 79 associated with deflectors 77, although the outlet passages may be arranged in any manner known in the art. The primary purpose of the deflector 77 is to provide a curved path for the water flowing through the nozzle. A small portion of outlet passage 77 is preferably directed at a slight angle to the axis of nozzle 48 in order to provide a more uniform spray pattern or coverage on the outside of an object such as a person taking a shower at a close distance from the spray head. Fewer outlet passage angles 78a are preferably formed at spaced intervals around the circumference of the nozzle or at various locations radially inward toward the medial axis (not shown) of the nozzle.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the showerhead assembly 120 , wherein like numerals designate similar elements to those of the previous embodiment shown in FIG. 2 . Inlet passage 76 in column 54 extends into channel 74 forming an angle tangent to the central axis of column 54 and channel 74 to swirl the liquid. The swirling or helical liquid 122 passes through the channel 74 to the nozzle 124 . Since the swirling liquid pushes the liquid outward, against the walls of the channel 74 and nozzle 124, no deflector is required. The nozzle preferably still includes fins 79 to reduce or eliminate swirling of the liquid and to define a plurality of streams of liquid exiting the nozzle. Preferably the fins are set so that the liquid exits at an angle of 5° to the central axis of the column.

FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of another spray head 130 constructed and operative in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein like numerals designate similar elements to those of the previous embodiment shown in FIG. 2 . Spray head 130 has a nozzle 132 with a pin 134 positioned in an outlet passage 136 . The pin 134 has a head at one end and a generally straight stem, the head being located within the chamber or channel 138 and the stem extending downwardly into or through the outlet passage 136 . The centrifugal force created by the oscillating nozzle causes the pins to rub against the sides of the outlet passage 136 and keep it free of lime or other mineral deposits. This self-maintaining feature is useful in areas where the water has a high concentration of lime or other minerals and requires the use of pressurized sprinklers.

Figures 8A-8D are graphical representations of the uniformity of the spray pattern from four showerheads, including three commercially available showerheads (Figures 8A-8C) and one showerhead at a distance from the showerhead. Showerhead (FIG. 8D) made in accordance with the invention of FIG. 2. Figures 9A-9D are similar diagrams prepared with the same four shower heads, but separated by a greater distance. Each of the spray heads is connected to a constant pressure water source and leads generally downwardly into a row of glass tubes having a diameter of about 1/4 inch. The results of this experiment are shown in the figure as a side view of the liquid collected in the glass tube. Clearly, the results shown in Figures 8D and 9D provide the most uniform distribution of water across the width of the spray pattern. Other figures show that the delivery of water tends to be concentrated at one point or small sub-area of the spray pattern.

11A and 11B are schematic side views of the spray head 40 according to FIG. 2 and the pattern of water delivered by the nozzle 48 . If the nozzle 48 is held stationary, the spray width delimited by the dashed line 150 will result in the design of the nozzle itself. When the nozzle 48 is allowed to oscillate according to the invention, the spray width increases by 2α, where α is the same angle as the angle between the oscillating plate and the bottom surface (see FIG. 2). Figure 11 also shows the characteristic spray pattern that can be seen with the naked eye. Rapid oscillation of the nozzle 48 breaks up individual droplets or streams and spreads them along an arcuate path. For example, assume that the nozzle has twelve outlet passages: three outlet passages 78a are directed at 2° off center and nine passages are directed at 6° off center. If the spray head is designed to swing at 2°, that is, an angle of -2° is set between the swing plate and the bottom surface, a total spray angle of 16° (ie the angle between the dotted line 150) can be obtained. Since a 2° swing will provide a 4° deflection (i.e. 2° in all directions), three outlet passages directed at 2° will spray liquid at angles covering 0° to 8° off axis, which represents One quarter of the area of the spray head, and the nine outlet channels directed at 6° will spray liquid at an angle covering 8° to 16°, which is three quarters of the spray area. It should be noted that many other designs of outlet passage arrangements may be employed in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of another spray head assembly 160 constructed and operative in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein like numerals designate similar elements to those of the previous embodiment shown in FIG. 2 . Spray head assembly 160 has a housing 42 for holding a swing turbine 44 and a swing plate 46 . The housing 42 forms a chamber 43 which has an inlet 45 upstream of a swing turbine 44 . The bottom surface 50 of the housing 42 defines a bore or opening 52 therethrough for slidably receiving a shaft 54 fixed to the swing plate 46 within the housing 42 and a nozzle (not shown) on the outside of the housing 42. Shows). The shaft 54 is sealed within the bore 52 with a lip seal 56 to prevent water leakage from the housing while allowing the shaft 54 to tip and rotate within the opening 52 . It is also possible to seal the shaft 54 in the opening with an O-ring. It should be noted that in all of the embodiments described herein, the opening 52 is wide enough to allow the shaft to rotate and oscillate about the centerline of the housing so that said oscillating motion occurs. While housing 42 is preferably substantially fluid-tight, it is also possible and within the scope of the present invention to provide some fluid passage between shaft 54 and opening 52.

The oscillating turbine 44 has a conical upper surface 58 having a plurality of radially extending vanes 165 and a generally cylindrical sleeve 62 . The vanes 165 are preferably sloped downwardly and toward the centerline of the turbine 44, similar to a propeller. The vanes 165 and the ramped or frusto-conical surface 167 act together to cause the oscillating turbine to oscillate when in contact with the water flow, much like the trough of the oscillating turbine shown in FIG. 2 . In order to limit the degree of swing, a swing limiting member 166 is provided, which may be a ring mounted around the round edge of the fins 165 as shown, or the ends of each fin 165 may be formed so that they As shown in Figures 15 and 16, facing upstream. The function of the swing limiting member 166 is to limit the degree of tipping of the swing turbine on the shaft to obtain a similar result to that of the swing plate described above. The swing limiting member 166 preferably forms a frustoconical surface 169 which is inverted with respect to the frustoconical surface 167 so that the passage defined between the surfaces 167, 169 is restricted even when the turbine 44 is oscillating. The force is aligned with the liquid entering the housing 42 from the spout 171. For example, if turbine 44 is in a substantially vertical position, liquid passing through orifice 171 will push against surface 167 and tip turbine 44 sideways. However, when the turbine 44 tips sufficiently so that the surface 169 of the swing limiting member 166 is fed into the flow of liquid through the orifice 171, the liquid is pushed towards the surface 167. Surfaces 167, 169 are preferably designed to have sufficient angle and surface area so that tipping of the turbine is limited. It should be appreciated that the fins 165 may extend between the surfaces 167, 169 exactly radially (as shown in Figure 14) or at an angle off radially. Vanes with a large off-radial angle can be designed to propel the turbine exactly on the desired orbit without such heavy reliance on the orbital ring to limit tipping, perhaps at all. In addition, it is useful to make grooves or ridges in the surface 167 of the track ring to increase the relative forces acting on the track ring.

Swing turbine 44 preferably defines a plurality of openings 168 which are in fluid communication with passage 74 in shaft 54 . Swing turbine sleeve 62 has an inner surface 68 defining an inner diameter that is greater than the outer diameter of shaft 54 . After assembly, the sleeve 62 slides on the outside of the shaft 54 and the swing turbine 44 rests on top of the shaft 54 . Oscillating turbine 44 and shaft 54 may be fabricated from Teflon or other suitable polymer material to allow for some friction between the oscillating turbine 44 and shaft 54 and to allow free movement of the oscillating turbine 44 about the shaft 54 . The fins can essentially replace the wobble plates described earlier due to the fact that the ring compensates and controls the amount of wobble experienced by the shaft and nozzle. The oscillation in this embodiment is the same as described above in FIGS. 10A-10I.

FIG. 14 is a plan view of the oscillating turbine 44 shown in FIG. 13 . The fins 165 are placed at an angle so that when the flow of liquid from the inlet hits the fins, the oscillating turbine will tip over to one side and begin to oscillate. In this embodiment, the swing limiting member 166 is a track ring. The ring slopes downward and has an outer diameter that is greater than the outer diameter of the upstream water inlet. The function of the track ring is to limit the swing of the turbine, much like the track plate described above.

Figures 15 and 16 are cross-sectional and plan views, respectively, of a sixth embodiment of the present invention constructed and operative in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein like numerals are similar to those of the previous embodiment shown in Figure 13 components. The swing turbine 44 has a plurality of sloped fins 165 which upon contact with water from the inlet cause the swing turbine to tip over to one side and begin to swing. The slope on the vanes acts to limit the oscillation of the oscillating turbine 44 . Oscillating with track rings and/or sloped vanes is the same as described above in Figures 10A-10I.

FIG. 19 is a side cross-sectional view of a fifth embodiment of the spray head assembly of the present invention, wherein like numerals designate similar elements to those of the previous embodiment shown in FIG. 2 . Spray head 170 includes an ascending turbine 172 having a top surface 58 with grooves 60 as in the other embodiments of the invention discussed above. Upwelling turbine 172 also has a sleeve 174 with a fluid passage 176 therethrough and a swing limiting member 178 mounted at the end of sleeve 174 opposite turbine face 58 . Although rocker plate 178 rocks on bottom surface 50 as shown in FIGS. 10A-10I , rocker plate 178 is part of turbine 172 rather than nozzle assembly 180 as in other embodiments disclosed herein. In contrast, the turbine 172 itself will oscillate as shown in Figures 10A-10I.

The rocker plate 178, or alternatively, another portion of the sleeve, includes at one place an annular riser ring 182 shown as an inwardly directed lip in a portion of the nozzle assembly 180 such as the upper portion of the post Placed in position constrained by a mating annular groove 184 . Thus, turbine 172 , rocker plate 178 and lip 182 cause lip 182 to raise and lower the side of nozzle assembly 180 when in contact with upper wall 86 of slot 184 and rock nozzle assembly 180 on rocker limiting surface 183 . As the wobble plate 178 oscillates, the lip 182 will maintain one point of contact with the surface 186 of the nozzle assembly 180 and the wobble plate 178 will maintain another point of contact with the bottom surface 50, wherein the two points are on generally opposite sides of the spray head axis 69. side.

FIG. 20 is a side cross-sectional view of a sixth embodiment of a showerhead assembly, in which like numerals designate like elements of the previous embodiment shown in FIG. 2 . Spray head 190 includes a turbine 44 having a top surface 58 with grooves 60 as in other previously discussed embodiments of the invention. The turbine also includes a sleeve 62 which is positioned outside the column 54 of the nozzle assembly. The nozzle assembly of spray head 190 includes an elongated rod 192 having a first end supporting a post and a second end secured to a nozzle 194 . Nozzle or housing 194 is similar to nozzle 48 of FIG. 2 in that nozzle 194 includes a deflector 77 and outlet passage 78 . However, the nozzle 194 also includes an integral swing limiting member 46 which swings on a surface 196 of the housing 42 . Note that the oscillation of the oscillation limiting member 46 on the surface 196 is consistent with the description of FIGS. 10A-10I , and the oscillation of the turbine 44 on the column 54 is consistent with the description of FIGS. 17A-17I . One advantage of spray head 190 is that seal 56 can be omitted and ring 52 can be enlarged to accommodate nozzle 48 . Housing 42 preferably further includes a conduit 194 which directs liquid flow about stem 192 and cooperates with outlet passage 78 of nozzle 48 . Preferably, the fluid path defined between conduit 194 and nozzle 48 is aligned so that fluid travels smoothly through the conduit to the outlet passage. Method and device for controlling liquid delivery

The present invention provides a spray head assembly that allows the user to adjust or control at least one characteristic of liquid delivered from the spray head, such as spray width, spray velocity or impact, volumetric flow rate, and droplet size. The spray head assembly includes a housing, a nozzle assembly, a motion-generating member, and a motion-limiting member. According to the invention, useful motion means include oscillation, vibration, rotation or the like. The most preferred motion is swinging.

The present invention delivers liquid through a nozzle assembly that is coupled to, or at least in cooperating relationship with, a motion generating member. Thus, varying or controlling the motion of the member that produces the motion or the motion of the nozzle assembly itself can vary or control the delivery of liquid from the nozzle assembly. The present invention adopts (a). Change the force acting on the moving member (that is, increase, decrease or redirect the liquid flow relative to the moving member), (b). Limit the range of motion that the moving component can pass through (ie constrain or loosen the physical boundaries of the moving component, whether directly or indirectly), (c). Limiting the range of motion the nozzle assembly can traverse or some combination of (d). (a) to (b) alters or controls the motion of the nozzle assembly.

The housing has a first end having a liquid inlet and a second end defining a ring or an opening therein. The nozzle assembly has a first end, a middle part, a second end and a liquid conduit. The first end is arranged in the casing, the middle part protrudes through the opening, and the second end has a liquid outlet. The liquid conduit is between the casing and the Liquid communication is provided between the liquid outlets. The nozzle assembly oscillates with liquid flowing over, over, or through an oscillating member.

The most preferred spray head for use with the present invention is the oscillating spray head described below with reference to FIGS. Registered July 14), which is hereby incorporated by reference. Accordingly, the swing limiting member preferably comprises a swing plate, more preferably a swing plate having a convex frusto-conical surface which engages the housing adjacent the opening to limit movement of the nozzle assembly. In addition, the oscillating member is preferably an oscillating turbine, more preferably an oscillating turbine having a convex conical upper surface with angular momentum generating grooves formed therein, preferably a non-diameter to the groove.

The present invention provides a method and apparatus for varying the liquid delivery characteristics of a spray head having a moving nozzle, preferably an oscillating nozzle. The user can change the liquid delivery characteristics of the nozzle by manipulating various simple interfaces, including buttons, handles with cams attached thereto, and other simple devices for manipulating or limiting the movement of the nozzle. More specifically, as previously described, the present invention delivers liquid through a nozzle assembly that is integrated with, or integrally formed with, or at least in cooperative relationship with, a motion generating member. Thus, varying or controlling the movement of the movement-generating member, or the movement of the nozzle assembly itself, can vary or control the delivery of liquid from the nozzle assembly. The present invention adopts (a). Change the force acting on the moving member (that is, increase, decrease or redirect the liquid flow relative to the moving member), (b). Limit the range of motion that the moving component can pass through (ie constrain or loosen the physical boundaries of the moving component, whether directly or indirectly), (c). Limiting the range of motion the nozzle assembly can traverse or some combination of (d). (a) to (b) alters or controls the motion of the nozzle assembly.

Figure 21 is a side cross-sectional view of a spray head assembly 200 having a flow ring velocity control system. The term "flow ring velocity control system" as used herein refers to a spray head having a flow restriction ring 202 placed downstream of the inlet valve 204 and the member 92 (i.e., the swing turbine) that produces the swing, but within the nozzle outlet passage 78 upstream. Flow restriction ring 202 is designed to maintain a relatively constant flow of liquid through its central orifice by constricting the orifice as pressure in the chamber increases. Additional details and construction of flow restriction rings are described in US Patent Nos. 4,457,343 and 4,508,144, which are incorporated herein by reference.

By placing the flow restriction ring 202 downstream of the motion generating member 92 , the flow of liquid sent through the nozzle 48 is maintained at a given level substantially independent of the liquid velocity and pressure in the chamber 43 . A needle valve 204 cooperating with valve seat 206 is placed to create a restriction which creates a pressure drop in chamber 43 and increases the velocity of the fluid acting in member 92 which produces motion. In this way, member 92 (turbine) can be made to move (oscillate) at high speed regardless of the pressure in the chamber. In addition, the needle valve can be throttled (ie partially closed) at small liquid flows in order to maintain a good speed of movement or oscillation. It should be noted that at higher chamber pressures there must be a relatively small effective inlet opening in order to generate sufficient liquid velocity to move member 92 at high speeds. For domestic showers, the preferred flow ring has a hole diameter of about 0.128 inches and can be used with an outlet tube 208 having a diameter greater than about 0.130 inches, preferably about 0.140 inches.

The main advantage of the flow loop velocity control system according to the present invention is that it can be used for impingement control of the liquid leaving the nozzle. As mentioned above, as the pressure in the chamber increases, the orifice of the flow ring becomes smaller, resulting in a greater velocity of liquid flow through it. In a conventional showerhead, the flow ring must be placed at the entrance of the chamber, and any benefit of high velocity flow is eliminated in the chamber, since the velocity of the liquid leaving the nozzle is determined by the nozzle outlet. In the flow loop velocity control system of the present invention, the outlet passages in the jet housing do not restrict the flow of liquid because the combined cross-sectional area of the individual passages is much larger than that of the flow ring or velocity tube. Thus, high velocity liquid entering the jet housing through the flow ring is directed by the deflector and exits the outlet passage at high velocity without any significant restriction. As a result, a constant flow rate can be maintained while allowing the user to select either a low or high impact spray.

When the needle valve 204 is fully seated (closed), no fluid passes through the nozzle. When the needle valve is slightly opened, such as by turning the handle 210 with a cam 212 mounted on the needle valve 204, liquid enters the chamber 43 at a high velocity producing a high oscillation velocity and a low pressure producing a soft oscillation spray. As needle valve 204 is opened further, the pressure in chamber 43 increases, causing the flow ring to contract and provide a greater velocity and greater impact jet. The moving member can optionally be slowed or stopped by further opening the valve 204 or opening a bypass around the moving member, the former producing low speeds and the latter an even greater impingement flow. Both soft jets and high impact jets provide fluid flow according to the rating of the flow ring 202 .

22 is a side sectional view of a spray head assembly 220 having a bypass valve 222 for redirecting liquid around the turbine 92 or around the velocity tube 75. Bypass valve 222 selectively communicates between liquid inlet 45 and two or more passages selected from passage 224, passage 226 or passage 228, passage 224 being directed at turbine 92 and passage 226 being directed into chamber , but around turbine 92 , or passage 228 leads to nozzle assembly 208 around chamber 43 . Bypass valve 222 communicates liquid from inlet 45 with one or more passages 224 , 226 , 228 by turning a handle 230 connected to valve stem 232 . The preferred bypass valve element 222 can be described as a cylinder seated in the housing 42, wherein the cylinder wall has various holes at precise longitudinal and radial locations to communicate with the proper passageway as the valve 222 rotates. 224, 226, 228 alignment. The detailed operation of the bypass valve 222 is described below in connection with FIGS. 23A to 23F.

Figures 23A-23F are side sectional views of the bypass valve of Figure 22 showing its operation at different angles of rotation. Figure 23A shows the bypass valve in a position where liquid is directed from inlet 45 to passage 224, substantially without restriction. Therefore, the nozzle assembly is in swing mode. Figure 23B shows the bypass valve in a position where liquid is directed from inlet 45 through holes 225, 229 to the two passageways 224, 226 respectively (as indicated by arrow 234, 45 degrees clockwise relative to Figure 23A). Thus, that portion of the liquid directed through one or more passages 226 bypasses the turbine, leaving low velocity fluid through passages 224 and reducing the oscillating speed of the turbine. Figure 23C shows that the bypass valve is in a position where liquid is directed from the inlet 45 to the bypass passage 226 through the hole 229 (as shown by arrow 234, turned 90 degrees clockwise relative to Figure 23A), thereby eliminating the swing of the turbine, while Maintain flow through nozzle assembly.

Fig. 23D is the same as Fig. 23A. Figure 23E shows the bypass valve in a position where liquid is directed from the inlet 45 through 225, 227 to the two passages 224, 228 respectively (as indicated by arrow 235, turned 45 degrees counterclockwise relative to Figure 23D). Thus, that portion of the liquid directed through one or more passages 228 bypasses the turbine (e.g., for soft flush mode, with a set of standard nozzles, or with separate outlet passages in the nozzles), leaving low velocity fluid Pass through passage 224 and reduce the swing speed of the turbine. Figure 23F shows the bypass valve in a position where the liquid inlet is blocked and the nozzle is closed (as indicated by arrow 235, turned 90 degrees counterclockwise relative to Figure 23D). It should be appreciated that incremental rotation of valve 225 may result in somewhat smoother transitions between the various operating modes.

24A-24E, 25A-25E, and 26A-26E are partial schematic cross-sectional views of the bypass valves of FIGS. 23A-23E along lines 24-24, 25-25, and 26-26, respectively.

Referring again to FIG. 22 , bypass passage 228 extends through the wall of housing 42 and then opens adjacent nozzle assembly 48 to allow liquid to be directed into a sump 236 . Slot 236 empties into outlet passage 78 through a plurality of holes 238 at a low pressure and velocity so as to reduce the overall velocity of liquid exiting outlet passage 78 . The introduction of a low velocity fluid into a primary flow flowing at high velocity in order to reduce the velocity of the primary flow is referred to herein as a "soft flush" mode.

FIG. 27 is a side sectional view of a spray head assembly 240 having a bypass valve 242 for controlling the flow of liquid to a set of fixed liquid outlet passages 244 . Although bypass valve 242 operates in the same manner as bypass valve 222 of FIGS. 22-26 , valve 242 has been simplified by omitting passage 229 . Clockwise rotation of valve 242 directs liquid through passage 228 and outlet passage 244 . Passage 244 is preferably directed at an angle so as to increase the effective spray width of spray head assembly 240 .

28 is a side cross-sectional view of a spray head assembly 250 having a bypass valve 252 for redirecting liquid around velocity tube 75 through passage 228 to tank 236. Bypass valve 252 also includes a camshaft 254 (the bypass valve is eccentrically out of the page) engaging a sleeve 256 which controls the spray width of the nozzle assembly by constraining the movement of wobble plate 46 . When the bypass valve 252 is turned, the camshaft 254 lowers the sleeve 256 to bring the annular flange 258 into contact with the swing plate 46, limiting the degree of swing and thereby narrowing the spray width. Further lowering the sleeve stabilizes the wobble plate and provides a large impact fluid flow.

FIG. 29 is a side sectional view of the same spray head assembly as in FIG. 28 except that the sleeve 266 has a flange 268 which rests on the underside of the wobble plate 46. FIG. As the bypass valve 262 is rotated, the cam 264 lifts the sleeve 266 to bring the flange into contact with the swing plate 46, thereby limiting the range of motion of the nozzle assembly and narrowing the spray width.

FIG. 30 is a side sectional view of a spray head assembly 270 having a spray width adjustment ring 272 below a swing plate 274. As shown in FIG. As the adjustment ring 272 is turned clockwise, the adjustment ring 272 is pulled toward the ring 276 by the threaded connection, limiting the range of motion of the swing ring 274 . All surfaces of the spray head assembly 270 that contact the wobble plate 274 are preferably angled downward toward a common point 278 in order to keep the post 278 centered in the passage 277 .

Figure 31 is a side sectional view of a spray head assembly 280 having a bypass valve 282 (of any known form) for directing water from chamber 43 to the nozzle assembly around velocity tube 75 for a soft flush.

FIG. 32 is a side cross-sectional view of a spray head assembly 290 having a wobble-generating member 292 , a wobble-limiting member 294 and a nozzle 296 . Liquid is sent from chamber 43 through holes 293 and 295 onto the outer surface of nozzle 296 . Additionally, a bypass valve 282 is included to provide a soft flush to passage 295 .

33 is a side sectional view of a spray head assembly 300 which is substantially similar to that of FIG. 19 with the addition of a soft flush bypass valve 282 which routes fluid to communicate with nozzle outlet passage 286. Outlet passage 286 is preferably directed such that the liquid coming out of passage 286 mixes with the liquid coming out of outlet passage 78, but only after both liquid streams have exited nozzle 288.

FIG. 34 is a side cross-sectional view of a spray head assembly 310 having an impact (velocity) adjustment assembly positioned downstream of the velocity tube 75. FIG. The shock adjustment assembly 312 includes a needle valve 314 which is placed in the velocity tube 75 or other small orifice to provide greater flow restriction and increase the velocity of the fluid therethrough. As shown in FIG. 34 , the assembly 310 may be provided with a convenient gripping member 316 for stopping the oscillation of the nozzle assembly when adjusting the position of the needle valve 314 . Gripping member 316 is shown as an annular ring that is pushed up by compression spring 318 . A handle 320 is provided to allow a user to pull down on the grip member 316 until the grip surface 322 contacts the outer surface of the spray housing 324 and secures the nozzle assembly in a stationary position. The tab 326 at the end of the needle valve 314 is then held between the user's fingers and turned. Since the needle valve 314 is threaded through the center of the deflector 328, the valve 314 can be forwarded or retracted to obtain the desired degree of fluid shock. It is best to make the threads tight enough so that the needle valve position remains fixed even if the nozzle assembly oscillates or vibrates over time.

While the above description is for preferred embodiments of the invention, other embodiments of the invention can be devised without departing from the essential scope thereof, which is defined by the following claims. I． Includes a chamber for the auxiliary sprinkler assembly.

The present invention provides a device with a moving nozzle that delivers liquid for use in various applications such as, but not limited to, whirlpool baths or showers. The motion of the nozzle may include oscillation, rotation, arcuate motion, oscillation, or a combination of these motions. The movement of the nozzle is powered by providing an oscillating member, such as an oscillating turbine, in the liquid supply path inside the housing. Water flowing outside the oscillating turbine causes the oscillating turbine to oscillate. The oscillating turbine imparts motion to the nozzle following a defined arcuate path. Movement of the nozzle, or at least redirection of the nozzle outlet, provides a more satisfactory swirl bath experience than many fixed nozzles. An advantage of the unique design of the oscillating turbine is that it does not include complex mechanical parts or create significant throttling.

One aspect of the invention is to provide an apparatus with an oscillating member or oscillating turbine which directly engages the nozzle. The nozzle may have any number of outlet passages, but preferably has fewer than five outlet passages, more preferably only one or two outlet passages directing the liquid at the same or different angles. The oscillating turbine is preferably mounted on a column in a sleeve or a track where the upper conical surface of the oscillating turbine faces the water inlet. Since the column has a smaller diameter than the inner surface of the sleeve or track, the effect of the number of revolutions the turbine takes on each oscillation is to reduce or control the velocity of the oscillation. The sleeve forms an elliptical socket which smoothes the angle of rotation of the nozzle with respect to the axis of the ellipse. Air may optionally be introduced in the flow path of the water as it passes through or exits the device to provide an air-entrained flow of water in contact with the skin. It should be appreciated that while the detailed description of the invention discusses an oscillating member having a column and a nozzle assembly having a sleeve, the scope of the invention and each disclosed embodiment also includes an oscillating turbine having a column and an oscillating turbine having a column. nozzle assembly. In fact, the various aspects of the invention may operate in conjunction with other linkages that support the oscillating member while allowing it to oscillate and rotate.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a device which may include more than one outlet passage, but preferably has two outlet passages at opposite angles to the centerline of the device. In this arrangement, the oscillating turbine is loosely received in a sleeve secured to the nozzle so that when the oscillating turbine oscillates, the nozzle also oscillates. Since the nozzles oscillate independently of the oscillating turbine, the distribution or coverage of the liquid over the surface is extremely uniform. The opening in the housing through which the nozzle assembly is received has a slightly larger diameter than the nozzle assembly so that the difference in diameter can be used to determine the speed of rotation of the nozzle.

Still another aspect of the present invention is to provide a swing restricting member. The swing limiting member is optionally manually adjustable by the user to obtain the desired water flow from the device. The oscillating speed can be adjusted by tilting the oscillating turbine somewhat. The degree of tilting influences the radius of the oscillating turbine on which the water flow impinges. Small tipping will produce higher revolutions per minute (rpm) than large tipping for any turbine with a given cone angle, surface area, and slot angle/size

The swing limiting member according to the present invention can be formed in various configurations to regulate the operation of the swing generating member. These swing limiting members include, but are not limited to, rails, walls, plates, slots, sleeves or cylinders, posts. The present invention utilizes any number of sway limiting members and sway generating members or even combinations of portions of sway generating members. Exemplary combinations include: (a). The turbine column limited by the sleeve (see Figure 35), (b). A nozzle column limited by a cylinder (see Figures 36 and 51-54), (c). Swing plate limited by the groove (see Figure 37), (d). Swing slot limited by the plate (see Figure 38), (e). wheels constrained by tracks (see Figure 39), and (f). Turbine body bounded by chamber walls (see Figure 45). However, for those skilled in the art, these or other combinations are clear from the disclosure of the present invention and are included within the scope of the present invention.

While the oscillating member may be attached, retained or otherwise fixed to the nozzle, it is generally not preferred to have the oscillating member integral with or affixed to the nozzle. More specifically, the nozzle has an end proximate to the oscillating member. Preferably, the proximal end of the nozzle and the oscillating member are received in a loose hermaphroditic relationship, especially where the proximal end and member are readily slid or oscillated into a suitable unrestricted relationship. A particularly preferred arrangement is that of a cylindrical post (male) received in a cylindrical sleeve (female), where the outer diameter of the post is smaller than the inner diameter of the sleeve. Alternatively, the post may form a frusto-conical surface (male) to be received in a frusto-conical sleeve (female) where the frusto-conical angle of the post is smaller than that of the sleeve. It should be appreciated that the post could be part of the nozzle assembly and the sleeve could be part of the oscillating member, or vice versa. Preferably the post and sleeve are designed with sufficient tolerance therebetween so that the rocking member can rock relative to the nozzle assembly without seizing. Furthermore, it is most preferred to employ an oscillating member having a conical or frusto-conical post, the first diameter of which is received in the conical or frusto-conical sleeve of the nozzle assembly. Examples of various oscillating spray head assemblies that may be used in the present invention are described in co-pending US Patent Application Serial No. 09/115,362, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Another embodiment or aspect of the present invention is to provide a fluid powered motor capable of driving various devices such as nozzle assemblies, moving sprinkler heads or secondary pumps. This motor is particularly useful in applications requiring low output speeds, since complex reduction gears can be eliminated. The motor is provided by an oscillating member in post/casing relationship to either the drive assembly or the nozzle assembly, wherein the oscillating movement of the drive assembly or nozzle assembly is constrained by the oscillating limiting member. Although the swing of the drive assembly is restricted, the drive assembly is still allowed to rotate within the swing limiting member, and the drive assembly forms a motor output shaft. The swing limiting member is preferably a slot (engages a swing plate on the drive assembly or nozzle assembly), a plate (engages a swing groove on the drive assembly or nozzle assembly), or a cylinder (engages a swing plate on the drive assembly or nozzle assembly). combined with a column on the assembly). The swing limiting member should engage the drive assembly or nozzle assembly within a certain dimensional tolerance to limit the degree of swing (maximum angle from the central axis) imparted to the assembly. While tolerable levels of wobble are expected to be related to deliberate use of motor output, wobble should generally be less than five (5) degrees off center, and preferably less than two (2) degrees off center. It should be appreciated that the motor output shaft may be connected to any device without limitation, whether the device is integral with the shaft (such as an eccentric drive pin), is in loose fit engagement with the shaft, is bonded to the shaft, or is momentary or active. Conditionally fixed on the axis. A preferred motor shaft includes a fluid passage therethrough to form the nozzle assembly. Another preferred motor shaft engages the individual nozzle assemblies in any known manner to provide a simple (circular, oscillating or reciprocating, etc.) or complex (elliptical, sweeping, etc.) Nozzle assembly movement. The separate nozzle assembly is preferably supported in the housing on a mandrel or a ball and socket fitting projecting through the center of the assembly. The nozzle assembly can be spherical or cylindrical, and the drive slots in the assembly can be designed to produce the desired flow pattern from the nozzle.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a device which may include more than one outlet passage, at least one of which is aligned with the centerline of the device and the remaining passages are arranged at opposite angles to the center of the device. Furthermore, the chamber surrounding the oscillating turbine and nozzle assembly need not be much larger than the nozzle assembly itself. The reduced size provides efficient circulation of liquid with very little velocity loss, making this design useful in areas of low water pressure.

In another embodiment, the oscillating turbine is fixed to the nozzle assembly. The oscillating turbine rotates in response to liquid flowing into the chamber and liquid exiting the nozzle assembly to provide a uniform flow pattern. This device is especially useful in areas of low water pressure because water entering the nozzle can lift the oscillating turbine/nozzle assembly past the annulus or groove, allowing easy rotation of the entire assembly.

In yet another embodiment of the invention, both the oscillating turbine and the column are fixed on a nozzle with a combination or combination of high and low pressure chambers, the water leaves the oscillating turbine and flows through the column as described above, but , the water then flows into a high-pressure chamber with a high-pressure outlet that emits small droplets of water at high speed. A portion of the water is directed through a flow control member to a low pressure chamber which has a low pressure outlet where larger, low velocity water droplets exit the spray head. The large and small droplets preferably exit the nozzle at different velocities, thereby creating two droplet patterns which provide even coverage and a satisfactory flow of water to the bather.

It will be appreciated that the apparatus of the present invention and its individual parts may be constructed of any known material resistant to chemical attack and thermal shock from liquids passing therethrough. Where the liquid is water, the device or parts of the device are preferably fabricated from one or more injection moldable or extruded plastic or polymeric materials, most preferably a DELRIN (E.I. 7Co of Wilmington, Delaware Acetal resins such as Du Pont de Nemours' trademark). Equipment may also include parts made of metals or alloys such as stainless steel. Other materials suitable for use in the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art and are considered to be within the scope of the present invention.

Figure 53 is a cross-sectional view of an apparatus 1010 of the present invention. Apparatus 1010 has a housing 1012 for holding an oscillating turbine 1014 . Housing 1012 forms a chamber 1016 with an inlet 1018 upstream of swing turbine 1014 . The bottom surface 1020 or distal end of the housing 1012 defines a ring, hole or opening 1022 therethrough for slidably receiving a post 1024 secured to the swing turbine 1014 within the housing 1012 and a through ring 1022 of the nozzle 1026 . Post 1024 is retained in opening 1022 by an annular shoulder 1028 that allows free rotation of post 1024 within opening 1022 . The annular shoulder 1028 may slope upwardly to provide a frusto-conical surface in contact with the bottom surface 1020 of the housing 1012 .

Oscillating turbine 1014 has a tapered upper surface 1036 forming a plurality of non-radial passages as shown in co-pending US Patent Application Serial No. 09/115,362. The upper surface 1036 of the swing turbine 1014 preferably projects beyond the track 1030 to form an annular overhang facing the bottom surface 1020 of the housing 1012 . Swing turbine 1014 and post 1024 are preferably made of DELRIN or other suitable polymeric material to allow some friction between post 1024 of swing turbine 1014 and track 1030 while allowing the swing turbine to move as defined by track 1030. Free movement within the boundaries.

The housing forms a swing limiting sleeve or orbit 1030 in which the swing sleeve 1014 rotates. The track 1030 has an inner diameter several times larger than the outer diameter of the post 1024, which allows the oscillating turbine 1014 to roll around in the track 1030 in an oscillating mode. The function of the track is to reduce the oscillating speed of the turbine 1014. The track may have an elliptical opening (viewed from above) to likewise flatten the movement of the nozzles into an elliptical figure and to smooth the flow path of the water coming out of the nozzles to the size of the ellipse. Air may be introduced in the flow path of the water through a port 1038 as the water exits the spray head to provide an air-entrained water flow. Aired water streams are ideal for contact with the skin in a whirlpool bath, where nozzles release the stream into a cloud of water.

Post 1024 provides a passage 1040 in fluid communication between shaft inlet 1032 and nozzle 1034 . The inlets 1032 are preferably a plurality of passages extending through the wall of the column, preferably at an angle downward from the top of the housing 1012 towards the bottom surface 1020 of the housing 1012 .

Liquid thus follows a path into chamber 1018 through inlet 1018, into channel 1040 in column 1024 through inlet 1032, and out of nozzle 1026 through nozzle passage 1034 in fluid communication with channel 1040 in shaft 1024. In operation, a source of pressurized liquid, such as a water pipe from a residential or commercial water source or pump-driven circulating water, communicates with the inlet 1018 in the housing 1012 . The oscillating turbine 1014 oscillates due to the action of liquid flowing over the upper surface 1036 of the oscillating turbine 1014 . "Swing" herein refers primarily to the swing turbine 1014 tipping to one side such that the outer surface of the column 1024 of the swing turbine 1014 is in rolling contact with the inner surface of the track 1030 . The oscillation of the oscillating turbine exerts a force on the shaft 1024 which is transferred to the water exiting the channel 1040 and passing through the nozzles 1026 . Once the chamber is substantially filled with water, the water therein enters the inlet in the shaft and flows through channels in the shaft to the nozzles.

For any given oscillating turbine, the oscillating rate or velocity can be increased (or decreased) by increasing (or decreasing) the flow of liquid through the nozzle. Flow control can be accomplished by placing a valve 1042, such as a gate valve, at the inlet 1018.

Fig. 54 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the present invention. Apparatus 1044 has an oscillating turbine 1048 for holding similar to that shown in FIG. 53 . However, the swing turbine 1048 is loosely received in a sleeve 1050 which is part of the nozzle assembly 1052 . Housing 1046 forms a chamber 1054 with an inlet 1056 upstream of swing turbine 1048 . The bottom surface or distal end 1058 of the casing downstream of the swing turbine forms a ring, hole or opening 1060 therethrough for slidably receiving a nozzle assembly 1052 having a nozzle 1062 extending beyond the ring 1060 And a sleeve 1050 for supporting the swing turbine 1048.

Oscillating turbine 1048 has the same tapered upper surface 1064 as described in FIG. The upper surface 1064 of the swing turbine 1048 preferably projects radially beyond the post 1066 to form an annular overhang. The outer diameter of the post 1066 is smaller than the inner diameter of the sleeve 1050 so that when the oscillating turbine oscillates in the sleeve, the oscillating motion is transferred to the nozzle 1052 .

The nozzle assembly 1052 provides a long section with an annular shoulder 1070 which rests on an optional ring or support 1072 . The long portion of the nozzle assembly has a liquid inlet 1074 above the annular shoulder 1070 and a liquid inlet 1078 below the shoulder 1070 . The elongated portion further forms a channel 1068 that provides fluid communication between the inlets 1074 and 1078 and the nozzle 1062 . The inlets 1074 are preferably a plurality of passages extending through the wall of the nozzle, preferably at an angle downward and toward the centerline of the nozzle 1052 . Nozzle 1062 may be provided with one or more, preferably two, outlet passages 1080 in fluid communication with channel 1068 . Most preferably, the outlet passages are angled away from each other from the centerline of the nozzle assembly 1052 .

Opening 1060 has an inner diameter that is slightly larger than the outer diameter of nozzle assembly 1052 extending therefrom. This diameter difference acts to control the rotational speed of the nozzle assembly 1052 . For example, if the inner diameter of the opening 1060 is 0.51 inches and the outer diameter of the nozzle assembly is 0.5 inches, then when the oscillating turbine 1048 oscillates 360°, and thus the nozzle assembly oscillates once, the nozzle assembly will move in the opposite direction of the oscillation. Orientation is rotated by 0.0314 inches or 1/50 of its circumference, resulting in a full revolution for every 50 oscillations. In this example, if the oscillating turbine 1048 oscillates at 1800 rpm, the nozzle assembly 1052 will rotate from about 36 rpm.

The flow of water into the housing 1046 can be adjusted with a needle valve 1082 or the same gate valve as shown in FIG. 53 . Additionally, the flow of water may add air by drawing air into the housing through port 1084 .

Figure 55 is a cross-sectional view of an apparatus 1083 similar to that shown in Figure 54, wherein like numerals designate like elements. The swing turbine 1048 is loosely received in a sleeve 1050 which is part of the nozzle assembly 1052 . The housing 1046 forms a chamber 1054 with an inlet 1056 upstream of the swing turbine 1048 . The bottom surface 1058 of the housing defines a ring, hole or opening 1060 therethrough for slidably receiving a nozzle assembly 1052 having a nozzle 1062 on the outside of the housing and for supporting the swing turbine within the housing. 1048 of the sleeve 1050 . Nozzle assembly 1052 forms an annular shoulder 1070 that seats in adjustable slot 1088 . The width of the slot 1088 can be adjusted by moving the plate 1087 up and down thereby limiting the swing speed of the swing turbine and thus the swing speed and tipping of the nozzle assembly 1052 . Reducing the width of the groove (shown here as the vertical distance of the groove 1088 between the bottom surface 1058 and the plate 1087) will cause small tipping and a large RPM on the nozzle assembly 1052, where increasing the width of the groove will This results in greater tipping and lower rpm for the nozzle.

Figure 56 is a cross-sectional view of another apparatus of the present invention. Apparatus 1090 has a housing 1092 for holding an oscillating turbine 1049 and a nozzle assembly 1096 . The housing 1092 forms a chamber 1098 with a liquid inlet 1100 upstream of the swing turbine 1094 . Housing 1092 has a bottom surface 1102 that defines an opening 1104 therethrough for supporting nozzle assembly 1096 . The swing turbine 1094 is slidably received in a sleeve having an open upper end. The housing 1092 has a support member 1110 secured thereto where the support member 1110 defines an aperture 1112 therethrough for slidably receiving the lower end of the sleeve 1108 . The lower end of the sleeve 1108 has a drive pin 1114 extending therefrom that is positioned off-center from the longitudinal axis of the sleeve 1108 .

Nozzle assembly 1096 defines an opening or drive slot 1116 therein for receiving drive pin 1114 such that when oscillating turbine 1094 oscillates, the oscillating motion is converted to rotation transmitted to nozzle assembly 1096 via drive pin 1114 . The nozzle assembly is secured to the housing about a mandrel 1097, allowing a side-to-side movement of the nozzle outlet 1120. A ball and socket joint may also be used to secure the nozzle assembly to the housing, allowing the nozzle outlet 1120 to move in a circular or arcuate manner. Alternatively, the shape of the driving groove 1116 can be designed to produce a left-right swinging pattern or an elliptical liquid pattern coming out of the nozzle. It should be appreciated that the oscillating turbine/sleeve/support/drive pin assembly can be viewed as a water powered motor which can drive any number of devices known to those skilled in the art.

Nozzle assembly 1096 defines a fluid channel that is in fluid communication with a plurality of fluid inlets 1118 in the housing and a fluid outlet passage 1120 on the exterior of housing 1092 . Liquid inlet 1118 extends through the wall of nozzle assembly 1096 preferably at a slight angle. The shape of the nozzle assembly 1096 can be spherical, elliptical or oval, depending on the desired flow pattern of water exiting the nozzle or liquid outlet passage 1120 .

In use, water contacts the top of the oscillating turbine 1094 causing it to oscillate within the sleeve 1108 . Sleeve 1108 itself oscillates, producing rotation due to its contact with support member 1110, driving pin 1114 in a generally circular motion where the center of the drive pin is not aligned with the longitudinal axis of sleeve 1108. align. As shown in FIG. 56, the swing sleeve 1108 acts like a motor which rocks the nozzle assembly 1096 in a back and forth motion about the mandrel 1097 to create a sweeping pattern of water coming out of the nozzle 1120.

The water flow can be mixed with air by sending air into the chamber through a port. The flow of water into the chamber can be throttled by the action of a needle valve as shown or a gate valve as previously discussed.

Figure 57 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the present invention. Apparatus 1122 has a housing 1124 for holding an oscillating turbine 1126 and a nozzle assembly 1128 . Housing 1124 defines a chamber 1130 having an inlet 1132 at one end and an annulus 1134 or opening at an opposite end. Liquid inlet 1132 includes a tube 1136 that extends into chamber 1130 for a distance.

Oscillating turbine 1126 has a lower end integral with the nozzle assembly. The top surface of the swing turbine 1126 has fins 1144 which are preferably located on the periphery of the upper surface to reduce the speed of the swing turbine. The chamber 1130 also forms a track 1138 between the tube 1136 and the inner walls of the chamber 1130 . Oscillating turbine 1126 has a conical upper surface with a shaft 1140 extending therefrom. Shaft 1140 has a track wheel 1142 sized to be received by track 1138 formed by chamber 1130 . The shape of the track 1138 can be modified to reflect the desired flow pattern exiting the nozzle, eg, circular, oval, elliptical, etc. Since the track wheel has a much smaller circumference than the track, it takes several revolutions of the turbine to produce an oscillation, effectively producing a very slow oscillation.

The nozzle assembly forms channels 1146 in fluid communication with a plurality of inlets 1148 located within the housing 1124 and outlet passages 1150 located outside the housing 1124 . Inlet 1148 preferably extends through the wall of nozzle assembly 1128 . The outlet passage 1150 may consist of one passage or multiple outlet passages as described in FIGS. 54 and 55 .

The nozzle assembly is supported by a frusto-conical shoulder 1152 facing the bottom surface 1154 of the housing. Shoulder 1152 is sloped so that it makes rolling contact with bottom surface 1154 of the housing as the swing turbine imparts swing to nozzle assembly 1128, the tilt angle achieved by the swing turbine being limited by the relationship of the track to the track wheels .

FIG. 58 is a cross-sectional view of a movable nozzle outlet 1080 that may be used in a nozzle assembly in place of the outlet passage shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 . The end of nozzle assembly 1052 is operable to receive an outlet nozzle 1081 having a plurality of outlet passages extending therethrough. The outlet nozzle 1081 may form a ball that is fixed in a socket so that the angular position of the outlet nozzle 1081 can be adjusted later by the user with their hands. The ball is preferably secured in the socket with sufficient friction to prevent relative slippage during use, yet be adjustable by the user. The outlet passages formed in the two separate hemispheres of the ball may be placed at diverging angles from each other or substantially parallel to each other as shown in FIG. 58 . Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that there are multiple available angles for the exit passage.

Figure 59 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the present invention. Apparatus 1156 has a housing 1158 similar to that of FIG. 1 for holding an oscillating turbine 1160 . However, swing turbine 1160 is loosely received in sleeve 1162 which is part of nozzle assembly 1164 . Housing 1158 forms a chamber 1166 with an inlet 1168 upstream of swing turbine 1160 . The bottom surface or distal end 1170 of the housing forms a ring, hole or opening 1172 therethrough for slidably receiving a nozzle assembly 1164 having a nozzle 1174 communicating with the outside of the housing and for opening in the housing. Sleeve 1162 supporting swing turbine 1160 .

Oscillating turbine 1160 has the same tapered upper surface 1176 as in FIG. 1 and is mounted on post 1178. The upper surface of the swing turbine 1160 preferably projects beyond the post 1178 to form an annular overhang. The slightly frusto-conical post 1178 has an outer diameter that is smaller than the inner diameter of the frusto-conical surface of the sleeve 1162 so that as the oscillating turbine oscillates within the sleeve, the oscillations are transmitted to the nozzle assembly 1164 .

Nozzle assembly 1164 defines an annular shoulder 1180 resting on the bottom surface of the housing, a liquid inlet 1182 above annular shoulder 1180 , and defines a passage 1184 in fluid communication with inlet 1182 and nozzle 1174 . The inlets 1182 preferably form a plurality of passages extending through the wall of the nozzle. The nozzle has a plurality of outlet passages 1186 in fluid communication with passages 1184 . Preferably, one of the outlet passages 1186 is aligned with the centerline of the nozzle assembly, while the remaining outlet passages are angled away from the centerline of the nozzle assembly 1164 .

Opening or ring 1172 has an inner diameter that is slightly larger than the outer diameter of nozzle assembly 1164 . This diameter difference acts to control the rotational speed of the nozzle assembly.

Water in the housing 1158 may come out along the nozzle between the nozzle and the ring 1172, causing a scrambled spray from the nozzle assembly. A groove 1188 may be formed in the nozzle assembly 1164 in order to prevent pressure buildup caused by water between the ring and the nozzle. Thus, as water flows down the exterior of the nozzle, the grooves will release the pressure and allow water to pass along the exterior surface of the nozzle, adding to the liquid exiting passageway 1186 .

Figure 60 is a cross-sectional view of an apparatus 1157 similar to that shown in Figure 59, wherein like parts have like numerals. In this embodiment, grooves 1190 may be formed in ring 1172 to achieve the same result as the device shown in FIG. 59 . Additionally, the groove can be fitted with a sealing element 1191 such as an O-ring or the like to prevent water from escaping. The top of the nozzle 1174 can be made of or covered with a resilient material such as rubber so that the top of the nozzle can be deformed to easily break up and remove lime or other mineral deposits.

Figure 61 is a cross-sectional view of an apparatus 1200 similar to that shown in Figure 59, wherein like parts have like numerals. Apparatus 1200 has a housing 1158 for holding an oscillating turbine 1160 similar to that shown in FIG. 53 . Oscillating turbine 1160 is loosely received in sleeve 1162 , which is part of nozzle assembly 1164 . The bottom surface 1170 of the housing defines a ring, bore or opening 1172 therethrough for slidably receiving a nozzle assembly 1164 having a nozzle 1174 projecting through the housing and for pivoting within the housing. Sleeve 1162 for turbine 1160 . The nozzle assembly also includes a sleeve 1202 forming an annular shoulder that rests on the bottom surface 1170 of the housing. Sleeve 1202 has an outer diameter that is smaller than the inner diameter of ring 1172 to allow free rotation of sleeve 1202 and nozzle assembly 1164 within the ring. The nozzle assembly forms a plurality of liquid inlets 1206 connected by channels 1210 to a plurality of outlets 1208 .

When liquid is supplied to the housing through inlet 1168, liquid pressure pushes down on swing turbine 1176, compressing spring 1204 and pushing nozzle 1174 down so that liquid outlet 1208 protrudes through lower end 1214 of sleeve 1202 and releases liquid. When liquid flow is shut off, the spring 1204 pushes the nozzle up, pulling the outlet 1208 into the sleeve 1202, preventing lime or other mineral deposits from forming on the nozzle outlet 1208. With proper configuration of the liquid inlet 1206, this action can also be used to regulate the flow so that it remains constant even when the line pressure may vary.

Ring 1172 can also be similar to that of Figure 59, forming a groove 1216 to relieve water pressure and prevent random spraying. Sleeve 1202 may also have a slot to serve the same purpose as slot 1216.

Figure 62 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus of the present invention. Apparatus 1218 has a housing 1158 for holding swing turbine 1220 . Housing 1158 forms a chamber 1166 with an inlet 1168 upstream of swing turbine 1220 . Bottom surface 1170 of housing 1158 forms a therethrough for slidably receiving a post 1222 secured to swing turbine 1220 within housing 1158 and a nozzle 1226 on the outside of seat 1158 . Post 1222 is held in pivoting relationship within opening 1172 by an annular shoulder 1224 which allows post 1222 to rotate within opening 1172 .

Oscillating turbine 1220 has a tapered upper surface and is similar to the oscillating turbine shown in FIG. 59 . Post 1222 is provided with channel 1226 in fluid communication between liquid inlet 1228 and liquid outlet 1230 . Preferably there are a plurality of passages 1228 extending through the wall of the column, preferably radially towards the centerline of the column.

Accordingly, the liquid follows a path that enters 1166 through inlet 1168, passes through swing turbine 1220, enters channel 1226 in column 1222 through inlet 1228, and passes through one or more channels in fluid communication with channel 1226 in column 1222. Nozzle passage 1230 exits the nozzle. In operation, a source of pressurized fluid communicates with inlet 1168 in housing 1158 . The pressure from the water entering the housing acts on the post 1222, pushing the post 1222 down and causing the turbine to oscillate. The turbine 1220 oscillates due to the liquid flowing through the oscillating turbine 1220 . Once the chamber is substantially filled with water, the water therein enters the inlet in the column and flows through the channels in the column to the outlet passage in the nozzle. This design is particularly useful for producing showers for bathing and the like with high pressure water flow.

Figure 63 is a cross-sectional view of an apparatus of the present invention having multiple nozzles. Apparatus 1232 is shown as a multi-nozzle hand shower assembly in fluid communication with a single water inlet 1233, however, individual spray heads may be used as single-nozzle assemblies and multi-nozzle housings may also be used in conjunction with other spray heads according to the present invention . While there may be any number of elements, 5-15 elements are preferred. Preferably, seven (7) elements are arranged with a central element and six elements are placed in a circle around the central element, where three such elements 1234, 1236, 1238 are shown in cross-section. In a preferred embodiment, elements 1234, 1236, 1238 each have identical components, so only one element 1234 will be described in detail here.

This multi-nozzle assembly 1232 provides liquid communication with a liquid source through an inlet 1233 to each of the elements 1234, 1236, 1238 by providing a liquid distribution channel or chamber 1241 that is sufficiently spacious and unrestricted to prevent the liquid from reaching the individual elements. Before, a large pressure drop occurs in the liquid. Chamber 1241 is in fluid communication with each element via a respective liquid inlet 1248 to each element, which inlet directs liquid towards the swing turbine. After the liquid passes through the oscillating turbine, it is redirected into the oscillating nozzle 1256 and through it.

Each element 1234 has a housing 1240 for holding an oscillating turbine. The housing 1240 forms a wall or rail 1246 adjacent a liquid inlet 1248 upstream of the swing turbine 1242 . The bottom surface or distal end 1250 of the housing 1240 forms a ring, hole or opening 1252 therethrough for slidably receiving a post 1256 which is preferably secured to the body of the swing turbine 1242 within the housing 1240. Section 1254 on. Post 1256 and body 1254 provide a fluid passage for delivering fluid from housing 1240 to nozzle opening 1266 . Post 1254 is held in pivoting relationship within opening 1252 by an annular shoulder 1258 . The shoulder allows post 1254 to rotate within opening 1252 . A ring, O-ring or bearing 1260 may optionally be placed between annular shoulder 1258 and the distal end of housing 1240 . According to this structure, a part of the cylindrical side wall of the swing turbine 1242 can track along the inner wall 1246 of the casing 1240 .

While each housing on a multi-element assembly must form a track or some type of swing limiting member, it is possible that the assembly 1232 can open fluid communication between the elements after the fluid has passed through the inlet 1248. Thus, the main components of the assembly 1232 include: (a). A plate with a peripheral wall, a bottom surface and multiple rings passing through the bottom surface 1252, (b). a plurality of oscillating turbines, each oscillating turbine having a nozzle projecting through an annulus, and (c). a liquid distribution manifold providing liquid nozzles aligned with each annulus, (d). Swing limiting member for each swing turbine. In the embodiment shown, the manifold is formed with a liquid distribution plate secured above the bottom surface of the pan, the liquid distribution plate having a plurality of inlets aligned with the annulus. Furthermore, the swing limiting member is formed with a wall extending between the bottom surface of the pan and the bottom of the liquid distribution plate, although, for the wall, in order to prevent flow between the individual housings or even protrude beyond the provisions of the swing limiting member, It is not necessary.

For each element, turbine body 1254 has a liquid inlet 1264 and a passage 1262 that provides liquid communication between the interior of housing 1240 and liquid nozzle outlet 1266 . Preferably, the turbine body includes a plurality of inlet passages 1264 extending through the wall of the column, preferably radially towards the centerline of the column.

Thus, the liquid follows a path that enters the apparatus through inlet 1233, enters housing 1240 through inlet 1248, passes through swing turbine 1242, enters passage 1262 in turbine body 1254 through inlet 1264, and passes through fluid communication with passage 1262. The liquid outlet 1266 exits the nozzle 1256. The liquid outlet 1266 can be a simple outlet as shown or include multiple ports at the same or different angles (as in Figure 59).

In operation, a source of pressurized fluid is in fluid communication with inlet 1233 in device 1232 . The pressure of the water entering the plant causes water to flow through each inlet 1248 to each swing turbine 1242 . The water exerts a force on the turbine 1242, pushing down on the body 1254 and causing the turbine 1242 to oscillate due to liquid flowing over the upper surface of the oscillating turbine 1242. Once the housing 1240 is substantially filled with water, the water therein enters the inlet 1246 in the column and flows through the channel 1262 in the column to the outlet 1266 in the nozzle. This design is particularly useful in hand-held spray units, but can also be used in wall-mounted units. While the device may have any number of nozzles, preferred devices include 7 to 12 nozzles, it being recognized that the individual elements or oscillating turbines operate independently of each other in addition to sharing a common liquid source.

Figure 64 is a cross-sectional view of an apparatus 1270 of the present invention. Apparatus 1270 has a housing 1272 for holding a swing turbine 1274 . Housing 1272 forms a chamber 1276 with an inlet 1278 upstream of swing turbine 1274 . The bottom surface 1280 of the housing 1272 forms a ring, hole or opening 1282 therethrough for slidably receiving a post 1284 secured in the housing 1272 to a swinging penetrating nozzle and a nozzle on the outside of the housing 1272. Flat 1274 on. Post 1284 is held in pivoting relationship within opening 1282 by an annular shoulder 1288 . The shoulder allows post 1284 to tip and rotate within opening 1282 . This embodiment adopts the wall contact similar to that of Fig. 63 to limit swing and generate rotation, except that the extension sleeve of the column 1284 is in contact instead of the turbine itself, and at the same time, the wall protrudes inward and forms a contact surface 1285, as if A high friction or pliable surface such as an O-ring or other suitable structure.

Oscillating turbine 1274 has a tapered upper surface and is similar to the oscillating turbine shown in FIG. 60 . Post 1284 provides passage 1290 in fluid communication between fluid inlet 1292 and nozzle 1286 . It should be noted that the particular oscillating turbine 1274 shown here is not limiting, but any of the oscillating turbine/column configurations shown here may be used.

Nozzle 1286 has a high pressure chamber 1294 in fluid communication with passageway 1290 and a plurality of high pressure outlet passages 1296 . High pressure chamber 1294 defines an opening 1298 in fluid communication with low pressure chamber 1300 . The low pressure chamber 1300 has a low pressure outlet passage 1302 . A portion of the water flows through the high pressure chamber 1294 to the low pressure chamber 1300 where it exits the nozzle at a lower pressure than the water leaving the high pressure chamber, forming large droplets. Water exiting high pressure outlet passage 1296 forms smaller droplets than exiting low pressure outlet passage 1302 .

Thus, the liquid follows a path through inlet 1278 into chamber 1276 , through swing turbine 1274 , through inlet 1292 into channel 1290 in column 1284 . The liquid then exits nozzle 1286 through high pressure outlet passage 1296 or low pressure outlet passage 1302. In operation, a source of pressurized fluid communicates with inlet 1278 in housing 1272 . The pressure from the water entering the housing 1272 acts on the post 1284, pushing the post 1284 down and causing the turbine to oscillate. The turbine 1274 oscillates due to liquid flowing over the upper surface of the oscillating turbine 1274 . Once the chamber is substantially filled with water, the water therein enters the inlet in the column and flows through the channel in the column to the outlet channel in the nozzle. This design is particularly useful when high pressure water streams are used to generate low and high pressure droplets that provide a generally uniform spray for bathing or the like. The low speed, large droplets help eliminate any sort of pulsating feeling from the high pressure droplets because they are out of sync with the high pressure droplets.

Figures 65, 65A and 66 are cross-sectional views of two other engagement structures that can be used to power a rotational spiral motion of a motor output shaft or nozzle assembly 1164 and use that motion to turn a gear or shaft, respectively, having a precise axis of rotation . In Figures 65 and 66, the housing 1158, swing turbine 1160 and nozzle assembly 1164 are substantially the same as the apparatus 1157 of Figure 60 and, therefore, like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements. The difference between motors 1310 and 1330, device 1157, is modified as an additional component mounted on nozzle assembly 1164 instead of nozzle 1174 and the additional component mounted on the bottom surface of housing 1158.

In FIG. 65 , the nozzle assembly 1164 has protruding posts 1312 that engage a "gimbal" shaped joint that provides at least two degrees of freedom to accommodate the oscillation of the nozzle assembly 1164 . Pin 1314 pivotally engages through the side of post 1312 or, alternatively, is pivotably mounted on the side of post 1312 . The outermost ends of the pins 1314 are pivotably engaged with an annular ring 1316 having double wings 1318 projecting radially from the ring. The flap 1318 is itself in turn pivotably engaged with another annular ring 1320 having a guide hole 1322 therethrough. The annular ring 1320 is held in precise axial alignment by a cylindrical bearing 1324 secured beneath the bottom surface 1170 of the housing 1158. The ring 1320 may then incorporate or include various drive means, including gear teeth 1326 disposed on the periphery of the ring.

In Figure 66, the nozzle assembly has a short post 1332 with a central opening 1333 therein. Shaft 1334 is maintained in exact axial alignment by a cylindrical bearing secured to bottom surface 1170 of housing 1158 . Shaft 1334 includes a post 1338 extending into opening 1333 . Post 1338 includes double wings 1340 from which they project radially into slots 1342 formed in opening 1333 of nozzle assembly 1164 . It is an important aspect of the present invention that the motor 1330 is driven by the fluid exiting not through the nozzle but through a separate port 1344 and, depending on the application, the chamber may not be required at all. Such a separate port may also be incorporated in the housing of Fig. 65, preferably with the post 1312 plugged. No room structure

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides a liquid discharge apparatus for delivering liquid in a substantially uniform spray pattern. The movement of the device is an oscillating, preferably combined with some turning. Oscillation is produced by supporting an oscillating member or oscillating turbine in the liquid supply path with integral body members, which may include frames, beams, housings, and/or other structural members. Unlike typical hole-based nozzles, the body need not contain pressurized or leak-tight liquid, and may actually be substantially open. Water flowing through the swing turbine causes the swing turbine to spin and swing. The oscillating turbine then directs the spray pattern leaving the nozzle, distributing the liquid in a rotating pattern around the axis of the apparatus. Liquid flow leaving the swing turbine distribution is intercepted by deflectors and redirected downward. The slopes of the oscillating turbines and deflectors are chosen to minimize momentum losses in the liquid flow. According to the invention, the deflector can be arranged in any suitable manner, for example as an integral part of the body or the oscillating turbine or as a single part entirely.

The spray circularity produced by the oscillating turbine is somewhat altered so that the droplets or stream are directed along a circular path over time rather than continuously at one location. This type of injection pattern is softer than many fixed patterns, and the unique design of the oscillating turbine does not include complex mechanical parts or significant throttling. For some applications, it may be desirable to incorporate a splitter on the deflector to split the liquid stream into a plurality of discrete liquid streams.

Another embodiment of the present invention provides a liquid discharge apparatus with an oscillating member or oscillating turbine which causes the body or housing supporting the oscillating member or turbine to also oscillate. More specifically, the oscillating member is placed in loose contact with the body or housing of the device, thereby reducing the number of parts needed to achieve this motion and increasing the performance required of the device, such as for a household shower or faucet. Jet width and pattern. The liquid is distributed in a rotational pattern away from the face of the oscillating turbine and travels unrestricted downward through the deflector to the outlet of the apparatus, which may be substantially open or may include any number and configuration of Incontinent deflector or access. As used herein, the term "downward" or "downwardly" means that the liquid distributed away from the swing turbine at a first angle relative to the axial centerline of the liquid inlet is so deflected that the liquid will Its direction changes at a second smaller angle relative to the centerline of the liquid inlet.

Although an oscillating turbine can be imagined to distribute the liquid at any first angle less than 90 degrees, the turbine should distribute the liquid at an angle less than 60 degrees from the axis, preferably less than 45 degrees from the axis, more preferably 30 degrees from the axis degrees to about 40 degrees. The deflector should receive or intercept liquid distributed from a turbine having a surface angled similar to the first angle at which the liquid exits the turbine distribution. Furthermore, while the deflector can redirect the fluid at many angles, even towards the axial centerline rather than off the axis, the deflector should have a smooth, gradually changing slope to redirect the fluid into A denser liquid discharge pattern than would otherwise be provided by a given turbine. Preferably, the deflector redirects the fluid at an angle within a line parallel to the axial centerline +/- 20 degrees or so, even better, the deflector redirects the fluid at two or more angles For example, there are twelve passages 66, four of which are angled at 0 degrees and the other eight are angled at 10 degrees. It should be recognized that as the turbines oscillate, while certain embodiments of the deflector will oscillate dependently or independently of the oscillating turbine, the relative angles and combinations of angles of the turbine and deflector often vary and are further dependent on the The structure of the connection, that is, the size of the column and the sleeve or the swing angle allowed by the annular swing plate or the space limiting member, etc. Finally, the surface of the turbine and the deflector is preferably concave in order to obtain a gradual transition of the guide. In , the current travels without loss of momentum greater than the minimum value, and the water does not splash or atomize excessively.

The oscillating member or oscillating turbine is placed in direct engagement or contact with the body of the apparatus. More specifically, the body member supports the oscillating turbine in axially spaced relationship to the liquid inlet, whether the support requires a mechanical connection such as a flexible joint or a ball-cage configuration, or a loose female-male relationship such as the most preferred The relationship between the column and the sleeve. The term "post and sleeve relationship," as used herein, includes any number of configurations where a post (male) forming an external cylindrical, tapered surface is loosely received in In a sleeve (nipple) forming an internal cylindrical, conical or frusto-conical surface to allow oscillation therebetween. The bottom surface of the column is preferably made round or otherwise shaped to reduce friction and engagement between components. It should be appreciated that the sleeve could be formed as an integral part of the body or housing and the post could be part of the member that produces the oscillation, or vice versa. Preferably the post and sleeve are designed with sufficient tolerance therebetween so that the rocking member can rock relative to the body or housing without snapping. Furthermore, it is most preferred to employ a post-sleeve relationship which has a conical or frusto-conical surface on at least a portion of the post having a first diameter for matching with a conical or frusto-conical surface on at least a portion of the sleeve. The tapered surface is in rolling contact and the sleeve has a slightly larger diameter supported in axially spaced relation to the liquid inlet. Conical or frustoconical surfaces should have a common apex so that the surfaces make complete rolling contact.

Oscillating turbines may be supported by the body, frame or casing of the apparatus in any configuration, but are preferably supported by a series of thin fins, preferably three or four, from the body, frame or casing below the outlet passage. The walls of the radially extending thin fin support. The use of thin fins is generally sufficient to support an oscillating turbine without providing a restriction to the bulk flow of fluid. Alternatively, the oscillating turbine may be supported by a separate arm extending along one side of the apparatus.

The device demonstrates the ability to operate with small flow rates while providing a satisfactory flow which is particularly useful in submersible faucets. Due to the oscillations, the distribution and coverage of the liquid discharged from the device onto the surface is extremely uniform and can be characterized by a swirling spiral liquid distribution as specified in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 09/115,362 in incorporated herein by reference. Thus, the distribution pattern allows the device to have fewer and less restricted passageways with a larger cross-sectional area that is less likely to be restricted or clogged by lime, other minerals or particles.

The apparatus may optionally further comprise an active wobble limiting member, although the degree of wobble may be limited by tolerances between the post and the sleeve or between the wobble plate and the space limiting member. Active swivel limiting components, such as race rings, work as self-centering mechanisms for the swiveling turbine.

should be recognized. The apparatus of the present invention and its individual parts may be constructed of any known material, preferably those resistant to chemical attack and thermal shock from liquids flowing therethrough. Where the liquid is water, preferred materials include plastics, such as one or more injection moldable or extruded polymeric materials, more preferably acetal resins, and metals or alloys, such as stainless steel. Other materials suitable for use in the present invention should be apparent to those skilled in the art and are considered to be within the scope of the present invention.

Figure 36 is a side cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an apparatus 540 of the present invention. Apparatus 540 has a housing 542 with an upper end defining an inwardly extending annular rocker plate or ring 544 and a lower end supporting a sleeve 546 having a generally frusto-conical inner surface 548 which Open towards the upper end of the housing. The device includes a water inlet defining an annular flange 552 for receiving ring portion 544 of housing 542 . Oscillating turbine 554 has a lower end or post 556 located within sleeve 546 . The inner surface 548 of the sleeve 546 has an inner diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the lower end of the swing turbine or column 556 along most of its length and a rounded lower end.

Oscillating turbine 554 has an upper surface 558 that is generally conical and defines a plurality of angular momentum generating vanes 560 extending therefrom. According to the present invention, slots and tabs are used substantially interchangeably to achieve the same purpose. However, it is expected that the thin profiled fins will impart suitable vibration-generating forces to the turbine while shedding liquid from the turbine surface at a single angle dictated by the tapered surfaces between the fins. Conversely, a surface with grooves on half the surface area will shed half the liquid at one angle (assumed to be the angle of the valleys) and half the liquid at another angle (assumed to be the angle of the peaks between the grooves).

The upper surface of the swing turbine 554 preferably forms an annular overhang towards the lower end 556 . The lower end 556 is a generally cylindrical post with a rounded bottom surface 563 . The tapered upper surface 558 is preferably rounded at the top 562 . An optional outer housing 564 may be included for aesthetic purposes, but preferably does not contact the swing housing 542 . Housing 542 forms an integral deflector with divider or passage 566 . The deflector surface 567 is preferably a smooth arc that gradually redirects the water downwardly in a uniform flow pattern with minimal loss of momentum.

Post 556 of swing turbine 554 rests within sleeve 546 when assembled. The oscillating turbine and sleeve may be made of any suitable material, but are preferably made of one or more injection moldable or extruded polymeric materials, most preferably acetal resins such as DELRIN. It should be recognized that both the oscillating turbine and sleeve are in rolling contact and their materials should provide some friction as needed to produce a consistent oscillating or spiraling motion, but not so much friction, especially at the distal end of the column, that the Waste the momentum of the water or create a seizure of the turbine. The turbine and sleeve preferably contact each other along frusto-conical surfaces, the contact area of which is a controllable factor in determining the amount of friction therebetween.

In operation, water enters through the water inlet 550 and impinges on top of the swing turbine 554 . The forces acting on the tapered surface 558 and fins 560, together with the engagement of the posts 556 in the frusto-conical surface 548, produce oscillations of the oscillating turbine 554 when in contact with or impacted by the water flow. The oscillating motion of the oscillating turbine 554 transmits the oscillating motion to the housing 542 in which the annular oscillating plate 544 of the housing contacts and oscillates around the annular flange 552 . Without limiting the scope of the invention, it is believed that when the oscillating turbine 554 is oscillated clockwise about the centerline of the water flow from the water inlet 550, the housing 542 is rotated counterclockwise about the centerline. The water fins 560 are directed or distributed onto deflectors 567 of the nozzle housing 542 .

Also shown in Figure 36, a flow control device such as needle valve 568 may be used to control the flow of water on the turbine. The needle valve is identical to that shown in Fig. 21 of co-pending US Patent Application Serial No. 09/150480, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

Fig. 37 is a side cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the present invention, wherein like elements to Fig. 36 are designated with the same reference numerals. In this embodiment, the device 551 has a fixed housing 543 formed opposite the water inlet 550 and supporting a sleeve 570 having a frusto-conical inner surface 574 for loosely receiving a oscillating valve. The deflector 571 delimits the sleeve 546 . The deflector 571 has an upper end 572 which is open and not fixed to the water inlet 550 as shown in FIG. 36 . The swing turbine 554 rests in the sleeve 546 of the deflector 571 , and the deflector 571 rests in the housing sleeve 570 . When the fluid impinges on the oscillating turbine, both the turbine 554 and the deflector 571 oscillate.

Fig. 38 is a cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of the present invention. Apparatus 561 has a fixed housing 543 which has a water inlet 550 at its upper end and a plurality of thin radially extending fins at its lower end which extend between the inner wall of housing 543 and sleeve 570 to provide Support sleeve 570 is supported in spray head housing 542 . Oscillating turbine 554 has a tapered upper surface 558 with a plurality of angular momentum generating vanes 584 extending outwardly from turbine 554 . Opposite ends of the vanes 584 are connected to deflectors 586 to form a wheel-and-spoke structure which defines passageways 566 therebetween (see also FIG. 39). A flow passage 566 is formed between the fin 584 and the deflector 586 where the fin 584 acts to distribute the flow of water passing through the passage 566 . Deflector 586 is shown with an optional extension 576 extending upwardly from vanes 584 to contain the flow of water from the turbine and redirect it downwardly through passage 566 .

Fig. 39 is a perspective view of the turbine 554 shown in Fig. 38, with parts not visible shown in phantom and with extension 576 of deflector 586 removed for clarity. Each fin 584 extends radially about the post 566 . Each preferably has an angled side 590 which imparts a rotational motion to the turbine 554 when in contact with the water flow. The angled sides preferably form an angle of 5 to 15 degrees, more preferably about 7 degrees, with the vertical sides. The tilt value of the angle is important in determining how fast the turbine responds to the water flow in contact with the fins. The water impinges on top of the vanes and travels down the angled sides 590, thereby pushing the turbine 554 in a clockwise direction of rotation (viewed from above in the configuration shown, although another configuration is possible produces a counterclockwise rotation), which produces a counterclockwise oscillation or spiral of the turbine. The mechanics of this motion are described in detail in co-pending US Patent Application Serial No. 09/115,362, which is incorporated herein by reference. The fins cooperate with deflectors, which have a downwardly open inner surface, to direct the water at one or more desired angles.

When the water supply is turned on, the water enters the housing 543 and hits the top of the turbine 558 causing the turbine to tip over to one side and swing in the sleeve 570 . The water is deflected away from the turbine 558 and through the outlet passage 566, striking the vanes and spinning the turbine. The housing 543 preferably supports the sleeve 570 with three or four thin radially extending fins 571 extending from the inner wall of the housing 564 towards the sleeve 570 . The turbine oscillates instantly and discharges the water with a very even distribution.

FIG. 40 is a cross-sectional view of an apparatus 561 similar to that shown in FIG. 4 . The deflector 586 may have a swing limiting member or track member 580 which functions to limit the extent to which the swing turbine will tip over within the sleeve 570 . The swing limiting member 580 preferably forms a frusto-conical surface 582 that is inverted relative to the conical upper surface 558 of the swing turbine 554, so that when water flowing from the inlet 550 hits the surface 582, the turbine is drawn back toward the liquid. Inlet 550 centerline push.

The liquid discharge device may also be provided with a water control element or bypass 592 which allows additional water to flow through the device. The water control element 592 may consist of a compressed spring-valve seat 584 which seals against the inner surface of the housing 543 when the valve is in the closed position.

As shown in Figure 41, if greater water flow is required, the water pressure supplied to the device can be increased by opening a valve (not shown) until the spring is actuated and the seat disengages from the inner surface of the housing 543, thereby More water is allowed to flow through housing 543 . In the configuration shown here, the additional water flow is generally directed towards the wall of the housing 543 outside the oscillating turbine 554 and thus does not affect the degree of oscillating experienced by the turbine 554 and the spray head housing 542 .

Figure 42 is a side sectional view of a device similar to that shown in Figure 36, except that the body or housing 543 is not pivoted, and the optional, decorative housing 564 is omitted. Oscillating turbine 554 has a tapered surface 558 and fins 560 extending from upper surface 558 which direct the flow of water outwardly towards inner wall 561 .

The housing 543 supports the sleeve 570 with a plurality of thin fins 594 extending from the inner surface of the housing 543 to the sleeve 570 . Deflectors 567 formed on the inner walls of housing 543 may optionally include ridges or dividers 569 that split the flow from the turbine into discrete flows. Unlike other embodiments of the invention discussed previously, device 573 does not produce an oscillating spray pattern, but instead uses small orifices that can become clogged and still provides a water distribution pattern comprising many finely divided droplets. Another advantage of the present invention is the reduction in the number of components required to produce effective water distribution patterns such as those used in showering, handwashing, and the like, as compared to popular showerheads. It should be noted that the liquid inlet of this embodiment, as well as any of the previously discussed embodiments, can be fitted with a flow control valve to provide the proper water flow.

43-45 are top views of various conical top surfaces 558 of the turbine 554 shown in FIG. 36 . The top surface 558 of the oscillating turbine 554 is shown with vanes 560 formed in a non-radial configuration. It should be noted that the flow impinging on the swing turbine will push the swing turbine sideways to a tipped position so that the midpoint of the swing turbine is substantially outside of the flow from the inlet and only the swing turbine One side is aligned with the liquid flow at either location in time. Each of the fins 560 formed on the upper surface of the swing turbine 554 is non-radial and causes the swing turbine 554 to move in a circle around the liquid inlet 550 as the liquid flows toward the fins 560 . The non-radial fins 560, tapered surfaces and loose relationship between the post and the sleeve ensure that the swing turbine 554 will will be off center and start to wiggle. More specifically, the liquid impinging on the conical surface 558 of the turbine produces a tipping force, while the liquid flowing towards the fins 560 produces a rotational force. Thus, flow through the inlet causes the oscillating turbine to oscillate.

Once swing is initiated, continuous water flow keeps the swing turbine in swing mode. In addition, the flow of liquid creates a downward force which pushes down on the turbine in an attempt to hold the turbine out of its cooperative relationship with the sleeve. Therefore, it is preferable to make the angle of the tapered surface 558 large enough to generate at least a small tipping force even when the turbine has fully tipped over, but not so large that the turbine is pulled up, out of the way. contact with the sleeve. It should be appreciated that each of the embodiments of Figures 36 to 46 are equivalent so long as the oscillating turbine includes a sleeve (rather than a post) and the nozzle base includes a post for engaging the oscillating turbine sleeve (instead of the sleeve).

As with any known oscillating turbine, the oscillating rate or velocity can be increased (or decreased) by increasing (or decreasing) the flow of liquid through the spray head. However, for a given liquid flow, it is also possible to design the turbine to There are faster or slower swing speeds.

Referring to Fig. 43, an oscillating turbine can be designed to have a generally slower oscillating speed by reducing the pitch and depth of the airfoils, ie designing the airfoils 560 at a small angle β from radial. Similarly, the swing turbine can be designed to have a faster swing speed by increasing the slope of the fins, that is, designing the fins 560 with a larger angle δ from the radial direction as shown in FIG. 44 . In addition, the number or pitch and size of the fins can also be modified to customize a rate of oscillation as shown in Figure 45, where the fins 560 are spaced far apart so that a substantial portion of the water passes through the turbine. One of the thin airfoils 600 is not impacted, thus providing less angular momentum to the turbine.

Figure 46 is a bottom view of the sprayhead of Figures 37 to 41 showing the outlet passage of the housing. Although the outlet passages may be arranged in any manner known in the art, the preferred group 604 of outlet passages is defined by a plurality of ribs or dividers 606 attached to the inner surface 610 of the spray head housing 542 . Four fins 608 are mounted on housing 543 and extend radially inwardly to support sleeve 570 . A small portion of the outlet passage 604 is preferably directed at a slight angle to the axis of the spray head housing 542 to provide a smoother spray pattern and coverage at short distances from the spray head on the outside of an object such as a person taking a shower. The less angular outlet passages are preferably formed at spaced distances around the periphery of the nozzle or radially inward toward the central axis of the spray head housing (not shown).

FIG. 47 is a side cross-sectional view of an apparatus 581 similar to that shown in FIG. 36 . This embodiment includes a post and sleeve relationship between body 542 and turbine 554, but the relationship is the inverse of that shown in FIG. 612 where post 614 is integral with showerhead housing 542 . The swing turbine 554 contacts the water from the outlet 550 and tilts in one direction, and starts to swing. In turn, sleeve 612 contacts post 614 which causes housing 542 to tip and swing.

Figures 48 and 49 are cross-sectional views of an apparatus 620 similar to that shown in Figure 36, except that the oscillating turbine 622 defines a bore extending through the top of the turbine 558 and through the column 556, preferably along the middle axis of the turbine. 624. The lower end of the sleeve 546 defines an opening 626 therein. A valve element 626 is disposed at the lower end of the sleeve 546 and functions to vary the flow of water exiting the showerhead assembly 620 . The valve element can take many forms including plug valves, needle valves, butterfly valves, gate valves and the like, but is shown here as a manually operated gate valve or slide element 628 . When sliding element 628 is in the open condition, water flows through hole 624 in swing turbine 622 and out opening 626 in sleeve 546 . This flow pattern provides a pair of dense water streams useful for cleaning razors, toothbrushes or other objects. As shown in FIG. 49 , when the sliding element is in the closed condition, water is forced to flow through the turbine and out through outlet passage 566 . Alternatively, the inner surface 548 near the lower end of the sleeve 546 may be sloped inwardly so that when the slide member 628 is in the open position, the turbine falls slightly and is held by the housing as if grasped. The sleeve of the column is fixed, and/or is fixed by the casing that firmly engages the underside of the swinging turbine head. It should be noted that any of the embodiments shown here could be adapted to use a similar oscillating turbine having holes and valve elements therethrough to provide a narrow flow of water from the apparatus.

Figure 50 is a side cross-sectional view of a showerhead assembly 630 similar to that shown in Figure 36 except that the outer housing 564 has an arm 632 which rigidly supports the sleeve 546 to allow the swing turbine 554 and housing 546 to swing independently , do not touch each other. In the absence of contact, the forces acting on the turbine 554 are not transferred directly to the housing 542, but instead the water passes outside the turbine 554 and is redirected somewhat radially towards the inner surface of the housing so that The casing tipped over. As the turbine oscillates, the water coming down from the turbine 554 causes the housing 542 to oscillate.

Figure 51 is a side sectional view of an apparatus 640 similar to that shown in Figure 50 except that the sleeve 546 is supported from the liquid inlet 550 by a cage or wall member 642. Oscillating turbine 622 is similar to that shown in Figure 14 with a bore 624 therethrough. Cage 642 supports sleeve 546 so that when swing turbine 622 and housing 642 move, the cage and sleeve do not move. Cage 642 consists of arms 646 secured to liquid inlet 550 and sleeve 546 . The arms 646 have a thin section so that they do not interfere with the flow of water leaving the assembly 640 . The swing restricting ring 648 used to limit the swing of the turbine 622 protrudes from the water inlet 550 to a position just above the swing turbine 623 so that the conical top surface of the swing turbine can meet the inner surface of the ring 648 touch. The degree of swing of the housing 542 is similarly limited by the annular swing plate 544 and a ring or space limiting device 552, including a swing limiting plate 650, which contacts the top of the housing 542 to limit the degree of swing, thereby allowing 48 shows the dense water flow. The swing limiting plate 650 can be adjusted longitudinally to allow for varying degrees of swinging of the housing 542 .

FIG. 52 is a side cross-sectional view of an apparatus 652 similar to that shown in FIG. 50 . This design is particularly useful in applications with low water pressure such as showers in certain residential or suburban areas. The angle of the face of the swing turbine 554 and the narrow configuration of the housing 542 provide only a small change in the angle of the path the water must travel between the inlet of the housing 542 to the inlet 550 and the outlet of the housing 542 . This design allows the water flow to suffer the least loss of momentum and thus the least reduction in the speed of the water.

As with the assembly of Fig. 50, the outer casing 564 rigidly supports the sleeve 546, although it does so with fins 633 so that the swing turbine 554 and casing 542 do not contact each other as they swing. When there is no contact, the force acting on the turbine 554 is not directly transmitted to the casing 542, but the water impacts the face of the turbine 554 at an angle (α), and flows toward the casing at a small incident angle (β). The body 542 is redirected so that the housing tips over, but the water is only slightly redirected so that the water loses as little velocity as possible.

It should be appreciated that angle a is a function of both the angle at which the turbine shaft is allowed to tip away from its common axis with the water inlet 550 and the angle at which the face of the turbine is relative to the turbine shaft. Likewise, angle β is a function of the angle of redirected water flow from the face of the turbine, the angle of the side walls of housing 542 , and the angle at which housing 542 is allowed to tip relative to the mid-axis of water inlet 550 . low pressure structure

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides a spray head assembly with a moving nozzle that delivers liquid in a desired spray pattern with minimal loss of velocity or momentum and controlled droplet size. The motion of the nozzle is an oscillating motion, preferably combined with some kind of rotary motion. The oscillation is produced by arranging an oscillation-generating component or an oscillation turbine in the liquid supply path with or without a housing. Water flowing through the oscillating turbine causes the oscillating turbine to oscillate. Thereafter, the oscillating turbine guides the spray pattern leaving the nozzle.

The spray pattern produced by the oscillating turbine changes somewhat rapidly so that the droplets or stream are directed along a circular path over time, rather than continuously at one location. This type of injection pattern is softer than many fixed patterns, and the unique design of the oscillating turbine does not include complex mechanical parts or significant throttling. This oscillating, rotating-circling liquid distribution is described in co-pending US Patent Application Serial No. 09/11536, which is incorporated herein by reference.

One aspect of the present invention is to provide an apparatus with an oscillating member integral with a plurality of outlet passages for conducting liquid. With this arrangement, the liquid flow rate can be reduced while at the same time distributing the liquid flow evenly over a wide area without relying on small outlet passages or orifices. Oscillating turbines may be supported by a casing having supports or sleeves mounted on a plurality of thin fins extending from the outer wall of the casing. The fins are located below the outlet passage of the turbine and provide minimal interference with the overall liquid flow. This type of housing is ideal for providing a satisfactory flow of water with a small flow of water, which is especially useful in submersible faucets. As so used, the terms "housing", "body" and "shelf" are used synchronously to refer broadly to a fixed member or support frame and are not intended to be limited to surrounding walls or chambers.

The oscillating member or oscillating turbine oscillates about a water flow in contact with the oscillating turbine. More specifically, the oscillating member is placed in loose contact with the housing of the device, thereby reducing the number of parts and improving the device's ability to produce the desired spray width and pattern, such as for a domestic shower head or faucet . In addition, water is deflected along the oscillating turbine and travels substantially unrestricted to outlet passages, which may be provided in any number and in any configuration.

The rocking member is preferably placed in direct engagement or contact with the housing. More specifically, the housing has an end remote from the water inlet. Preferably, the distal end of the housing and the rocking member are readily slid or rocked into a suitable unrestricted relationship. A particularly preferred arrangement is that a post (male) forming a cylindrical, conical or frusto-conical surface is received in a conical or frusto-conical sleeve (female), where the base of the post is preferably circular shape, or otherwise be shaped to minimize friction and seizure between components. It should be appreciated that the sleeve could be formed as an integral part of the housing and the column could be part of the turbine generating the oscillation. Preferably the post and sleeve are designed with sufficient tolerance therebetween so that the rocking member can rock relative to the nozzle housing without jamming. Furthermore, it is most preferred to use an oscillating member having a conical upper surface of a first diameter, wherein the conical upper surface is formed around a post of a second, smaller diameter received in the nozzle In the conical or frusto-conical sleeve of the shell.

A preferred swing restricting member is an orbital ring formed at the upper end of the housing. The upper surface or top of the oscillating turbine makes rolling contact with the track ring when driven by the flow of water from the inlet in the top of the housing. The housing can be adjusted forwardly, lengthwise (vertically as in FIG. 67), for example by a threaded relationship between the upper and lower parts of the housing, thereby changing the deflection angle for swinging the turbine accordingly. Moving the orbital ring closer to the oscillating turbine will reduce the width of the spray pattern, while moving the orbital ring away from the oscillating turbine will increase the width of the resulting spray pattern.

It should be appreciated that the spray head assembly of the present invention and its individual components may be constructed of any known material, preferably those resistant to chemical attack and thermal shock from liquids passing therethrough. Where the liquid is water, preferred materials include plastics like Teflon and metals or alloys like stainless steel. Other materials suitable for use in the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art and are considered to be within the scope of the present invention.

Figure 67 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an apparatus 1410 of the present invention. Apparatus 1410 has a housing 1412 with an upper end 1414 defining an inwardly extending rail 1416 and a lower end defining a sleeve 1418 having a generally frusto-conical inner surface 1420 facing towards housing 1412. The upper end 1414 is open. The device includes a water inlet 1422 at the upper end of the housing, which is preferably aligned with the median axis of the housing 1412. Oscillating turbine 1424 has a lower end or post 1426 disposed within or extending within sleeve 1418 . The inner surface 1420 of the sleeve 1418 has an inner diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the lower end of the swing turbine 1424 or column 1426 over most of its length. The track 1416 is generally annular and acts as a swing limiting member to limit the degree of swing experienced by the swing turbine and generate rotation. It should be appreciated that the oscillating turbines 1412 are in rolling contact with the rails 1416 and their material should provide at least some friction as required to produce a consistent oscillating or spiraling motion, but not so much that the momentum of the water is consumed or the friction is generated. Turbo bite. The contact area of the turbine and track is a controllable factor in determining the amount of friction therebetween.

Oscillating turbine 1424 has a generally conical upper surface 1428, a middle portion 1430 and lower portion or post 1426 forming a plurality of blades 1432 extending radially therefrom. The middle portion of the swing turbine 1424 preferably has a wall 1434 joining each vane 1432 so that an outlet passage 1436 is formed between adjacent vanes 1432 . At the lower end of the swing turbine is a generally cylindrical post 1426 with a rounded bottom surface. Conical upper surface 1428 is preferably directed towards apex 1435 . The distal end of the housing 1412 is generally open and has thin tabs 1433 that secure the sleeve 1418 to the housing. The outlet passage 1436 may have varying dimensions such as angles or contours of the inner surface 1438 of the wall 1434 to direct the water in a uniform flow pattern.

After assembly, the column 1426 of the swing turbine 1424 rests within the sleeve 1418 . The sleeve of the oscillating turbine may be made of any suitable material, but is preferably made of one or more injection moldable or extruded polymeric materials, most preferably an acetal resin such as DELRIN. Preferably there is very little friction between post 1426 and sleeve 1418 .

In operation, water flow enters through the water inlet 1422 and impinges on the top surface 1428 of the swing turbine 1424 . The force of the water flow on the tapered surface 1428 produces an oscillation of the oscillating turbine 1424 as it comes into contact with the water flow. The oscillating turbine 1424 oscillates and makes rolling contact with the inner surface of the track 1416 around the center line of the liquid flow coming out of the water inlet 1422 in the counterclockwise direction (assuming the slope of the turbine blade shown in FIG. 2 , viewed from the water inlet) . The water flows down the top of the swing turbine and is directed by the deflector wall 1434 into the outlet passage 1436 . The wall 1434 preferably extends upwardly over the vanes 1432 and generally along an angle that converges toward the centerline of the device.

The relative angles of the oscillating turbine surface 1428 and the wall 1438 are preferably designed such that the liquid maintains as much velocity and momentum as possible. Although an oscillating turbine can be conceived to distribute liquid at a first angle less than 90 degrees off axis, the turbine should be at a first angle less than 45 degrees off axis, preferably less than 30 degrees off axis, more preferably around 20 degrees off axis Distribute the liquid with an angle between about 30 degrees. The deflector wall 1434 should receive or intercept liquid from the turbine distribution having a surface 1438 having an angle from the axis that is the same as or less than the first angle at which the liquid exits the turbine distribution. While both surfaces 1428 and 1438 are shown as being straight, these surfaces could also be curved or contoured, eg turbine surface 1428 is concave outward and deflector surface 1438 is concave inward. In addition, surface 1428 may be ribbed or finned to better facilitate fluid entry into passageway 1434 .

Although the deflector can redirect the liquid at many angles, even toward the axial centerline, rather than off the axis, the deflector should have a smooth surface 1438 that redirects the liquid with a sufficient slope to A given turbine provides denser liquid distribution patterns by other means. Preferably, the deflector redirects the fluid at an angle within a line parallel to the axial centerline +/- 20 degrees or so, and even better, the deflector redirects the fluid at two or more angles, For example, there are twelve vias 1466, four of which are angled at 0 degrees and the other eight are angled at 10 degrees.

The swivel angle, and thus the spray width, can be adjusted by changing the position of the upper part of the housing. The upper portion is threadedly engaged with the lower portion of the housing so that the lower portion can be adjusted horizontally up or down relative to the centerline of the swing turbine. Therefore, if the user requires a wider pattern, the lower part of the housing can be adjusted downwards to provide a larger space for turbine rotation (larger angle with respect to the axial centerline) . Also, for narrower profiles, the lower portion can be adjusted upwards to limit the degree of wiggle.

FIG. 68 is a partial cross-sectional view of the turbine 1424 shown in FIG. 67 . The blades are angled so that the flow indicated by the arrows is directed down and out of the turbine causing the turbine to oscillate, preferably with as little deflection as is required to prevent loss of liquid velocity or momentum. Minimizing the angular deflection of the liquid flow path from the point of contact with the turbine head to the distal end of the outlet passage allows for the most efficient use of low-pressure water flows, such as those having a pressure of 2 to 3 pounds per square inch (psi) . If the water pressure is higher than required, the water inlet can be fitted with a flow control element to regulate the amount of water flowing into the unit. It should be appreciated that the angle on blade 1432 can be modified by one skilled in the art to suit a particular application.

FIG. 69 is a perspective view of the turbine 1424 shown in FIG. 67, with parts that cannot be seen shown in dashed lines. Each vane 1432 extends radially about the post 1426 . Preferably the blades 1432 have angled sides 1440 which cause angular movement of the turbine 1424 when in contact with the flow of water. The angled sides 1440 preferably form an angle of 5 to 15 degrees, more preferably about 7 degrees, from the vertical sides. The pitch of the angle affects how fast the turbine will turn in response to the flow of water in contact with the blades. The water impinges on the tops of the blades and travels down the angled sides 1448, pushing the turbine 1424 clockwise. The vanes cooperate with wall 1434, which has an inner surface open downwards to direct water at one or more desired angles.

When water enters the housing 1412 and hits the top of the turbine 1424, the turbine will tip over to one side and swing counterclockwise within the range set by the track ring 1416 and possibly the sleeve 1418. Water is deflected from the turbine surface 1428 and through the outlet passage. Housing 1412 preferably supports sleeve 1418 with three or four radially extending thin fins 1413 extending from the inner wall of housing 1412 toward sleeve 1418 .

In a preferred embodiment, the upper portion of the swing turbine is a smooth conical surface 1428 having a slope of about 22 degrees relative to the centerline of the swing turbine. The inner walls of the deflector walls form an angle of approximately 17 degrees to the centerline of the oscillating turbine to allow the liquid to travel over and through the oscillating turbine with minimal change in direction and minimal loss of velocity or momentum. This design works particularly well in areas where water pressure is low so that further reduction in flow or velocity is minimized.

Figure 70 is a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of a showerhead. The spray head 1440 has a track surface provided by an annular ring 1442 which is secured in an annular groove 1444 formed in the surface 1416 of the housing 1412. Annular ring 1422 is preferably fabricated from a material having a smooth, non-slip surface, such as rubber or a soft polymer material, for contacting surface 1428 of turbine 1424 . The non-slip annular ring 1442 helps to ensure that the turbine rotates as it swings, rather than sliding around the track without turning.

FIG. 70 also shows the unique two-piece construction of the swing turbine 1424. Rather than having a one piece molded oscillating turbine/column, the turbine could be constructed as a vane assembly with the column assembly 1448 clipped or otherwise secured to the lower portion of the vane assembly 1446. Referring back to Figure 67, the vane assembly can also be fixed on the column assembly at the top of the vane assembly. In the case of two-piece oscillating turbines, the pieces can be held together by conventional means including, but not limited to, glue, threads, friction, ribbing, welding, and the like.

Finally, Figure 70 includes a flow control ring 1450 located in the inlet 1422 of the spray head 144 to control the flow through the spray head. Typical flow control rings work on the principle of compressing rubber. Such rings are available under the tradename Vernay from Vernay Labs of Yellow Springs, Ohio.

71A and 71B are cross-sectional views of a spray head 1460 with a liquid inlet 1422 with an optional variable cross-sectional area orifice in a fully open or restricted position, respectively. Controlling the cross-sectional area of this orifice allows the user to vary the velocity of the water to control impact and droplet size.

71A shows an inlet 1422 with a tapered or narrowed throat region 1466 communicating with a valve or insert member 1462 having a first end 1464 that can extend into the inlet 1422 to reduce the inlet 1422. effective cross-sectional area. The insertion member 1462 is preferably positioned with a knob or handle 1468 in the fully open position (meaning the inlet is not throttled by the member 1462) as shown in FIG. 72A and the throttled position as shown in FIG. 1462 designed to be fully throttled) or anywhere in between. Knob or handle 1468 is shown snap-engaged on eccentric pin 1467 which communicates with pilot hole 1469 through insert member 1462 so that when knob 1648 is turned in a first direction, pin 1467 (towards inlet 1422) lowers and pushes first end 1464 of member 1462 into inlet 1422, while turning knob 1648 in a second direction raises pin 1467 (away from inlet 1422) and pulls first end 1464 of member 1462 out of inlet 1422. The insertion member 1462 is preferably made of a deformable polymeric or rubber material, and the first end 1464 preferably includes a plurality of grooves 1465 to form a plurality of bends in contact with the narrowed region 1466 so as to easily extend into the inlet. Finger 1463 of 1422 . Alternatively, the member or valve 1462 is another type of valve known in the art, especially those capable of providing a smooth flow of liquid through the inlet 1422 .

FIG. 71B is the same as FIG. 71A except that the insertion member 1462 has been actuated (valve partially closed) to throttle the effective cross-sectional area of the inlet 1422. When the liquid pressure is greater than 15 psi, throttling of the inlet 1422 reduces the pressure differential across the flow control device 1470 and increases the velocity of the liquid through the inlet 1422 resulting in a higher velocity of the liquid exiting the apparatus. The small pressure differential causes the flow control device 1470 to rise up to the rib 1476, opening a passageway through it. When the insertion member 1462 is retracted (valve open), the velocity of the liquid drops and pressure builds up in the flow control device, closing the passage. In this way, the flow rate can be kept constant while allowing variable control of the shock regardless of the pressure of the liquid source.

72A and 72B are cross-sectional views of the liquid flow control device 1470 (see also FIG. 71A ) in open and closed positions, respectively. Flow control is based on the principle that the compression of a spring is limited within the pressure range in which it operates. A typical flow control loop (such as the one shown in Figure 70) for supplying 2.5 gallons per minute (GPM) of water works well above 15 psi or so, but when the pressure drops below 15 psi, the flow quickly lowered. Accordingly, the present invention provides a bypass to increase the total flow through liquid inlet 1422 when the liquid supply pressure is below about 15 psi for residential use, but below any minimum pressure as required for a given application.

Liquid flow control device 1470 is a floating or non-fixed member formed around the periphery of flow control ring 1450 and has a flange 1472 with a plurality of shallow ribs 1476 molded into the bottom surface of the flange. Ribs 1476 are preferably radially extending ribs that rest on "O" rings 1474 that are secured to ledges or grooves 1478 to provide fluid passages between ribs 1476 at low supply pressures to The liquid is passed through the flow control ring 1450 and the liquid flow is supplemented through the control ring 1450 . As the fluid supply pressure increases, the float control 1470 is pushed down, sinking the rib 1476 into the deformable polymer or rubber O-ring 1474 . At around 15 psi (or some other desired design pressure), the rib 1476 is completely buried in the o-ring, completely shutting off bypass flow. As the liquid supply pressure (actually differential pressure) increases, the only path for the liquid is through the control loop. This system, or an equivalent system, is beneficial in assuring optimum performance over a large pressure range beyond typical flow control loops, especially at the low pressures for which the present invention is particularly useful. Alternatively, it should be appreciated that an O-ring could also be secured to the bottom surface of the flange to communicate with a rib formed on ledge 1478 .

73 is a cross-sectional view of a showerhead 1480 having a support 1482 that couples the upper portion of the turbine 1424 to the column 1426. Bearing 1482 may be formed in any known form, but is preferably formed as a simple pin 1484 extending from post 1426 which is received in a cylindrical sleeve 1486 to allow the turbine to rotate about pin 1484. In this arrangement, the upper portion of the turbine 1424 with the sleeve 1486 can rotate at one speed while the post 1426 simultaneously rotates at another speed or not at all, thereby limiting or preventing any seizure of the turbine. Furthermore, in order for the outer surface of the deflector 1434, or by one version, the dedicated rolling portion of the turbine to begin rolling along the track 1442, the force of the flow of water on the turbine must simply overcome the friction in the bearing, not Friction that may exist between post 1426 and sleeve 1420 is overcome.

It has been found that the apparatus of the present invention produces the desired spray by producing large droplets. The large size of these droplets is mainly caused by two factors. First, the liquid only passes down one side of the turbine at a time, so that there is a large amount of liquid available to make droplets. Second, the flow ring allows for a large outlet passage with essentially no throttling.

Furthermore, it has been seen that the turbine of the present invention can be used to add air to water to a greater or lesser extent. A small amount of airing can occur because the water only passes through a portion of passage 1432, as it does at any one time on the turbine side. If the turbine is oscillating at very high speeds, it is considered useful to flow the water through the passages in bundles, ie in plug flow, with air filling between the bundles. When water bursts through the pathway, it pushes or drives the air that accompanies it.

Referring back to Figure 73, the amount of air entrainment can be increased by providing a passage for supplying air to the water flow as it passes through the turbine or through the passage. A special design or method for increasing the entrainment of air is to provide an annular notch or groove 1488 which extends partially or entirely around the turbine surface 1428 . When water flows through the gap, the air in the gap is sucked together or drawn into the water. In fact, if the gap is made around the turbine, the air can even be sucked into the gap by the action of the water. However, the discrete notch or portions of the annular notch will be filled with air as it deviates from the flow. When the gap turns to the water flow, the air in it can be drawn into the water to trap air. One or more notches or slots according to the invention can be used in combination or placed not only in the upper part of the turbine but also in the lower part of the blades, blades, deflectors or combinations thereof.

While the foregoing description is of preferred embodiments of the invention, other embodiments of the invention can be devised without departing from the essential scope thereof, which is defined by the following claims.

Claims (117)

1. A device comprising: a body with a liquid inlet; an oscillating turbine positioned downstream of the liquid inlet, the oscillating turbine being configured to rotate when impinged by flow from the liquid inlet; and A liquid redirector is placed downstream of the oscillating turbine to redirect the flow. 2. 3. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the oscillating turbine is positioned in axially spaced relationship to the liquid inlet. 3. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the liquid redirecting means is a shroud. 4. 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the swing limiting member is a stator ring. 5. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a swing limiting member engaged with the swing turbine. 6. 3. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the oscillating turbine engages the body in a post-sleeve relationship. 7. 3. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the oscillating turbine has a convex conical upper surface having angular momentum generating members formed therein. 8. 8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the angular momentum generating member is selected from the group consisting of slots, fins, vanes, and combinations thereof. 9. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: - a track formed near the liquid inlet; An oscillating turbine having a first surface extending into rolling contact with the track. 10. 9. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the oscillating turbine has a plurality of blades configured to rotate the oscillating turbine when impinged by the flow emanating from the liquid. 11. 10. The apparatus of claim 10 wherein the means for redirecting the liquid is a downwardly angled deflector. 12. 6. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein the column to sleeve relationship includes a column extending from the oscillating turbine and the sleeve supported by the body. 13. 6. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein the column-to-sleeve relationship includes a sleeve extending from the oscillating turbine and the column supported by the body. 14. 6. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein at least a portion of the post and a portion of the sleeve are frusto-conical. 15. 10. Apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that the means for redirecting the liquid is incorporated into the oscillating turbine. 16. 10. Apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that the means for redirecting the liquid is incorporated into the body. 17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the body forms a housing having a first end including a liquid inlet and a second end including a ring; and It further includes a nozzle assembly having a first end, a second end, and a liquid conduit, the first end being in column and sleeve relationship with the oscillating turbine in the housing, and a second end having a liquid inlet through which the liquid conduit passes. The ring extends to provide fluid communication between the housing and the fluid. 18. 17. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the nozzle assembly further includes a swing limiting member. 19. 18. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the swing limiting member of the nozzle assembly is a swing plate. 20. 20. The apparatus of claim 19 wherein the wobble plate has a convex frusto-conical surface that engages the housing adjacent the annulus to limit movement of the nozzle assembly. twenty one. 6. The apparatus of claim 6, further comprising an intermediate sleeve loosely positioned between the post and the sleeve. twenty two. 17. The apparatus of claim 17 wherein the liquid inlet comprises a nozzle having a plurality of outlet passages formed in the nozzle assembly. twenty three. 17. The apparatus of claim 17, further comprising a sealing member between the ring portion and the middle portion of the nozzle assembly. twenty four. 17. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the fluid conduit includes an annular passage around the periphery of the conduit. 25． 17. The apparatus of claim 17 wherein the post has a riser ring and the sleeve has an annular lip engaging the riser ring and a second swing limiting member. 26． 22. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the swing limiting member is a ring attached to the swing turbine. 27． 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the oscillating turbine provides air addition of the liquid. 28． 2. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the oscillating turbine has an annular groove to provide air addition of the liquid. 29． 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the oscillating turbine has an air supply passage formed therein to provide air addition of the liquid. 30． 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the swing limiting member is an orbital ring. 31． The apparatus of claim 19, further comprising: A device for adjusting the range to which a nozzle assembly can swing. 32． 31. The apparatus of claim 31 wherein the means for adjusting the range includes a sleeve adjacent the wobble plate and a cam engaging the sleeve. 33． 31. The apparatus of claim 31, further comprising means for adjusting the velocity of the liquid directed at the oscillating means. 34． 33. The apparatus of claim 33, wherein the means for regulating the speed is a flow control valve. 35． 33. The apparatus of claim 33, wherein the means for regulating the speed is a bypass valve. 36． The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a bypass valve having a first outlet and a second outlet, the first outlet providing selective communication from the liquid inlet to the oscillating member, and the second outlet providing flow from the liquid The selective communication of the inlet towards the periphery of the oscillating member. 37． The apparatus of claim 36, further comprising a liquid passage having a first end and a second end, the first end being in fluid communication with the second outlet of the bypass valve, the second end being in fluid communication with the second end of the nozzle assembly. The ends are in liquid communication. 38． The apparatus of claim 36, further comprising a liquid passage having a first end and a second end, the first end being in fluid communication with the second outlet of the bypass valve, the second end having one or more nozzle. 39． 17. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the liquid conduit of the nozzle assembly comprises a velocity tube. 40． The apparatus of claim 36, further comprising a third liquid outlet, the latter providing selective communication from the liquid inlet to the liquid passage, the liquid passage having a first end in fluid communication with a third liquid outlet and a nozzle The second end of the assembly is the second end in fluid communication. 41． The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising means for adjusting the range within which the nozzle assembly can oscillate. 42． The apparatus of claim 17, further comprising: a control valve arranged in the liquid inlet; a passive flow control member disposed in the fluid conduit, the passive flow control member having an opening therethrough, the opening having a first cross-sectional area; and A nozzle in fluid communication with the fluid outlet, wherein the nozzle includes a fluid passage having a cross-sectional area greater than the cross-sectional area of the opening through the passive flow control member. 43． 42. The apparatus of claim 42, wherein the passive flow control member is a flow control ring. 44． 42. The apparatus of claim 42 wherein the nozzle is a moving nozzle. 45． 44. The apparatus of claim 44, wherein the moving nozzle is an oscillating nozzle. 46． The apparatus of claim 17, further comprising: - a velocity tube formed in the liquid conduit; a nozzle having a liquid inlet in fluid communication with the velocity tube and a plurality of outlet passages; a bypass passage providing fluid communication between the chamber and the fluid inlet of the nozzle; and A bypass valve disposed in the bypass passage, wherein the bypass passage and the bypass valve supply liquid to the nozzle at a velocity lower than the velocity of the liquid passing through the velocity tube. 47． 46. The apparatus of claim 46 wherein the nozzle comprises a plurality of open slots. 48． 46. The apparatus of claim 46, wherein the nozzle is combined with an oscillating turbine. 49． The apparatus of claim 17, further comprising - a velocity tube formed in the liquid conduit; a nozzle having a liquid inlet in liquid communication with the velocity tube; and A flow restricting member combined with a nozzle, characterized in that the flow restricting member can adjustably protrude into the velocity tube to reduce the effective cross-sectional area of the velocity tube. 50． 49. The apparatus of claim 49 wherein the nozzle has a plurality of liquid outlet passages having a collective cross-sectional area greater than the cross-sectional area of the velocity tube. 51． The apparatus of claim 49, wherein the nozzle is a moving nozzle, and further comprising a gripping member coupled to the housing near the nozzle, wherein the gripping member can be pushed toward the nozzle to eliminate sports. 52． 49. The apparatus of claim 49 wherein the flow restricting member is a needle valve threadedly engaged with the nozzle. 53． 4. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the liquid redirecting means is fixed. 54． 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the liquid redirecting means is allowed limited movement. 55． The apparatus of claim 15, further comprising an orbital ring extending from the liquid redirecting means. 56． 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the liquid redirecting means oscillates independently of the oscillating turbine. 57． 3. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the deflector has an annular rocker plate freely engaging the body. 58． 3. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the deflector is located downstream of the liquid inlet and engages the body in a post-sleeve relationship. 59． 6. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the post has a rounded distal end. 60． 16. Apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the sleeve is mounted on the body by a plurality of radially extending fins. 61． The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the oscillating turbine defines a bore extending longitudinally therethrough, the sleeve defines a bore axially aligned with the oscillating turbine bore, and the sleeve includes a An element that selectively opens and closes a hole in a sleeve. 62． The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the oscillating turbine defines an aperture extending longitudinally therethrough, the sleeve defining an aperture axially aligned with the oscillating turbine aperture, and further comprising a oscillating turbine The top of the swing limiting ring is in an adjustable spaced relationship. 63． 2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the body defines space-restricting means adjacent the liquid inlet; and further comprising a housing having an annular flap freely engaged between the space-limiting means. 64． 63. The apparatus of claim 63 wherein the oscillating turbine engages the housing in a post-sleeve relationship. 65． 17. The apparatus of claim 17, further comprising a swing limiting member secured to the housing, wherein the swing limiting member surrounds the nozzle assembly. 66． 65. The apparatus of claim 65, wherein the swing limiting member is a track formed on the housing near the liquid inlet, and the swing turbine is in rolling contact with the track. 67． 65. The apparatus of claim 65 wherein the swing limiting member is an elongated cylindrical ring. 68． 65. The apparatus of claim 65, wherein the nozzle assembly has a wobble plate, and the wobble limiting member is formed as a slot in the housing for receiving the wobble plate. 69． 65. The apparatus of claim 65, wherein the nozzle assembly has a groove formed around a periphery of the nozzle assembly, and the rocker member is fixed to the housing and forms a plate extending into the groove. 70． 65. Apparatus as claimed in claim 65 wherein the swing limiting member is a wall forming part of the housing. 71． 65. The apparatus of claim 65 wherein the swing limiting member is a cylindrical sleeve disposed about a portion of the nozzle assembly. 72． 71. The apparatus of claim 71 wherein part of the nozzle assembly is a column. 73． 17. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the fluid conduit includes one or more radial passages. 74． 17. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the housing further includes an air passage extending in fluid communication with the fluid outlet. 75． 74. Apparatus according to claim 74, wherein the air passage extends into a location adjacent the liquid outlet. 76． 17. The apparatus of claim 17 wherein the nozzle assembly forms a shoulder having a larger diameter than the ring. 77． 17. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the liquid outlets form a plurality of flow paths. 78． 77. The apparatus of claim 77, wherein the flow path forms an angle with the centerline of the nozzle assembly. 79． The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the body forms a housing having a first end including a liquid inlet and a second end including a ring; and Further comprising a nozzle assembly including a first end, a second end and a liquid conduit, the first end has an oscillating turbine disposed in the housing, the second end has a liquid outlet, the liquid conduit passes through the ring Extending to provide fluid communication between the housing and the fluid outlet, characterized by a nozzle assembly rigidly coupled to the oscillating turbine. 80． 65. The apparatus of claim 65 wherein the nozzle assembly has a wobble plate and the wobble limiting member is a slot having an adjustable width. 81． 65. Apparatus according to claim 65, wherein the ring portion defines an annular groove therein facing the liquid conduit. 82． 65. Apparatus according to claim 65, wherein the liquid conduit forms an annular groove therein facing the ring. 83． 65. Apparatus according to claim 65, wherein the ring portion includes a resilient pad surrounding the liquid outlet. 84． 65. The apparatus of claim 65, wherein the fluid conduit has a slidable member therein, and a biasing member is incorporated on the slidable member to provide sliding contact with the fluid conduit as the fluid pressure changes. 85． 65. The apparatus of claim 65, wherein the swing limiting member is a track disposed about an upper portion of the nozzle assembly. 86． 65. The apparatus of claim 65, further comprising a nozzle in fluid communication with the fluid conduit, the nozzle having a pressurized fluid chamber with a plurality of outlet orifices and a depressurized fluid chamber with a plurality of outlet passages. 87． 65. The apparatus of claim 65 wherein the ring is in axially spaced relationship with the liquid inlet. 88． The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the body forms a housing having a first end including the liquid inlet and a second end including the ring; and further comprising: a basket-type assembly column extending into the annulus and forming a sleeve for receiving the column of the oscillating turbine in column-to-sleeve relationship; and A swing limiting member secured to the housing, characterized in that the swing limiting member surrounds the post of the basket assembly. 89． 88. The apparatus of claim 88, further comprising an output member rotatably coupled to the column of the basket assembly by one or more supports fixed to the housing. 90． 89. The apparatus of claim 89 wherein the output member is a ring. 91． 90. Apparatus as claimed in claim 90 wherein the ring forms the drive gear thereon. 92． 89. The apparatus of claim 89 wherein the output member is a shaft. 93． 89. The apparatus of claim 89, wherein the liquid outlet is on the side of the housing. 94． 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the body forms a track adjacent the liquid inlet, and the oscillating turbine has a first surface extending into rolling contact with the track. 95． The apparatus of claim 94, wherein the swing turbine includes a plurality of vanes and a downwardly angled annular deflector, the blades being configured such that when the swing turbine is impacted by fluid coming out of the liquid inlet, The oscillating turbine rotates. 96． 94. Apparatus according to claim 94, wherein the track has a larger diameter than the liquid inlet. 97． 94. The apparatus of claim 94 wherein the oscillating turbine engages the body support member in a loose hermaphroditic relationship downstream of the liquid inlet. 98． 94. The apparatus of claim 94 wherein the hermaphrodite relationship of the loose is a post to sleeve relationship. 99． 94. The apparatus of claim 94 wherein the first surface of the oscillating turbine is tapered. 100． 99. Apparatus according to claim 99, wherein a plurality of vanes are provided downstream of the first surface. 101． 95. The apparatus of claim 95, wherein the plurality of vanes extend radially outwardly, the distal ends of which engage the deflector. 102． 97. The apparatus of claim 97, wherein the body has an upper portion including a track that adjustably engages a lower portion including the support member to enable adjustment of the distance therebetween. 103． 102. The apparatus of claim 102, wherein the angle at which the turbine surface contacts the track can be varied by adjusting the distance between the upper and lower portions. 104． 102. The apparatus of claim 102 wherein adjusting the distance provides a variable spray width. 105． 104. The apparatus of claim 104 wherein a flow control valve is provided in the liquid inlet to provide variable liquid shock control. 106． 105. The apparatus of claim 105 wherein the flow control valve is an insert member. 107． 106. The apparatus of claim 106, further comprising a flow control means upstream of the flow valve. 108． 105. The apparatus of claim 105, wherein throttling the flow control valve increases the impingement of the liquid. 109． 107. The apparatus of claim 107 wherein the flow control means maintains a substantially constant flow of liquid through the liquid inlet. 110． 95. The apparatus of claim 95 wherein the body has a support downstream of the liquid inlet in an axially spaced relationship with the liquid inlet, and the swing turbine has a first end disposed in the support. 111． 110. The apparatus of claim 110 wherein the oscillating turbine has a second end forming a tapered surface. 112． 110. The apparatus of claim 110 wherein the support is a sleeve. 113． 110. The apparatus of claim 110, wherein the fluid passage is formed around the periphery of the turbine. 114． 113. The apparatus of claim 113 wherein the output passages are aligned to receive liquid from the liquid inlet as the liquid passes through the second end of the turbine. 115． 114. The apparatus of claim 114 wherein each fluid passage is configured to discharge fluid near the first end. 116． 111. The apparatus of claim 111, wherein the first end of the oscillating turbine is a column and the support is a sleeve. 117． 110. The apparatus of claim 110, further comprising a support connection between the first end and the second end of the swing turbine.

Images