HK1114047B

HK1114047B - Spray apparatus and dispensing tubes therefore

Info

Publication number: HK1114047B
Application number: HK08103211.9A
Authority: HK
Inventors: Joseph H. Clearman; Jack Clearman
Original assignee: 约瑟夫．H．克莱尔曼; 杰克．克莱尔曼
Priority date: 2004-08-13
Filing date: 2005-08-13
Publication date: 2011-01-21

Description

Spraying device and dispensing tube therefor

Cross Reference to Related Applications

The present application claims the benefit of priority from U.S. patent application serial No.10/917,691 filed on day 8, month 13, 2004 and U.S. provisional patent application serial No.60/699,723 filed on day 7, month 15, 2005, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to apparatus, such as showerheads and faucets, for dispensing liquids, such as water, in a desired stream of showers.

Background

Spray headers are commercially available in a variety of designs and configurations. While many showerheads are designed and sold for their ornamental style, there are a number of different showerhead mechanisms that are intended to enhance or alter one or more characteristics of the water spray pattern produced. A particular spray pattern may be described by spray width, spray distribution or trajectory, spray speed, etc. Furthermore, the spray pattern may be adapted or designed for different purposes, including for example making the skin feel more comfortable, better performance in the way of washing, massaging muscles, and saving water.

Most showerheads can be classified as either fixed or oscillating, with either fixed or adjustable openings or orifices. A fixed showerhead with fixed orifices is the simplest of all showerheads, consisting primarily of a water chamber or one or more orifices for producing a constant pattern. Fixed showerheads with adjustable orifices typically have a similar configuration, except that some of the showerheads allow for adjustment of the orifice orientation, orifice opening size and/or orifice number used. For example, spray heads currently used in new residential home configurations provide a stationary spray enclosure having a plurality of sprayers arranged in a circular pattern, wherein the speed of the spray can be adjusted by manually rotating an adjustment ring relative to the spray enclosure.

One example of a fixed showerhead is described in U.S. patent No.5,172,862 (Heimann et al). The Helman-type showerhead has a body provided with a single fluid inlet and a plurality of fluid outlets. The fluid outlet is provided in the form of a plurality of flexible tube extensions positioned in corresponding perforations in the lower elastomeric wall of the showerhead body. A movable disc or plate is provided to selectively deform or rock the flexible tube extension to "peel" scale that adheres to or forms in the extension during operation. The movement of the disc is purely manual and the plate is not adapted to change the direction, shape or spray pattern of the water stream.

These fixed showerheads cause water to flow through their restricted orifice and contact substantially the same location on the user's body in a repetitive manner. Thus, the user feels the water flow continuously over the same area, and especially in the case of high pressure or high flow rate, the user may feel that the water is going to dig into the body, thus impairing the effect produced by such a shower head. To reduce this undesirable perception, various attempts have been made to provide oscillating showerheads.

Examples of oscillating spray heads include spray heads disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,791,584(Drew et al), 3,880,357(Baisch), 4,018,385(Bruno), 4,944,457(Brewer), 5,397,064(Heitzman), 5,467,927(Lee), 5,704,547(Golan et al), and 6,360,967 (Schorn). U.S. patent No.4,944,457(Brewer) discloses a pendulum spray head that uses an impeller mounted on a gear box assembly to produce a pendulum motion of a spray nozzle. Also, U.S. patent No.5,397,064(Heitzman) discloses a showerhead having a rotary valve member driven by a worm gear and a gear reducer for alternating flow rate through the housing between high and low flow rates. These showerheads require very complex mechanical structures to accomplish the required action. As a result, these mechanisms are prone to failure due to wear of multiple components and minerals distributed throughout the structure.

U.S. Pat. No.3,691,584(Drew et al) also discloses a pendulum shower head, but utilizes spray nozzles mounted on a rod that rotates and pivots under the force on it of water entering a chamber around the rod through radially arranged apertures. While this showerhead is simpler than the Brewer and Heitzman, it still includes a large number of parts requiring precise dimensions and numerous connections between these parts. In addition, Drew showerheads rely on a small number of small openings for the water channels and experience mineral build up and particulate plugging.

U.S. patent No.5,467,927(Lee) discloses a showerhead having such an apparatus with a plurality of vanes for generating vibration and pulsation. One blade is provided with an eccentric weight causing the oscillation and the opposite blade is provided with a front flange causing the pulsation due to instantaneous blocking of the water jets. Furthermore, the structure of this shower head is rather complicated and its narrow passages suffer from mineral accumulation and particle clogging.

U.S. patent No.5,704,547(Golan et al) discloses a showerhead including a housing, a worm gear and a fluid exhaust such that fluid flowing past the worm gear causes rotation of the worm gear. The rotating worm gear may be used to cause rotation of the fluid displacement body and/or side-to-side motion in a pendulum fashion.

U.S. patent No.6,360,967(Schorn) discloses a showerhead having a plurality of gear disks rotated to cause oscillation of a plurality of nozzle elements. The turbine impeller and the gear plate continuously rotate about their axes while fluid flows through the showerhead, limiting the number of nozzle elements that can be practically used and further limiting the incorporation of spray regulation features.

Accordingly, there is a need for an improved apparatus that can deliver water in a continuously variable manner, such as oscillating, circling, rotating, and the like. It is desirable that the apparatus be of simple design and construction with minimal restriction to water flow and open conduits, thereby reducing the likelihood or extent of clogging. It is desirable that the apparatus employ a design that facilitates easy cleaning of the fluid discharge nozzle or orifice, resulting in complete or partial blockage (e.g., by mineral precipitation) that does occur. It is desirable that the device be able to be accommodated in a small housing, thereby providing a high degree of design flexibility. Finally, it is desirable to have a rotary drive that operates independently of the extent to which the rotary drive is allowed to tilt.

More shower heads, whether fixed or oscillating, deliver fluid in a predetermined manner. The user is not allowed to change the fluid delivery characteristics of the showerhead except perhaps by rotating a control valve that communicates fluid to the showerhead to increase or decrease the fluid flow rate. U.S. patent No.5,467,927(Lee) discloses a showerhead that allows for adjustment between a vibrating (i.e., massaging) mode and a non-vibrating mode. However, no showerhead is available that allows for adjustment of other fluid delivery characteristics. U.S. patent No.5,397,064(Heitzman, also described above) discloses another showerhead that allows for adjustment of the shape of the spray pattern produced. The Heitzman showerhead employs a control ring for selectively rotating a pair of cam rings, which ultimately results in twisting of bundled together flow restrictor tubes to achieve a desired spray width.

Accordingly, there is also a need for an improved showerhead or showerhead that allows a user to adjust or control the delivery of fluid. Fluid delivery characteristics particularly desirable for regulation include spray width, spray velocity and spray flow rate. It is desirable that the showerhead deliver water in a desired manner even at low pressures and flow rates required to conserve water. It is also desirable that the showerhead have a simple design and construction so that restriction to water flow is minimized and the degree of facsimile is improved so that each of a plurality of discharge nozzles or orifices can be controlled.

There is also a need for a spray device, or showerhead, that facilitates directional control of its spray stream without the need for a ball or a rotatably mounted housing. There is a related need for a liquid distribution tube (suitable for a spraying device) with special flexibility characteristics that can be used advantageously. There is also a need for such a device which is adapted to be mounted in a wall, thereby saving space in, for example, a closed shower enclosure.

Definition of

The specific terms used throughout this specification are defined for the first time as follows:

"nutation" means a rocking motion of the axis of the rotating body, such as a swinging motion.

"orbital motion" means rotation along a generally circular or elliptical path.

"wiggle" means moving or traveling back and forth at two locations through one or more different paths and may include, for example, at least one of circular, elliptical, and linear motion.

"planar" means lying in a generally flat or horizontal surface, frame, or structure, and may include, for example, flat panels, plates, grids, and screens.

"rotation" means rotation or motion characterized by rotation or motion about an axis or center, and may include, for example, spinning, nutating, or a combination thereof.

"spin" means to rotate on or about an axis.

"rocking" means moving or advancing with an irregular rocking or shaking motion and includes the motion of a circular member rolling on its edge along a surface following a circular path.

Disclosure of Invention

The above needs, problems, and deficiencies in the prior art, as well as others, are addressed by the various aspects and embodiments of the present invention.

According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a spraying device comprising a housing having a fluid inlet and a plurality of fluid outlets, and a worm gear supported for rotational movement within the housing under the action of a flow of fluid from the fluid inlet to one or more of the fluid outlets. A manifold is operatively connected to the worm gear for oscillatory movement relative to the housing upon rotational movement of the worm gear, and a plurality of tubes, each disposed in one of the fluid outlets, for dispersing fluid from the housing. At least a subset of the plurality of tubes is operatively connected to the manifold for coordinated movement of the connected tubes in the respective plurality of fluid outlets.

It is presently preferred that at least a portion of the housing is substantially cylindrical. In various embodiments, the fluid inlet of the housing directs fluid toward the worm gear in a direction selected from the group consisting of axial, radial, tangential, and combinations thereof.

In a particular embodiment of the spray device of the invention, the manifold is operatively connected to a worm gear for oscillating movement within the housing under the influence of rotational movement of the worm gear. The rotational motion of the worm gear may include spinning, nutating, or a combination thereof. Nutation of the worm gear may include oscillatory motion. The oscillating motion of the manifold may include at least one of circular, elliptical, and linear motion.

In a particular embodiment of the spraying device of the present invention, the dispensing tube may be rigid or flexible, and the flexibility is preferably provided by manufacturing said tube from a material comprising a natural polymer, a synthetic polymer, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, the tubes are each sealingly arranged in one of the fluid outlets, but this is not essential.

In some embodiments, the subsets of the plurality of tubes operatively connected to the manifold are positioned relative to each other in a parallel, diverging, converging, or a combination thereof configuration.

In a different embodiment of the spraying device of the invention, the worm wheel comprises a head having at least two angled or curved blades on its upper surface, and the head is radially symmetrical.

In certain embodiments, the manifold includes a first planar member having a generally central flow restriction orifice. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the integrated piece need not feature a planar piece (i.e., curved-like components, as well as other shaped components, may also be used). The worm wheel includes: a head having at least one angled or curved blade on an upper surface thereof; and a shaft depending from the worm gear head and extending at least partially through the flow restriction orifice in the first planar member to operatively connect the hub with the worm gear. The worm gear shaft is preferably disposed in an opening formed through a lower portion of the worm gear head, and is preferably fixed to rotate with the worm gear head. Alternatively, the worm shaft may be integrally formed with the worm head.

In a particular fixed shaft embodiment, the spray device further comprises a second planar member sealingly mounted for relative rotation within the housing between the manifold and the fluid inlet. The second planar member includes a generally central flow restriction orifice in which the worm gear shaft is supported for rotation, a first plurality of flow restriction orifices and a second plurality of flow restriction orifices. An upstream portion of each of the connected tubes is secured in one of the first flow restriction ports of the second planar member and a downstream portion of each of the connected tubes extends at least partially through one of the fluid outlets. Thus, fluid flowing into the fluid inlet is directed through the connected tube via the first flow restriction orifice.

In some of these particular embodiments, the second subset of tubes is not connected to the manifold. An upstream portion of each unconnected tube is secured in one of the second flow restriction ports of the second planar member and a downstream portion extends at least partially through one of the fluid outlets. Thus, fluid flowing into the fluid inlet is directed through the unconnected tube via the second flow restriction orifice. The housing preferably defines a flow passage for selectively communicating the first and second flow restriction ports of the second planar member. Accordingly, the spray device of these particular embodiments preferably further comprises a valve assembly for directing fluid in the flow passage to any one of: a first flow restriction orifice of the second planar member; a second flow restriction orifice of the second planar member; or a combination thereof.

The worm shaft may be provided with a cam portion positioned below and/or opposite the worm head so that the cam portion rotates together with the worm head. The cam portion is supported within the restrictor aperture of the first planar member. The cam portion may optionally be integral with the worm gear head.

In a particular one of these embodiments, the cam portion has an inclined vertical profile and further comprises means for adjusting the height of the hub relative to the cam portion so that the hub engages different heights of the inclined vertical profile of the cam portion. This makes it possible to adjust the swing range of the integrated member due to the rotation of the worm wheel.

In certain of these embodiments, the shaft is configured to nutate within the restrictor hole of the manifold.

In other of these embodiments, the worm gear further includes an eccentric or camming portion supported by the shaft for rotation within the metering hole of the hub to spin the worm gear about the axis of the shaft causing the eccentric/camming portion of the worm gear to nutate.

In still other of these embodiments, the shaft is a crankshaft having a first end portion mounted on the worm gear head and a second end portion rotatably supported within a substantially central restricted flow aperture of the first planar member. The second end portion of the crankshaft is axially offset from an axis of the crankshaft by bending of the crankshaft between the first end portion and the second end portion. The crankshaft is supported for rotation within the housing about a central axis by a second planar member rotationally sealed within the housing between the manifold and the worm gear head. The second planar member preferably includes a generally central flow restriction orifice in which the crankshaft is supported for rotation and a plurality of eccentric flow restriction orifices therein. An upstream portion of each tube is secured in one of the eccentric flow restriction ports of the second planar member and a downstream portion of each tube extends at least partially through one of the fluid outlets. Thus, fluid flowing into the fluid inlet is directed through the tube via the eccentric flow restriction orifice.

In a particular one of these embodiments, the spraying device of the present invention further comprises an adjustable manifold disposed within the housing above the second planar member for directing fluid from the inlet to any one of: an outer subset of the plurality of eccentric flow restriction ports of the second planar member; and an inner subset of the plurality of eccentric flow restriction ports of the second planar member; or a combination thereof.

In certain of these embodiments, the worm gear includes a centrifugal member supported by the worm gear shaft relative to the worm gear head such that the centrifugal member rotates with the worm gear head. The eccentric is preferably supported within the restricted flow aperture of the first planar member and nutates as a result of rotation of the worm gear head, thereby causing a revolution of the hub.

In a particular one of these embodiments, means are also provided for selectively directing the downstream end portions of the plurality of tubes. Thus, each of the connected tubes preferably comprises an elastomeric material. The guide means preferably comprises a set of spaced apart ridges on the outer surface of each of the connected tubes with side grooves formed between the ridges. Each of the connected tubes is disposed in a plurality of eccentric flow restricting orifices formed in the first planar member to connect the first planar member with the plurality of connected tubes via the side grooves. An internally threaded sleeve is supported for rotation about an externally threaded sidewall of the housing. The sleeve has an annular groove formed in an inner surface thereof, and the first planar member is circumferentially supported in the annular groove. Thus, rotation of the sleeve causes vertical movement thereof, exerting a vertical force on the connected tubes at the respective side grooves.

As mentioned above, certain embodiments of the spray device of the present invention further comprise a second planar member sealingly mounted for relative rotation within the housing and between the manifold and the fluid inlet. The second planar member preferably includes a generally central flow restriction orifice within which the worm gear shaft is supported for rotation and a plurality of eccentric flow restriction orifices therein. An upstream portion of each tube is secured to one of the eccentric flow restriction orifices of the second planar member, and a downstream portion of each tube extends at least partially through one of the fluid outlets. Thus, fluid flowing into the fluid inlet is directed through the tube via the eccentric flow restriction orifice.

In certain of these embodiments, the housing forms a flow passage for communicating with the eccentric flow restriction orifice of the second planar member, and the spray apparatus further comprises a valve assembly for directing fluid in the flow passage to either: an outer subset of the plurality of eccentric flow restriction ports of the second planar member; an inner subset of the plurality of eccentric flow restriction ports of the second planar member; or a combination thereof. The valve assembly preferably includes a stop valve having a movable valve stem for closing a portion of the flow passage, and an actuator for moving the valve stem as desired to direct fluid flow.

In some of these flow passage embodiments, the spray apparatus of the present invention further comprises a third planar member for removably covering an inner subset of the plurality of eccentric flow restriction orifices of the second planar member. The third planar member has an inclined rib at least a portion thereof. The movable valve stem is preferably provided with a plug and a distal end such that movement of the valve stem in a radially inward direction causes the plug to close a portion of the flow passage communicating with an outer subset of the plurality of eccentric flow restricting orifices of the second planar member. Movement of the valve stem in a radially inward direction preferably causes the distal end of the valve stem to engage the angled rib to detach the third planar member from the inner subset of the plurality of eccentric flow-restricting orifices of the second planar member before the plug closes a portion of the flow passage communicating with the outer subset of the plurality of eccentric flow-restricting orifices of the second planar member.

In a particular embodiment of the spraying device of the invention, the manifold comprises a stack of complementary upper and lower plates, each having a plurality of slits. The slits of the upper plate overlie and are oppositely positioned relative to the corresponding slits of the lower plate to form a common restricted slit region through the upper and lower plates for engagement with the corresponding connected fluid distribution tubes by the extension of the corresponding connected tubes through the common slit region. Preferably, at least one of the complementary plates is rotatable relative to the other of the complementary plates for moving the connected tubes inwardly or outwardly relative to the central axis.

Particular embodiments of the spray device of the present invention include additional planar members supported for limited rotation about a central axis within the housing. The additional planar member includes a plurality of off-center angularly positioned slits for engaging portions of the respective connected fluid distribution tubes between the upstream and downstream portions thereof by extending the connected tubes through the off-center slits of the additional planar member. The additional planar member is rotatable relative to the housing for moving the connected pipe sections inwardly or outwardly relative to the central axis. This rotation is preferably achieved by means of an actuator supported on the housing.

In a particular embodiment of the spray device of the invention, the worm wheel shaft is supported in the manifold and the flow restriction orifice of the worm wheel such that the worm wheel is rotatably supported by the manifold.

In a particular embodiment of the sprinkling apparatus of the invention, the manifold engages with each tube at a similar position of each connected tube. The engagement positions may be: at or near the downstream portion of each connected tube; intermediate the downstream and upstream portions of each connected tube; or at or near the upstream portion of each connected tube.

In the latter case, the manifold preferably includes a plurality of flow-restricting orifices, and the upstream portion of each of the connected tubes is secured in one of the flow-restricting orifices of the manifold. In this case, it is also preferred that the downstream portion of each tube extends at least partially through one of the outlets, and that each outlet is provided with an O-ring by which a portion of each tube is pivotally supported between the upstream and downstream portions. There are a plurality of sleeves that are preferably each fitted over one of the tubes between the manifold and the outlet through which the tube extends.

It is also preferred that the swinging of the manifold causes the downstream portions of each of the connected tubes to swing in unison. Such oscillation preferably includes at least one of circular, elliptical, and linear movement of the downstream portion of each of the connected tubes.

In a particular embodiment of the spraying device of the invention, the tube has a downstream portion extending at least partially through the respective fluid outlet. A plurality of flexible nozzles are preferably each supported within the fluid outlet relative to the downstream portion of the tube. The nozzle may have an internal profile sized and shaped to provide a desired range of movement of the nozzle under the action of movement of the downstream portion of the connected tube within the fluid outlet. Alternatively, the downstream portion of the connected tube may have an outer profile sized and shaped to provide a desired range of movement of the nozzle upon movement of the downstream portion of the connected tube relative to the fluid outlet. Thus, in one particular embodiment, the movement of the downstream portion of the connected tube within the flexible nozzle forms a generally conical fluid spray pattern for each nozzle.

In a particular embodiment of the spraying device of the invention, the connected fluid distribution tube is integrally formed with the manifold.

In a particular embodiment of the spraying device of the invention, the manifold is planar and is supported for rotation within the housing about a central axis. The manifold of certain of these embodiments includes a plurality of angularly positioned slits for engaging with the portion between the upstream and downstream portions of the respective connected tubes by extending portions of the connected tubes through the plurality of angularly positioned slits. The manifold is rotatable relative to the housing for moving the connected pipe sections. The housing preferably supports an actuator for rotating the manifold.

In a particular embodiment, the spray device of the invention further comprises an actuator for limiting the oscillating movement of the manifold, thereby limiting the movement of the connected tubes.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a spray device comprising a housing having a fluid inlet and a plurality of tubes for dispersing fluid from the housing. A manifold is operatively connected to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes for coordinated movement of the connected tubes in accordance with movement of the manifold. An actuator is also provided for moving the manifold.

In a particular embodiment of the spraying device of the invention, the manifold comprises a plurality of angularly positioned slits for engagement with the portion between the upstream and downstream portions of the respective connected tubes by an extension of the connected tubes passing through the plurality of angularly positioned slits. The cartridge is rotatable relative to the housing by the actuator to move the connected tube sections. The actuator preferably comprises a slidable operating rod extending through a slot in a side wall of the housing. The lever has an inner portion engaged with the manifold and an outer portion disposed outside the housing.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a spray device comprising a housing having a fluid inlet and a plurality of fluid outlets, and a plurality of tubes each disposed exclusively in one of the fluid outlets for dispensing fluid from the housing. A manifold is operatively connected to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes for coordinated movement of the connected tubes in the respective plurality of fluid outlets in accordance with movement of the manifold. An actuator is also provided for moving the manifold.

In various embodiments of the spray device of the present invention, the actuator comprises a worm gear supported for rotational movement within the housing under the action of fluid flow from the fluid inlet to the one or more fluid outlets, and the manifold is operatively connected to the worm gear for oscillatory movement relative to the housing under the action of rotational movement of the worm gear.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of spraying a fluid, comprising the steps of: the method includes the steps of delivering pressurized fluid to a plurality of distribution tubes (e.g., via a housing supporting the tubes), connecting at least a subset of the plurality of tubes together (e.g., via an manifold) to move the connected tubes in a coordinated manner under an actuation force, and applying the actuation force to the connected tubes (e.g., via an actuator such as a worm gear supported within the housing) to achieve a desired spray of fluid through the tubes.

In a further aspect, the present invention provides a spraying device comprising: a housing having a fluid inlet; an actuator supported within the housing for rotational movement by fluid flowing from the fluid inlet; a manifold operatively connected to the actuator for oscillatory movement relative to the housing upon rotational movement of the actuator; and a plurality of tubes for spraying fluid from the housing. At least a subset of the plurality of tubes is operatively connected to the manifold for coordinated movement of the connected tubes.

A further aspect of the invention provides a spraying device comprising a housing having a fluid inlet and a plurality of tubes for dispensing fluid from the housing. A means is also provided for converting energy from the fluid conveyed through the fluid inlet into coordinated movement of at least a subset of the plurality of tubes. The conversion means preferably comprises an actuator (e.g. a worm gear) and an integrated part according to one or more of the various embodiments described above (and equivalents thereto).

In another aspect, the present invention provides a spraying device comprising: a housing having a fluid inlet; a plurality of tubes for dispensing fluid from the housing; and an integration operatively connected to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes for coordinated movement of the connected tubes according to movement of the integration. An actuator is employed to move the manifold. The manifold is operatively connected to the dispensing tube at different locations along the tube, such as intermediate the ends of the respectively connected tubes or near the dispensing end of the respectively connected tubes.

The dispensing tube may be flexible, allowing for easy adjustment of the fluid dispensing direction or shape by applying a lateral force at one or more locations along the length of the tube. Such flexibility also facilitates amplifying changes in direction/shape of the dispensed fluid stream, for example, when the tube is subjected to a lateral force on one side and an opposite pivoting force (axially offset from the lateral force) on the other side.

The actuator may include a worm gear supported within the housing for rotational movement in the event of fluid flow from the fluid inlet. In this case, the manifold may be operatively connected to the worm gear for vibrational movement relative to the housing under the rotational movement of the worm gear. This results in a coordinated swinging movement of the connected dispensing tubes.

The manifold may include a planar member having a generally central flow restriction orifice. In this case, the worm gear may include an output shaft having a cam portion that extends at least partially through the central restricted orifice of the planar member to operatively connect the worm gear to the manifold.

More specifically, the cam portion may have an inclined profile. In this case, the spraying device of the present invention may further comprise a mechanism for adjusting the engagement position (e.g. height) of the cartridge with respect to the cam portion so that the cartridge engages with a different part of the inclined profile of the cam portion. In this way, the range of oscillation of the manifold (and, therefore, the connected dispensing tube) produced by rotation of the worm gear can be adjusted.

The spraying device of the invention may further comprise one or more concentration elements (focusingement) which engage laterally around the dispensing tube. The concentration member may be moved by adjusting the engagement position of the manifold with the worm gear to adjust the fluid distribution direction of the fluid distribution pipe in a uniformly converging (or diverging) manner, i.e., to concentrate the spray shape formed by the fluid beams distributed from the plurality of distribution pipes.

The concentrating element may comprise flexible arms associated with one or more distribution tubes. In this case, each concentrator element may be connected between a movable part of the spray device and a fixed part of the spray device. The movable member may be a movable exit plate disposed below the planar member of the manifold. The securing member may be a planar member mounted transversely within the housing above the manifold.

Alternatively, each concentration element may be associated with a subset (e.g. three) of the plurality of distribution tubes forming a group. In this case, each of the concentrating elements is operable to adjust the fluid distribution slits of the set of distribution tubes in a uniformly converging (or diverging) manner. The concentrating element may be integrally formed with the manifold. In addition, each focusing element may be operable to produce a high impact spray, a soft impact spray, or a combination thereof, depending on the group with which it is associated. Additionally, a plurality of such concentrating elements may be operated in a uniformly converging manner to produce high impact sprays, soft impact sprays, or a combination thereof according to their respective groups (i.e., the output of the groups is concentrated in a collected manner).

Each connected dispensing tube of the spraying device of the invention preferably swings about a given position, for example a position defined by its own structural rigidity when unloaded. A mechanism may be provided for adjusting the designated position of each dispensing tube to adjust the fluid dispensing direction (i.e., pointing) of the dispensing tube in a uniform manner.

The spraying device housing may be adapted to be fixedly mounted on a wall. In this case, the position adjustment mechanism can be operated independently of the movement of the housing (i.e., avoiding the need for a typical swivel/ball mount).

The spray housing may be integrally formed with a handle for gripping by a user, such as in the case of a hand-held spray device.

Alternatively, the spray device housing may be adapted for use in kitchen faucet applications (as compared to, for example, for wall-mounted or hand-held spray devices). One example of such a spray device housing is associated with a spray device comprising: the system includes a housing having a fluid inlet, a plurality of tubes for dispensing fluid from the housing, and a vent for dispensing a gas-liquid mixture from the housing. A manifold is operatively connected to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes for coordinated movement of the connected tubes in accordance with movement of the manifold. An actuator is employed to move the manifold. A valve assembly is employed to regulate the flow of liquid between the dispensing tube and the venting device. The actuator is preferably centrally located with respect to the dispensing tube. The dispensing tube may be flexible, allowing for easy adjustment of the liquid dispensing direction or shape by applying a lateral force at one or more locations along the length of the tube.

In another aspect, the invention provides a spraying device comprising a housing adapted to be mounted within a wall space exposed through an opening in a wall. The housing has a fluid inlet for receiving a fluid supply conduit and an open end for aligning with a wall opening. A faceplate is employed for engaging the open end of the housing to control the movement/direction of the dispensing tube therethrough. The face plate has a plurality of fluid outlets. A plurality of tubes are employed for dispensing fluid from the housing via the fluid outlet of the panel. The manifold is operatively connected to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes for coordinated movement of the connected tubes in accordance with movement of the manifold. An actuator is used to move the manifold. The actuator may include a lever connected to the manifold and extending through a slot portion of the panel for applying a sliding force to the manifold. The dispensing tube may be flexible, allowing for easy adjustment of the fluid dispensing direction or shape by applying a lateral force at one or more locations along the length of the tube.

Alternatively, the actuator may comprise a worm gear supported within the housing for rotational movement under the action of fluid flow from the fluid inlet to the one or more fluid outlets. In this case, the hub is operatively connected to the worm gear for oscillatory movement relative to the housing upon rotational movement of the worm gear.

In another aspect, the invention provides a spraying device comprising a container box adapted to be mounted within a wall space exposed through an opening in a wall. The container box has a neck portion for receiving a fluid supply conduit within a wall space and an open end for aligning with the wall opening. A housing is employed for assembly with the cartridge. The outer shell has an open end for alignment with the open end of the container box, and a fluid inlet defined by a fitting adapted to sealingly fit in the neck portion of the container box. A panel is employed for engaging the open end of the housing. The face plate has a plurality of fluid outlets. A plurality of tubes are employed for dispensing fluid from the housing via the fluid outlet of the panel. The manifold is operatively connected to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes for coordinated movement of the connected tubes in accordance with movement of the manifold. An actuator is used to move the manifold. The actuator may comprise, for example, a lever connected to the manifold and extending through a slot portion of the panel for applying a sliding force to the manifold. The dispensing tube may be flexible, allowing for easy adjustment of the fluid dispensing direction or shape by applying a lateral force at one or more locations along the length of the tube.

In a further aspect, the present invention provides a spraying device comprising a housing having a fluid inlet for passing fluid to a chamber thereof, and an open end opposite the fluid inlet. A plurality of tubes are employed for dispensing fluid from the chamber of the housing. A manifold is supported at least in part by the housing through the open end of the housing and has a plurality of flow restriction ports through which the plurality of tubes pass for coordinated movement of the connected tubes in accordance with movement of the manifold. An actuator is provided for moving the manifold. The dispensing tube may be flexible, allowing for easy adjustment of the fluid dispensing direction and shape by applying lateral forces at one or more locations along the length of the tube.

The manifold of the spray device of the present invention may comprise a planar member and the actuator may comprise an adjustable control ring which at least partially supports the planar member. More specifically, the control ring may be adjustably supported by the housing. There may be a spring seat releasably secured to the control ring at one or more locations relative to the housing. The hub may be integrally formed with the control ring.

In yet another aspect, the present invention provides a dispensing tube for directing fluid of a spraying device. The dispensing tube of the present invention comprises a tubular body and a vent cock for insertion into one end of the tubular body. The tap may alternatively be integrally formed with a transverse planar member in which the tube is mounted. The tubular body may be flexible, allowing for easy adjustment of fluid dispensing direction and shape by applying lateral forces at one or more locations along the length of the tubular body. The tap has one or more first channels for guiding water and one or more second channels for guiding air. At least one of the tube and the tap is adapted to be connected to a part of the spraying device. The first channel may have a cross-section that is one of a circular cross-section, an axial cross-section, a curvilinear cross-section, and combinations thereof. The second channel may have a cross-section that is one of a circular cross-section, an axial cross-section, a curvilinear cross-section, and combinations thereof. The second channel is preferably separate from the first channel.

In yet another aspect, the present invention provides a dispensing tube for directing fluid from a spray device. The dispensing tube of the present invention comprises a flexible tube body having a non-uniform rigidity over its circumference such that the application of a uniform lateral force over said circumference will result in a non-uniform lateral bending of said tube body. This uneven rigidity may be achieved by the tube body having a circumference with an uneven wall thickness. Alternatively, the non-uniform rigidity may be achieved by the tube body having non-uniformly distributed ribs around its circumference.

In yet another aspect, the present invention provides a dispensing tube for directing fluid from a spray device. The dispensing tube of the present invention comprises a flexible tubular body which is non-uniformly rigid along its length such that application of a lateral force to the body will cause non-uniform bending of the body along its length. This uneven rigidity may be achieved by the tube body having a non-uniform wall thickness along its length. Alternatively, this uneven rigidity may be achieved by the tube having an uneven rib distribution along its length.

In yet another aspect, the present invention provides a dispensing tube for directing fluid from a spray device. The dispensing tube includes a body having an inlet for receiving a fluid and an outlet for dispensing the fluid. The body is flexible along substantially its entire length so that the outlet of the body can be readily pointed under the application of a transverse force at one or more locations along the length of the body. The tube may comprise a natural polymer, a synthetic polymer, or a combination thereof.

Each flexible dispensing tube may further include a strap attached at or near the entrance to its body for pivotally mounting the body within the housing. The strap may be pivotally mounted on the tube. The strap may be flexible over at least a majority of its length, or rigid. In the latter case, the rigidity of the belt may be achieved by a reinforcement.

Drawings

The invention, which has been briefly described above, is described in more detail by referring to embodiments of the invention that are illustrated 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.

FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a spray device according to the present invention employing a rocking worm gear;

FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a spray apparatus according to the present invention employing a slotted worm gear to produce the oscillating motion of the manifold;

FIG. 2A shows a top view of a worm gear employed in the spraying apparatus of FIG. 2;

FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of a spray device, which is similar to that of FIG. 2, but which employs a different worm gear design;

FIG. 4 is a modified form of the spraying apparatus of FIG. 2 in which the apparatus is provided with a flow diverter to produce a massage effect;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of a spray apparatus according to the present invention having a worm gear rotating about a central axis and utilizing a cam action to produce an oscillating motion of the manifold;

6A-B illustrate examples of fluid distribution tubes according to the present invention, each having a resilient sleeve nozzle;

FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of a spray device similar to that of FIG. 5, but having a fluid distribution tube integrally formed with the manifold and disposed in a resilient sleeve nozzle similar to that of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of a spray apparatus, which is similar to that of FIG. 7, but which employs a multi-lobed worm gear;

FIGS. 9 and 10 show detailed cross-sectional side views of the fluid distribution tube and resilient sleeve nozzle of the embodiment of FIGS. 7-8 in a designated position (FIG. 9) and an offset position (FIG. 10);

11-11A show detailed cross-sectional side views of an alternative fluid distribution tube and resilient sleeve nozzle, as compared to FIGS. 9-10;

12-14 show cross-sectional side and top views of another embodiment of a spray device according to the present invention employing an enclosed worm gear and an integrated member positioned below the flow chamber of the spray device;

15-15A show a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of a spraying device according to the invention, which is similar to that of FIG. 12, but which employs a camshaft rather than a crankshaft and is also equipped with a deflector system for achieving a massaging effect;

FIG. 16 shows a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of a spray apparatus according to the present invention, which is similar to that of FIG. 12, but which employs a half-open worm gear design rather than a closed worm gear design;

17A-B are sequential views of the spray apparatus of FIG. 16 showing movement of the fluid distribution tube under rotation of the worm gear crankshaft and oscillation of the assembly;

FIG. 18 shows a top view of a worm gear employed in the spraying apparatus of FIG. 16;

FIG. 19 illustrates an example of a typical conical spray pattern that may be obtained using the fluid distribution tube of the spray apparatus of FIG. 16;

FIG. 20 shows a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of a spray apparatus according to the present invention employing a rocking worm gear for oscillating the manifold below the flow chamber of the positioned apparatus;

FIG. 21 shows a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of a spray apparatus similar to that of FIG. 16, except employing a camshaft rather than a crankshaft, and also configured with a system for varying the angle of oscillation through the manifold and the spray produced by the fluid distribution tube;

FIGS. 22A-B show a cross-sectional side view and a top view of another embodiment of a spray apparatus similar to that of FIG. 20, but employing a different rocking worm gear;

23A-B show a cross-sectional side view and a top view of another embodiment of a spray apparatus employing a manifold having two slit plates to direct a fluid distribution tube to one of a plurality of designated radial positions;

23C-D illustrate an alternative embodiment of a cam structure for performing the guide function using the two slotted plates of the manifold of FIG. 23A;

24A-B show a cross-sectional side view and a top view of another embodiment of a spray apparatus according to the present invention employing a manifold having a slit plate to direct a fluid distribution tube to one of a plurality of designated radial positions;

FIGS. 25-26 show the spray apparatus of FIG. 24 with the fluid distribution tubes directed to achieve a wide (FIG. 25) and narrow (FIG. 26) specified spray width;

FIGS. 27-28 show respective wide and narrow designated spray widths obtainable by the spray apparatus of FIG. 24;

FIGS. 29A-B show cross-sectional side views of another embodiment of a spray apparatus in accordance with the present invention in respective wide and narrow spray positions, the embodiment being similar to that of FIG. 24 except that the fluid distribution tube is not equipped with an upper retaining sleeve as in FIG. 24;

FIG. 30 is a view similar to FIG. 29A but showing a spray pattern formed by a different fluid distribution tube;

FIGS. 31A-B show a cross-sectional side view and a (partial) top view of another embodiment of a spray device according to another aspect of the invention employing a manifold located below the flow chamber of the spray device, but without a worm gear;

FIG. 32 shows the spray apparatus of FIG. 31A disposed in a narrow spray position opposite the normal spray position of FIG. 31A;

33A-B show cross-sectional side and top views of an alternative embodiment of a spraying device according to the present invention employing an integrated piece disposed inside the flow chamber;

FIG. 34 shows a cross-sectional side view of an alternative embodiment of a spray apparatus according to the present invention employing a manifold disposed below the flow chamber and an alternative system for directing the fluid distribution conduit;

34A-B show detailed side views of a fluid distribution conduit positioned for respective wide and narrow spray patterns;

FIG. 35 shows an alternative embodiment of a spray device similar to that of FIG. 29, but also provided with a deflector system for achieving a massage effect;

FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional top view of the spraying device of FIG. 35;

FIG. 37 shows a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of a spraying device according to the invention, which is similar to that of FIG. 15, but which employs an alternative deflector system for achieving a massage effect;

FIGS. 38-39 show sequential, cross-sectional side views of another embodiment of a spray apparatus in accordance with the present invention, which is similar to that of FIG. 37, but which employs an alternative deflector system for achieving a massage effect;

40A-B show sequential, cross-sectional side views of an alternative spraying device according to the present invention employing an enclosed, circumferentially driven worm gear and an alternative deflector system for achieving a massage effect;

FIG. 40C shows a cross-sectional top view of the spraying device of FIGS. 40A-B;

40D-E show cross-sectional views of the central fluid distribution tube of the spray apparatus of FIGS. 40A-B in respective spray and massage settings;

FIGS. 41-42 show cross-sectional side and top views of an alternative spray apparatus according to the present invention similar to that of FIGS. 38-39 but employing a crankshaft rather than a camshaft and an alternative deflector system for achieving a massaging effect;

43-44 show sequential, cross-sectional side views of a selectable spray device employing a combination of fixed and movable fluid distribution tubes and a selectable flow diverter system for achieving a massage effect in accordance with the present invention in respective fixed and scanning spray modes;

FIG. 45 shows a cross-sectional side view of another, simplified alternative embodiment of a spray device employing an integrated piece disposed within a flow chamber;

FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional schematic view of a spray device employing a cam worm gear (calibrated turbine) for oscillating a plurality of fluid distribution tubes in a coordinated manner via a manifold;

FIG. 47A is a cross-sectional schematic view of a spray device similar to that of FIG. 46, but employing a different engagement mechanism between the manifold and the fluid distribution tube;

FIG. 47B is a partial cross-sectional schematic view taken along line 47B-47B in FIG. 47A;

FIG. 47C shows a corresponding spray pattern of some of the fluid distribution tubes of the spray apparatus of FIG. 47A;

48A-B are cross-sectional schematic views of an alternative spray device employing an isolation valve and chamber, and a variable worm-cam interface (in terms of ON/OFF only) for adjusting the degree of oscillation imparted to the dispensing tube by the manifold;

49A-B are cross-sectional schematic views of an alternative spray device employing a variable worm cam interface for adjusting the degree of oscillation imparted to the dispensing tube by the manifold;

FIGS. 50-52 are cross-sectional schematic views of alternative spray devices, each employing an alternative variable worm cam interface for adjusting the degree of oscillation imparted to the dispensing tube by the manifold;

FIG. 53 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative spray apparatus similar to that of FIGS. 49A-B, but which also employs isolation valves and chambers in a manner similar to that of FIGS. 48A-B;

FIG. 54 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative spraying apparatus employing valve assemblies for controlling fluid flow into the respective massage, vent and spray chambers and an alternative variable worm cam interface for adjusting the degree of oscillation imparted to the dispensing tube by the manifold;

FIG. 55 is a cross-sectional schematic view of an alternative spray apparatus employing a variable worm gear cam interface for adjusting the degree of oscillation imparted to the dispensing tube by the manifold, the interface cooperating with a focusing mechanism for consistently converging/diverging the dispensing tube to achieve a focusing effect;

FIG. 56A is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative spray apparatus employing a variable worm-cam interface for adjusting the degree of oscillation imparted to the dispensing tube by a flexible, spider-like manifold, which also serves as a focusing mechanism for consistently converging/diverging the dispensing tubes to achieve a focusing effect;

FIG. 56B is a bottom view of the flexible, spider-like manifold employed by the spray device of FIG. 56A;

FIG. 57 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative spray apparatus employing a variable worm gear cam interface for adjusting the degree of oscillation imparted to the dispensing tube by the manifold, the interface cooperating with a flexible, spider-like focusing mechanism for consistently converging/diverging the dispensing tube to achieve a focusing effect;

FIG. 58 is a cross-sectional schematic view of an alternative spray apparatus employing a variable worm gear cam interface for adjusting the degree of oscillation imparted to the dispensing tube by the manifold, the interface cooperating with a flexible, spider-like alternative focusing mechanism for consistently converging/diverging the dispensing tube to achieve a focusing effect;

FIG. 59A is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative spray apparatus employing a dual concentration tray for uniformly converging/diverging distribution tubes to achieve a concentration effect;

FIG. 59B is a top view of a concentrating disk showing its intersecting concentrating slits;

fig. 60A-B are schematic illustrations in axial and cross-section of alternative spray apparatus employing: a variable worm gear cam interface for adjusting the degree of oscillation imparted to the dispensing tube by the manifold, actuated valves controlling fluid entry into the respective massage, ventilation and spray chambers, and an optional centralizing mechanism for uniformly converging/diverging the dispensing tube to achieve a centralizing effect;

FIG. 61A is a schematic plan view showing three fluid dispensing tube sets grouped to achieve a particular tube concentration effect;

61B-C are schematic cross-sectional views of the three tube sets of FIG. 61A in a converging state (FIG. 61B) and a normal state (FIG. 61C);

61D, 61E, and 61F are schematic side views of a pair of fluid distribution conduits that are unconcentrated (FIG. 61D), some concentrated (FIG. 61E), and most concentrated (FIG. 61F);

62A-B are schematic side cross-sectional views of a fluid distribution tube having non-uniformly distributed ribs around its circumference (and along its length) for effecting non-uniform bending of the tube;

FIG. 62C shows an elliptical spray pattern formed by the non-uniform distribution of ribs according to FIGS. 62A-B;

FIG. 62D is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a fluid distribution tube having a non-uniform wall thickness over its circumference to achieve non-uniform bending of the tube;

fig. 63-64 are schematic cross-sectional views of alternative hand-held spray devices, each employing: a cam worm for oscillating the plurality of fluid dispensing tubes in a coordinated manner via the manifold, and a variable worm cam interface for adjusting the degree of oscillation imparted to the dispensing tubes by the manifold;

FIGS. 65A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of a kitchen faucet spray apparatus employing: a variable worm gear cam interface for adjusting the degree of oscillation imparted to a connected dispensing tube by the manifold, an actuated valve directing fluid flow to the vent chamber, and a focusing mechanism for converging/diverging the dispensing tubes in unison to create a focusing effect;

66A-B are a schematic cross-sectional and schematic elevational view showing an alternative spray apparatus mounted in a wall and employing an actuating lever for adjusting the direction of guidance of the dispensing tube in a consistent manner and an actuating wheel for adjusting the degree of oscillation applied to the connected dispensing tube;

67A-B are a cross-sectional schematic view and a side-view schematic view of an alternative spray apparatus having a variable worm gear cam interface for adjusting the degree of oscillation imparted to a connected dispensing tube by the manifold, and a directional control mechanism for directing the direction of the dispensing tube in unison, the spray apparatus being mounted in close proximity to a wall without the use of a spray ball/swivel mount);

68-74 illustrate cross-sectional schematic views of an alternative spray apparatus that allows for the installation and consistent guidance of a fluid distribution tube near a wall by means of a movable control ring and spring element without the need to spray a ball/swivel mount;

fig. 75A-D are cross-sectional and cutaway schematic views of different vent tap configurations for a fluid dispensing tube of a spray apparatus.

Detailed Description

Referring now generally to fig. 1-68A (the following reference numeral "X" denotes the corresponding figure number, e.g., "X10" denotes "1210" in fig. 12), the present invention provides a spray apparatus X10 comprising a housing X12 having an inflow inlet X14 and a plurality of fluid outlets X16. The housing X12 is preferably made of a durable material known in the art to be suitable for use in shower installations, such as acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), polyoxymethylene plastic, or the like. Currently, it is preferred that at least a portion of the housing X12 be generally cylindrical, as best shown in the housing embodiment 4112 of fig. 41B, but this illustration is not required and could be, for example, the bell housing 4712 of fig. 47 and the square housing 6612 of fig. 66A.

A plurality of tubes X18 are also provided, each preferably disposed exclusively within one of the fluid outlets X16 for dispensing fluid from the enclosure X12. The manifold X20 is operatively connected to at least a subset X19 of the plurality of tubes X18 for coordinated movement of the connected tubes X19 in the respective plurality of fluid outlets X16 in accordance with movement of the manifold X20. Typically, no bearings are required because the contact force is not large and the moving parts are designed to be self-lubricating by the water flowing through the spray device X10.

An actuator X22 is also provided for moving the manifold X20. The actuator X22 preferably comprises a turbine X24 supported for rotational movement within the housing X12 under the flow of fluid from the fluid inlet X14 to the one or more fluid outlets X16. The fluid inlet X14 of the housing X12 preferably directs fluid toward the actuator X22 along a square selected from axial, radial, tangential, or a combination thereof.

The manifold X20 preferably includes a first planar member X26 having a generally central flow restriction aperture X28. The manifold X20 is preferably operatively connected to the turbine X24 for swinging movement relative to the housing X12 under the rotational movement of the turbine X24. The rotational motion of the turbine may include spinning, nutating, or a combination thereof. Nutation of the turbine X24 may include oscillatory motion (see fig. 1-4, 20, 22).

The turbine X24 preferably comprises: a head X30 having at least one angled or curved blade (and preferably two or more radially symmetrical blades) X32 on its upper surface; and an axis X34, the axis X34 depending from the turbine head X30 and extending at least partially through a flow-restricting orifice X28 in the first planar member X26 for operatively connecting the manifold X20 to the turbine X24. The turbine shaft X34 is preferably disposed in a restricted orifice X36 formed through a lower portion of the turbine head X30 and is preferably fixed for rotation with the turbine head X30. Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 1, 45 and 46-48A, the turbine shaft X34 may be integrally formed with the turbine head X30.

The turbine shaft may be provided with an eccentric or cam portion X38 positioned below or opposite the turbine head X30 and fixed to the turbine shaft X34 so that the cam portion X38 rotates with the turbine head X30. The cam portion X38 is supported within the restricted orifice X28 of the first planar member X26. The cam portion X38 may alternatively be integrally formed with the turbine head X30, as shown in FIGS. 5-8, 33, 45-50, 53, 55-56A, 63, and 65A-B.

The swinging motion of the manifold X20 may include at least one of a circular, elliptical, and linear motion. The oscillation of the manifold X20 preferably achieves coordinated oscillation of a portion (e.g., downstream portion) of each connected tube X19. The connected tubes X19 are preferably oriented parallel, diverging, converging or a combination thereof to each other. Such oscillation preferably includes at least one of circular, elliptical, and linear motion by the connecting portion of each connected tube X19.

The manifold X20 preferably engages each connected tube X19 at a similar location on each tube. The engagement positions may be: downstream portions of or adjacent to each of the connected tubes (see FIGS. 12-30, 35, 37-44, 52, 54, 57-60A, and 66A-67A); intermediate the downstream and upstream portions of each connected tube (see fig. 33-34, 47A, 51 and 55); or an upstream portion of or adjacent to each connected tube (or even further above, such as by an overlying band) (see fig. 1-11, 45, 46, 48A-50, 53, 55-56A, and 63-65B).

Fluid distribution tube X18 may be rigid or flexible, having flexibility preferably created by fabricating the tube from a resilient material (including natural polymers, synthetic polymers, or combinations thereof). Additionally, the tubes X18 are each sealably arranged within one of the fluid outlets X16 (e.g. by O-rings, sleeves, etc.), but this is not essential as the spray apparatus X10 of the present invention may allow for some degree of leakage.

Referring now to the various specific figures, FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional side view of a spray apparatus 110, which embodiment employs an actuator 122 in the form of a rocking turbine 124. The oscillating turbine 124 is energized by water flowing through the fluid inlet 114 in a manner well known in the art (see, e.g., U.S. patent No.6,092,739 to Clearman et al), causing the turbine 124 to have a rotational motion about the central axis of the housing 112, which may include spinning, nutating, or a combination thereof. Preferably, the turbine output shaft 134 is nutated by the rotational movement of the turbine 124 within the metering orifice 128 of the first planar member 126, causing the manifold 120, including the first planar member 126, to oscillate.

The manifold 120 engages each connected tube 119 at or near an upstream portion of each connected tube. To this end, the cartridge 120 preferably includes a plurality of flow restriction ports 121 therein, and the upstream portion 118u of the connected tube 119 is secured in one of the flow restriction ports 121 of the cartridge 120. The oscillation of the manifold 120 results in a stream moving from the tube through a generally cylindrical pattern. In other embodiments of the spray device of the present invention, a similar structure is employed (see, e.g., fig. 2-11), but in the embodiment of fig. 7-11, the manifold is integrally formed with the attached tube.

It is also preferred that in certain embodiments (see, e.g., fig. 1), the downstream portion 118d of each tube 118 (whether connected or unconnected) extends at least partially through one of the outlets 116 in the housing 112, and each outlet 116 is configured with an O-ring by which a portion between the upstream portion 118u and the downstream portion 118d of each tube is pivotally supported. A plurality of sleeves 125 are preferably each fitted around one of the connected tubes 119 between the manifold 122 and the fluid outlet 116 through which each tube 119 extends.

Fig. 2 shows a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of a spray apparatus 210 that employs an actuator 222 in the form of a "slot" turbine 224 to produce an oscillating motion of a manifold 220 having a first planar member 226. The turbine shaft 234 is supported in the manifold and turbine flow restriction ports 228, 236 such that the turbine is rotatably supported by the manifold (see also fig. 3-4, which employ a similar support structure).

FIG. 2A shows a top view of an asymmetric turbine head 230 having a single angled or curved blade 232 for converting the energy of water fed through the fluid inlet 214 into rotational motion of the turbine 224. Since the manifold 220 is free (within limits) to move vertically and horizontally (this freedom of movement is the same as for the embodiment of fig. 1-4), the manifold undergoes a rather complex oscillatory movement under the rotational movement of the turbine 224. The turbine 224 is known as a rotary slot turbine, wherein water force applied via the fluid inlet 214 against the angled or curved blades 232 pushes the turbine 224 and "returns" its support shaft 234 to its designated position. This continued application of water-generated force results in a rocking motion of the manifold 220. A similar slot turbine is employed in the embodiment of fig. 3-4.

Fig. 3 shows a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of a spraying device similar to that of fig. 2, but employing a different turbine design. More specifically, the turbine head 330 is configured with a cross member opposite the single angled or curved blade 332 to reduce imbalance during rotation of the turbine 324, resulting in more controlled oscillation of the manifold 320 including the first planar member 326. This in turn results in more controlled movement of the fluid distribution conduit 318. Alternatively, the turbine head 330 may take a more conventional design shape (similar to fig. 5, 8, etc.), but nonetheless has a rotational imbalance (e.g., greater mass density on one side) to achieve the desired oscillation of the manifold 320.

Fig. 4 is a modified form of the spraying device of fig. 2, in which the spraying device 410 is provided with a deflector for creating a massage effect. The second planar member 450 is mounted through the body 412 of the spraying device 410. The second planar member 450 is provided with: a first flow restriction orifice 452 for guiding the turbine shaft 434 through a second planar member; and a second metering hole 454 for directing water in the upper flow chamber 456 to the lower flow chamber 458. The first flow restriction hole 452 is sealed by a gasket 460 to prevent water from passing therethrough, thereby ensuring that water flowing into the upper chamber 456 of the housing 412 via the fluid inlet 414 will sequentially pass through the second flow restriction hole 454.

The rotary valve assembly 462 directs water flowing through the second restriction aperture 454 to either: a plurality of tubes 419 connected in fluid distribution tube 418; a central massage nozzle 467 (via conduit 463); or a combination thereof. The rotary valve assembly 462 includes an actuator handle 464, a plug valve body 466, and a shaft 465 connecting the two for transmitting an applied torque from the handle 464 to the plug valve body 466.

The cup assembly 468 is loosely constrained in the groove 470 of the manifold 420. A central rod 418c is fixed to the cup-shaped assembly 468 and is constrained to pivot in a manner integral with the tube 418. Thus, the central massage nozzle 467 secured to the central rod 418c will move under the oscillating motion of the manifold 420, which preferably includes at least one of circular, elliptical, and linear motion (with other connected tubes 419).

Fig. 5 shows a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of a spray device 510 according to the present invention having a turbine 524 rotating on a central shaft 534 and employing a cam portion 538 to cause the manifold 520 to produce the oscillating motion described herein. The cam portion 538 is formed by the eccentric lower portion of the turbine 524, which is supported for rotation about the shaft 534 within the restrictor hole 528 of the manifold 520 such that spinning of the turbine about the axis of the shaft 534 causes nutation of the turbine cam 538. Similar structure is employed in the embodiment of fig. 6-11 to effect a camming action for oscillating the respective manifold.

Fig. 6A-B illustrate an example of a fluid distribution tube 618 according to the present invention, each tube having a resilient sleeve nozzle 640 for focusing water expelled through the fluid distribution tube 618 to achieve a desired spray pattern as described herein. The sleeve nozzle 640 is preferably constructed of a known rubber-tipped nozzle, but exhibits further benefits (e.g., ease of deformation to remove scale, etc.) in the spray apparatus of the present invention, which employs scanning spraying. The tubes 618 have downstream portions 618d that extend at least partially through the respective fluid outlets 616. A floating disc 639 (see fig. 6B) may optionally be employed to limit the extent of the non-linear flexible movement of the connection tube 619 (e.g., to reduce the force of the generated spray (vigorousness).

Fig. 7-11 illustrate a plurality of flexible nozzles X40, each preferably supported within the fluid outlet X16 about the respective downstream portion X18d of the connected tube X19. The nozzles X40 are integrally formed as a mesh or matrix X31 and may have an internal profile that is sized and shaped (see, e.g., stepped inner diameter nozzles 940a in fig. 9) to provide a desired range of movement of the nozzles within the fluid outlet under the action of movement of the downstream portion of the connected tubes. Alternatively, the downstream portion X18d of the connected tube has an outer profile that is sized and shaped (see, e.g., fig. 11) to provide a desired range of movement of the nozzle relative to the fluid outlet upon movement of the downstream portion of the connected tube. Thus, for each nozzle, the movement of the downstream portion X18d of the connected tube within the flexible nozzle X40 results in a generally cylindrical fluid spray pattern (similar to that shown in fig. 19).

The embodiments shown in fig. 7 and 8 are very similar, except for the respective turbine heads 730 (fewer blades 732), 830 (more blades 832).

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure that FIGS. 1-11 employ an integrated piece disposed within the main flow chamber within housing X12. But most of the figures using the manifold disposed below the main flow chamber (unless otherwise indicated) will be described below.

Fig. 12-14 illustrate an embodiment of the spray apparatus 1210 in which the turbine 1224 is secured to a crankshaft 1234, the crankshaft 1234 extending for rotation through a second planar member 1250. The rotating crankshaft 1234 drives the manifold 1220 outside of the flow chamber 1256. The manifold 1220, including the second planar member 1226, oscillates within the lower chamber 1258, thereby moving the connected fluid distribution conduit 1219 and achieving the desired spray pattern. This embodiment, like other embodiments employing a second planar member (e.g., fig. 13-30) for supporting the upstream end of the fluid distribution tube, has the advantage of applying little or no pressure to the tube 1218. The tube 1218 is used to give the discharged water a direction and shape (without a separate nozzle) but requires little force to move. No seal is required for crankshaft 1234, as leakage near crankshaft 1234 may be drawn into the spray beam.

The crankshaft has a first end 1234u that mounts to the turbine head within a flow restriction aperture 1236, and a second end 1234d that is rotatably supported within a generally central flow restriction aperture 1228 in the first planar member 1226. The second end 1234d of the crankshaft 1234 is axially offset from the axis of the crankshaft by a bend between the first and second ends of the crankshaft. The crankshaft 1234 is supported for rotation about the central axis within the housing by a second planar member 1250 that is relatively rotatably and sealingly mounted within the housing between the manifold 1220 and the turbine head 1230. The second planar member 1250 preferably includes: a generally central restricted orifice 1252 in which the crankshaft 1234 is supported for rotation; and a plurality of eccentric flow restriction ports 1251 disposed in a second planar member 1250. An upstream portion 1218u of each tube 1218 is secured within one of the eccentric flow-restricting orifices 1251 of the second planar member 1250. The downstream portion 1218d of each tube 1218 extends at least partially through one of the fluid outlets 1216. Thus, water flowing into the fluid inlet 1214 is directed through the tube 1218 via the eccentric flow restriction aperture 1251, thereby creating a spray.

Fig. 15 and 15A show cross-sectional side views of another embodiment of a spray device 1510, which is similar to that of fig. 12, but employs a camshaft 1534 instead of a crankshaft. Thus, the turbine employs an eccentric or cam portion 1538 that is supported for rotation about a camshaft 1534 within the restrictor hole 1528 of the manifold 1520. Thus, spinning of the turbine 1524 about the axis of the camshaft 1534 causes nutation of the turbine cam 1538 sufficient to oscillate the manifold 1520.

The spraying device 1510 is also provided with a flow diverter system 1562 for achieving a massage effect. The flow diverter system 1562 includes an adjustable manifold or plug valve body 1566 disposed within a cylindrical bore in the housing above the second planar member for directing fluid in the flow chamber 1556 to any of the following: through the spray chamber 1567 to the outer subset of flow restriction holes of the eccentric flow restriction hole 1551 of the second planar member 1550; through the massage chamber 1569 to the inner subset of eccentric flow restriction holes 1551 of the second planar member 1550; or a combination thereof. The faucet valve body 1566 is actuated by a handle 1564 that selectively rotates the faucet valve body 1566 about its axis to achieve a desired flow configuration. Thus, in the configuration depicted in fig. 15, the faucet valve body 1566 has been rotated to open the flow chamber 1556 to the conduit 1563 in the valve body 1566 so that fluid flows into the channel or chamber 1567 to provide pressurized water to the outside subset of the fluid dispense tubes 1518 s. In the configuration depicted in fig. 15A, the cock body 1566 has been rotated to open the flow chamber 1556 to the channel or chamber 1569 to provide pressurized water to the inside subset of the fluid dispense tubes 1518 m.

Fig. 16 shows a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of a spray device 1610, similar to that of fig. 12, but employing a half-open turbine 1624 rather than a closed turbine design similar to that of turbine 1224. Fig. 17A-B are sequential views of the sprinkler 1610 of fig. 16 showing the movement of the fluid distribution conduit 1618 under the rotation of the turbine crankshaft 1634 and the oscillating motion of the integration 1620. In this way, a "scanning" spray effect is achieved. Fig. 18 shows a top view of a turbine employed in the spraying apparatus of fig. 16. A plurality of angled or curved blades 1632 of the turbine head 1630 are clearly visible.

Fig. 19 shows an example of a typical conical spray pattern achievable by the fluid distribution conduit 1618 of the spray device of fig. 16. As the manifold 1620 oscillates within the housing 1612, each conical spray pattern emerging from the downstream end of the connected tube 1619 will also move (i.e., scan) in an oscillating pattern.

Fig. 20 shows a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of a spray device 2010 in accordance with the present invention that employs a rocking turbine 2024 for rocking the manifold 2020 positioned below a flow chamber 2056 of the spray device. In this embodiment, the turbine shaft 2034 is arranged for nutation within the flanged flow-restricting bore 2028 of the first planar member 2026 of the manifold.

Fig. 21 shows a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of a spray device 2110, which is similar to that of fig. 16, except that a camshaft 2134 is used instead of a crankshaft. This embodiment is also provided with a system 2170 for changing the swing angle of the manifold 2120 and the spray produced by the connected fluid distribution tubes 2119. Cam member 2138 has an inclined vertical profile 2138 a. System 2170 represents a means for adjusting the height of the manifold 2120 relative to the cam member 2138, thereby engaging the manifold 2120 with different heights of the angled vertical profile 2138a of the cam member 2138. This may allow adjustment of the swing range of the manifold due to turbine rotation. More specifically, the system 2170 includes a base plate 2172 threaded on its perimeter 2172p and is prevented from rotating by one or more alignment pins 2174 disposed in one or more complementary holes 2175 through the base plate 2172. Threads 2176p on the inner circumference of adjustment sleeve 2176 engage base plate threads 2172p so that rotation of adjustment sleeve 2176 moves the base plate up or down as indicated by bidirectional direction line 2177. As the base 2172 moves upward, it positions the integrated piece 2120 higher on the cam profile 2138a, causing the resulting spray pattern to oscillate over a wider area. Conversely, the downward movement of the substrate 2172 results in a narrower swing range of the spray pattern. When the base 2172 reaches its bottom position, the rotating cam 2138 is not in contact with the hub 2120 so that the connected fluid distribution tube 2119 is not moved. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that this embodiment does not produce variations in the overall spray pattern, but can be used to vary the sweep radius of the integrator 2120, thereby varying the overall spray width (i.e., the sweep area of the spray pattern).

Fig. 22A-B show cross-sectional side and top views of another embodiment of a spray device 2210, which is similar to that shown in fig. 20, but employing a different rocking turbine 2224. The turbine shaft 2234 is arranged to nutate within the restrictor hole 228 of the manifold 2220, thereby oscillating the manifold 2220 and causing movement of the connected fluid dispensing tube 2219.

Fig. 23A-B show cross-sectional side and top views of another embodiment of a spray apparatus 2310 employing a manifold 2320 having two stacked complementary upper and lower plates 2326a, 2326B, each having a plurality of slits therein for guiding a connected fluid distribution tube 2319 to one of a plurality of designated radial positions. The slits 2327a of the upper plate 2326a overlie and are oppositely positioned relative to the corresponding slits 2327b of the lower plate 2326b, thereby forming a plurality of co-constricted slit regions 2327c through the upper and lower plates for engaging the respectively connected fluid distribution tubes 2318 with the respectively connected tube extensions through the common slit regions 2327 c. Preferably, at least one of the complementary plates is rotatable relative to another of the complementary plates to move the connected tubes inwardly or outwardly relative to the central axis.

While the plates 2326a, 2326b of the manifold 2320 are shown positioned at or near the bottom of the housing 2312, an alternative embodiment of the spraying device of the present invention positions such control members at an elevational position within the housing, much like the position of the planar member 2482 in fig. 24-26 (described below). Such an embodiment would employ other components as a manifold (similar to manifold 2420 of fig. 24-26) with component 2320 serving to direct or focus the fluid distribution conduit 2318 without wobbling (similar to the additional planar member 2482 of fig. 24-26).

Fig. 23C-D illustrate an alternative embodiment of a cam structure for rotating the plates 2326a, 2326b relative to each other to achieve the desired guiding function. The respective cam structures include cams 2380a, 2380b for engaging and adjusting the separation distance between respective projections 2381a-b (FIG. 23C) and 2381a '-b' (FIG. 23D). As the plates 2326a, 2326b rotate relative to each other, the tube 2318 moves either toward or away from the center of the housing 2312. When directed inwardly, the flow emerging through the fluid distribution conduit 2318 is concentrated into a relatively narrow cross-section, thereby achieving a massaging effect. When the tube 2318 is directed outwardly, the resulting stream moves outwardly into a cross-section preferred by the bather.

Particular embodiments of the spray device of the present invention include an additional planar member supported for limited rotation within the housing about the central axis. Thus, referring first to fig. 24-26, the additional planar member 2482 includes a plurality of eccentric angularly positioned inner and outer slits 2483, 2484 for engaging the respective portion 2418c of the connecting fluid distribution conduit 2419 intermediate the upstream and downstream portions of the conduit 2419 by extending the connecting conduit portion 2418c through the plurality of eccentric slits 2483, 2484 of the additional planar member 2482 — from the perspective of the (first) manifold 2420, the additional planar member may also be considered an additional manifold. The attachment planar member 2482 is rotatable relative to the housing 2412 for moving the attached tube portion 2418c inwardly or outwardly relative to the housing 2412. An upper fixed sleeve 2450a depends from the second planar member 2450 and serves to constrain movement of the tube 2418 to either radially inward or radially outward movement (as opposed to tangential movement) through engagement with the additional planar member 2482. This rotation is preferably achieved using an actuator 2485 supported on the housing. The actuator 2485 includes a handle 2486 connected to a shaft 2487 that extends through the slot 2412a in the body 2412 and supports a key 2488. The key 2488 is disposed in another slot 2482s in the planar member 2482 such that sliding movement of the handle 2486 laterally along the perimeter of the body 2412 (i.e., into and out of the page in fig. 25) causes rotation of the planar member 2482 about a central axis within the housing 2412.

Fig. 25-26 illustrate the spray apparatus of fig. 24, wherein a wide (fig. 25) and narrow (fig. 26) designated spray pattern is achieved by the tube 2418 by selectively rotating the additional planar member 2482 to direct or focus the fluid distribution tube using the actuator 2485. Fig. 27-28 show respective wide and narrow specified spray widths WS, NS achievable with the spray apparatus of fig. 24.

Fig. 29A-B show cross-sectional side views of another embodiment of a spray device 2910 in respective wide and narrow spray positions, which is similar to that of fig. 24 except that the fluid distribution tube is not equipped with an upper retention sleeve as in fig. 24. Thus, the embodiment of fig. 29A-B is adapted to apply a specific tangential force component to the fluid distribution tube 2918 via the additional planar member 2982 and actuator 2985, thereby adjusting the resulting spray width. In a given position, when tube 2918 has no tangential force component, the resulting spray has a minimum width, concentrated to a preferred cross-section (similar to that shown in fig. 28). The rotation of the concentrating disk imparts a tangential component to the nozzle so that the spray can be set to maximum width, as shown in the enlarged view of fig. 30.

In another alternative to the above-described embodiment (not shown), the additional planar member 2982 is eliminated and the integrated member 2920 is repositioned to a more central height position within the housing 2912 (i.e., the position of the eliminated planar member 2982). In this embodiment, the outlet 2916 is sized and shaped to fit properly around the tube 2918, ensuring that the downstream end of the tube is directed in the desired direction upon engagement with the height manifold 2920.

Fig. 31A-B show a cross-sectional side view and a (partial) top view of another embodiment of a spray device 3110 according to another aspect of the invention employing a manifold 3120 located below a flow chamber 3156 of the spray device, but without a worm gear. The spraying device 3110 includes a housing 3112 having a fluid inlet 3114 and a plurality of fluid outlets 3116. A plurality of conduits 3118 are each disposed in one of the fluid outlets 3116 for dispensing fluid from the housing 3112. The manifold 3120 is operatively connected to a subset 3119 of the plurality of tubes 3118 at a location 3118c between the fluid inlet 3114 and the fluid outlet 3116 for coordinated movement of the connected tubes 3119 in the respective plurality of fluid outlets 3116 in accordance with movement of the manifold 3120. An actuator 3122 is also provided for moving the manifold.

First planar member 3126 of manifold 3120 includes a plurality of angularly positioned slits 3184 for engaging with a corresponding portion 3118c of connector tube 3119 by extending through connector tube sub-portion 3118c of plurality of angularly positioned slits 3184. The manifold 3120 is rotatable relative to the housing 3112 via an actuator 3122 to move the connected tube portion 3118 c. The actuator 3122 preferably includes a slidable lever 3129, best shown in fig. 31B, that extends through a slot 3125 formed in the side wall of the housing 3112. The operating lever 3129 is disposed outside the housing 3112 and has an inner portion 3123 that engages the first planar member 3126 of the integrating member 3120 at a circumferential slit 3127.

Fig. 32 shows the spray device of fig. 31A set in a narrow spray position opposite the normal spray position of fig. 31A using an actuator 3122 (not shown in fig. 32). In addition to the motion provided by the actuator 3122, the fluid distribution conduit 3118 of this embodiment is stationary because there is no other continuous actuation similar to that provided by the turbines of other embodiments described herein.

Fig. 33A-B show cross-sectional side and top views of an alternative embodiment of a spray apparatus 3310 employing a manifold 3320 disposed within a flow chamber 3356 of a housing 3312. The fluid distribution tube 3318 is preferably integrally formed by a single elastomeric molding, having an upper wider portion 3318a and a lower narrower portion 3318 b. The thicker portion of the elastomer at the tube portion 3318a provides sufficient rigidity to reliably move the thinner portion of rubber at the tube portion 3318b and to maintain a generally straight centerline for each tube 3318. The complementary actuator 3385 employs a rotatable lever 3387 to selectively stop or freeze the movement of the connected tube 3319. More specifically, the actuator 3385 limits the oscillating movement of the manifold 3320, thereby limiting the movement of the connected tubes 3319 when the shower person wishes to have a spray stream that is not moving (i.e., not scanning).

Fig. 34 shows a cross-sectional side view of an alternative embodiment of a spray apparatus 3410 that employs a manifold 3420 disposed below a flow chamber 3456. The turbine 3424 includes a centrifugal member or cam portion 3438, the centrifugal member or cam portion 3438 being fixed about the turbine shaft 3434 opposite the turbine head 3430 such that the cam portion 3438 rotates with the turbine head 3430. The cam portion 3438 is supported within the flow restriction aperture 3428 of the first planar member 3426 of the manifold 3420 and is nutated by rotation of the turbine head 3430 to thereby cause the manifold 3420 to orbit.

Means 3480 for selectively directing the downstream end portions 3418d of the plurality of connected tubes 3419 are also provided in this embodiment of the invention. Accordingly, each connected tube 3419 preferably comprises a resilient material, such as a suitable rubber material. The guiding means 3480 preferably comprises a set of spaced ridges 3418d-e on the outer surface of each connected tube 3419 with side grooves 3418f defined therebetween. Each connected tube 3419 is disposed in one of the plurality of eccentric flow-restricting orifices 3484 formed in first planar member 3426 in a manner such that first planar member 3426 is connected to the plurality of connected tubes 3419 via side grooves 3418 d-e. Internally threaded sleeve 3413 is supported for rotation about externally threaded side wall portion 3412a of housing 3412. Sleeve 3413 has an annular groove 3415 formed in an inner surface thereof within which first planar member 3426 is circumferentially supported. Thus, rotation of sleeve 3413 causes vertical movement of first planar member 3426, which applies a vertical force to connected tubes 3419 at respective side grooves 3418 f. Fig. 34A-B show detailed side views of the fluid distribution conduits 3418 positioned for corresponding wide and narrow spray patterns.

Fig. 35-36 show an alternative embodiment of a spray device 3510, which is similar to that of fig. 29, but is also equipped with a deflector system 3560 for achieving a massage effect. Housing 3512 defines inner and outer flow chambers or passages 3556a-b for communicating with inner and outer subsets of the plurality of eccentric flow-restricting orifices 3557a-b of second planar member 3550. The flow diverter system 3560 includes a valve assembly 3561 for directing fluid through the flow channels 3556a-b to any one of: an outer subset of the plurality of eccentric flow restriction ports 3557b of second planar member 3550; an inner subset of the plurality of eccentric flow restriction ports 3557a of second planar member 3550; or a combination thereof. The valve assembly preferably includes a stop valve 3562 having a movable valve stem 3563 for shutting off the flow channel 3556b from the flow channel 3556 a. The actuator lever 3564 may be used to move the valve stem 3563 and stop valve 3562 as needed to direct fluid flow. This embodiment utilizes a central tube 3518m provided by an inner flow restriction 3557a to achieve a massaging effect. When valve 3561 is closed, no water reaches the outer tube provided by outer restriction 3557 b. Thus, the pressure on the inner tube increases. Thus, when the tube 3518 is focused to achieve a narrow spray with the actuator 3585 while the valve closure 3561 is closed, the inner tube will be subjected to a relatively high water pressure, resulting in a focused massage effect.

Fig. 37 shows a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of a spray device 3710 according to the invention, which is similar to that of fig. 15, but which employs an alternative deflector system 3760 for achieving a massage effect. The flow diverter system 3760 is similar to that shown in FIG. 35 and includes a valve assembly 3761 for directing fluid through the flow chambers or channels 3756a-b to any one of: an outer subset of the plurality of eccentric flow restriction apertures 3757b of the second planar member 3750; an inner subset of the plurality of eccentric flow restriction apertures 3757a of the second planar member 3750; or a combination thereof. The valve assembly preferably includes a stop valve 3762 having a sliding valve stem 3763 for cutting off the flow channel 3756b from the flow channel 3756 a. The actuator ring 3764 is used to move the valve stem 3763 and stop valve 3762 as needed to direct fluid flow. The actuator ring 3764 has an inboard track with a smoothly changing radius (similar to that in figure 40C) that forces the valve stem 3763 inward or outward as the ring 3764 rotates. This embodiment uses a central tube 3718m provided by the inboard flow restriction aperture 3757a to achieve a massaging effect. When the valve 3761 is closed, no water reaches the outer tube provided by the outer flow restriction hole 3757 b. Thus, the pressure on the inside tube 3718m increases.

Fig. 38-39 show sequential, cross-sectional side views of another embodiment of a spray device 3810 in accordance with the invention, which is similar to that of fig. 37, but which employs an alternative deflector system 3860 for achieving a massage effect. In this embodiment, the spray apparatus of the present invention further includes a third planar member 3890 for removably covering an inner subset of the plurality of eccentric flow restriction orifices 3857a of the second planar member 3850 which are interconnected by passages 3857 c. The third planar member 3890 has a sloped rib 3890a around at least a portion thereof. Valve assembly 3861 includes a movable valve stem 3863 configured with a plug 3862 and a distal end 3863a such that movement of valve stem 3863 in a radially inward direction causes plug 3862 to close a fluid chamber or passage 3856b that communicates fluid with an outer subset of the plurality of eccentric flow-restricting orifices 3857b of second planar member 3850. Movement of the valve stem 3863 in a radially inward direction also causes the valve stem distal end 3863a to engage the sloped rib 3890a, thereby removing the third planar member 3890 from the inner subset of the plurality of eccentric flow-restricting orifices 3857a of the second planar member 3850 and the passage 3857 c. This occurs before the stopcock 3862 closes the flow chamber or passage 3856b that communicates fluid with the outer subset of the plurality of eccentric flow-restricting orifices 3857b of the second planar member 3850, so that the transition from spray mode to massage mode is gradual. When the third planar member 3890 is downward, water pressure in the flow chamber or passage 3856a exerts a downward force on the third planar member preventing water from entering, such that only an outer subset of the plurality of eccentric flow-restricting orifices 3857b are exposed to the water pressure. When the shower valve 3861 is closed (see fig. 39), the valve stem distal end 3863a pushes up against the third planar member 3890, opening the water supply in the flow chamber 3856a to the inner subset of the plurality of eccentric flow-restricting orifices 3857a and the massage tube 3818m and closing the flow to the outer flow-restricting orifices 3857 b. Since the inner flow restriction holes 3857a are substantially smaller than the outer flow restriction holes 3857b, the water pressure in the central tube 3818m (in massage mode) will be correspondingly higher than the water pressure in the outer tubes 3818s (in shower mode).

Fig. 40A-B show sequential, cross-sectional side views of an alternative spray apparatus 4010 in accordance with the present invention employing an enclosed, circumferentially driven worm gear 4024 and an alternative deflector system 4060 for achieving a massage effect. Fig. 40C shows a cross-sectional top view of the spraying device of fig. 40A-B. The housing 4012 of the spraying apparatus 4010 includes a flow chamber or passage 4056a that is shaped to pass water from the fluid inlet 4014 to the turbine feed passage 4024a for energizing the plurality of angled or curved blades 4032 and creating torque on the turbine shaft 4034. The flow diverter system 4060 is similar to that shown in figure 37 and it includes a valve assembly 4061 for directing fluid through a flow chamber or channel 4056a-b to either: an outer subset of the plurality of eccentric flow-restricting orifices 4057b of the second planar member 4050; an inner subset of the plurality of eccentric flow-restricting orifices 4057a of the second planar member 4050; or a combination thereof. Valve assembly 4061 preferably comprises a valve biased toward a closed position by spring arm 4062a (see figure 40C). A movable valve stem 4063 is provided to selectively open the flow channel 4056b to the flow channel 4056a (as shown in figures 40A and 40C). The actuator ring 4064 is used to move the valve stem 4063 and valve 4062 between the open and closed positions as needed to direct the flow of water to achieve a spraying and/or massaging effect. The actuator ring 4064 has an inner track 4064a with a smoothly varying radius (see figure 40C) so that when the ring 4064 is rotated, it forces the valve stem 4063 inward or outward (under the force of the spring arm 4062 a). Thus, this embodiment uses the central tube 4018m provided by the inner flow restricting orifice 4057a to achieve a massaging effect. The cross-sectional flow area of central tube 4018m is (nominally) slightly smaller than the cross-sectional flow area of outer tubes 4018s to regulate the water pressure flowing through central tube 4018m, which may alternatively be at a pressure higher than that required for shower comfort. Water flowing into central conduit 4018m will either be at a higher pressure than water flowing into outer conduit 4018s because of the shorter flow path and less frictional losses between inflow inlet 4014 and conduit 4018 m. When valve 4061 is closed, no water reaches outer tube 4018s formed by outer flow restriction 4057 b. As a result, the pressure on inner tube 4018m increases and the wall of inner tube 4018m is bent from the prescribed shape shown in fig. 40D to the expanded shape shown in fig. 40E.

Fig. 41-42 show cross-sectional side and top views of an alternative spray device 4110 according to the invention, similar to that of fig. 38-39, but employing a crankshaft 4134 instead of a camshaft 3834 (see fig. 38) and an alternative deflector system 4160 for achieving a massage effect. The crankshaft 4134 has a first end 4134u mounted to the turbine head 4130 and a second end 4134d rotatably supported within the generally central flow restriction orifice 4128 of the first planar member 4126 of the manifold 4120. The second end 4134d of the crankshaft 4134 is offset from the axis of the crankshaft 4134 by bending of the crankshaft between the first and second ends 4134 u-d. The crankshaft 4134 is supported for rotation about the central axis within the housing 4112 by a second planar member 4150 that is sealingly mounted with respect to rotation within the housing 4112 between the manifold 4120 and the turbine head 4130.

The second planar member 4150 includes a substantially central restriction hole 4150a in which the crankshaft 4134 is supported for rotation, and a plurality of inner, intermediate, and outer eccentric restriction holes 4157a, 4157b, and 4157c (see fig. 42) provided in the second planar member. An upstream portion of each of the tubes 4118m, 4118b, and 4118c is secured within one of the respective eccentric flow restriction holes 4157a, 4157b, and 4157c of the second planar member 4150. A downstream portion of each tube 4118 extends at least partially through one of the fluid outlets 4116. Thus, fluid flowing into inlet 4114 is channeled through tubes 4118m, b, c via eccentric flow restriction ports 4157a, b, c.

The diverter system 4160 includes a rotating control ring 4164 for sequentially transitioning the generated spray from a wide spray to a narrow spray, then to a combination spray/massage, then to a wide massage setting, then to a narrow massage setting. Third planar member 4190 removably covers an inner subset of the plurality of eccentric restriction orifices 4157a of second planar member 4150 that are interconnected by passages 4157 d. The third planar member 4190 has inclined ribs 4190a around at least a portion thereof. Valve system 4161 includes a movable valve stem 4163 configured with a sealable cock 4162 and a distal end 4163a such that movement of valve stem 4163 in a radially inward direction causes cock 4162 to close a fluid chamber or passage 4156b that communicates fluid with an outer subset of the plurality of eccentric flow restricting orifices 4157b-c of second planar member 4150. More specifically, movement of the valve stem 4163 in a radially inward direction causes the valve stem distal end 4163a to first engage the angled rib 4190a to begin removing the third planar member 4190 from the inner subset of the plurality of eccentric flow restricting orifices 4157a of the second planar member 4150 and the channel 4157 d. This causes a massaging effect and occurs before the cock 4162 closes the fluid chamber or passage 4156b which communicates fluid with the outer subset of the plurality of eccentric flow restricting orifices 4157b of the second planar member 4150. As the cock 4162 moves towards its closed position, the spraying effect is reduced and the massaging effect is increased. When the third planar member 4190 is fully opened, the massage effect by the tube 4118m is maximized. When the third planar member 4190 is down, the water pressure in the flow chamber or channel 4156a exerts a downward force on the third planar member, preventing water from entering and stopping the massage effect.

The spray apparatus 4110 further comprises a means 4170 for adjusting the height of the manifold 4120 relative to the crankshaft 4134d such that the manifold 4120 engages different heights of the angled profile near the crankshaft end 4134 d. This allows the range of oscillation of the manifold 4120 caused by the rotation of the turbine 4124 to be adjusted. More specifically, the system 4170 includes a generally cylindrical base 4172 that fits around a generally cylindrical upper portion 4112a of the housing 4112, thereby defining a lower portion 4112b of the housing. The base plate 4172 includes a groove or recess 4112c for receiving a retaining pin 4113 supported in the control ring 4164. The groove 4112c is shaped (see fig. 41A) such that rotation of the control ring 4164 about the housing upper portion 4112a applies a force via the securing ring 4113 to the walls of the groove 4112c for selectively raising or lowering the substrate 4172 as indicated by bidirectional line 4177. As the base plate 4172 moves upward, the manifold 4120 is positioned higher on the crankshaft profile 4134d, causing the resulting spray pattern to oscillate over a narrower area. Conversely, the downward movement of the base plate 4172 results in a wider swing range of the spray pattern. When base plate 4172 reaches its uppermost position, crankshaft profile 4134d is not in contact with manifold 4120 and connected fluid distribution tubes 4119 are not moved. Thus, rotation of the control ring 4164 affects the degree of oscillation of the manifold 4120, as well as the spray/massage effect (described above) produced by the valve assembly 4161. The base plate 4172 is prevented from rotating by one or more locator pins 4174 disposed in one or more complementary flow restriction holes 4175 formed in the flange portion 4172a of the base plate 4172. A collar 4172c is fixed to the flange 4172a for preventing the manifold 4120 from separating from the base plate 4172 under the force applied by the crankshaft end 4134 d. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that this embodiment does not cause a change in the overall spray pattern, but can be used to change the swing radius of the manifold 4120, thereby changing the overall spray width (i.e., the swing area of the spray pattern).

Fig. 41B illustrates a perspective view of a housing 4112 of a spray device 4110 that delivers water to a fluid inlet 4114 (not shown in fig. 41B) using a shower or neck 100 in a conventional manner. Outer control ring 4164 is shown as being radially symmetric and generally cylindrical in shape and includes finger indents 4164f for easy gripping and rotation by the shower user. The ends of fluid distribution tubes 4118m, 4118b, 4118c are shown extending partially through fluid outlets 4116 formed in a lower portion 4112b of the housing. For clarity, the housing lower extension 4112d (see fig. 41) is removed in fig. 41B, thereby illustrating an end 4134d of the crankshaft 4134 protruding slightly through the housing lower portion 4112B.

Fig. 43-44 show sequential, cross-sectional side views of an alternative spray apparatus 4310 in accordance with the present invention employing a combination of stationary and movable fluid distribution tubes 4318f, 4318m and an alternative deflector system 4360 for achieving a massage effect in respective stationary and scanning spray modes. The movable fluid distribution tube is a tube 4319 connected to a manifold 4320. In this embodiment, the tube 4318m is integrally formed with the second planar member 4350, for example, by single rubber molding.

The fixed fluid distribution tube 4318f is not connected to the manifold 4320. Each unconnected tube 4318f has an upstream portion secured in one of the second set of flow-restricting orifices 4357f of the second planar member 4350 and a downstream portion extending at least partially through one of the fluid outlets 4316. Thus, when the flow diverter system is positioned as shown in FIG. 43, water, for example, from the fluid inlet 4314 is directed through the unconnected tube 4318f via the second flow restriction hole 4357 f. The housing preferably defines flow chambers or passages 4356a-b for selectively communicating with the first and second flow-restricting orifices 4357m, f of the second planar member 4350. Accordingly, flow diverter system 4360 includes a valve assembly 4361 for directing fluid in the flow chamber and passage 4356a to at least one of the first flow-restricting orifice 4357m or the second flow-restricting orifice 4357f of the second planar member 4350. The valve assembly 4361 includes a plug valve body 4362 that is actuated by a handle 4364 (see fig. 44) that selectively rotates the valve body 4362 about its axis to achieve a desired flow configuration. In the valve position of fig. 44, water is directed from flow chamber or passage 4356a into valve assembly 4362a for delivery to flow chamber or passage 4356b, such that the water enters fluid distribution tube 4318m through first restricted orifice 4357m, producing a scanning spray. When the valve 4361 is moved to the position of fig. 43, water is directed from the flow chamber or passage 4356a into the valve chamber 4362a for feeding through the valve restricted orifice 4362b to the second restricted orifice 4357f and into the fluid distribution tube 4318f (e.g., bypassing the flow chamber or passage 4356b) for producing a fixed spray. Thus, a shower user can achieve a fixed or scanning spray with this embodiment.

Fig. 45 shows a cross-sectional side view of another simplified alternative embodiment of a spray device 4510 that employs a manifold 4520 disposed within a flow chamber 4556. In the housing 4512, a first planar member 4526 of the manifold 4520 supports the inlets 4557 of the fluid distribution tubes. The turbine 4524, cam member 4538, and turbine shaft 4534 are all preferably integrally formed of a plastic material. At outlet 4516, no seal is currently provided around tube 4518, but this is an option. Leakage is accompanied in the spray stream discharged from the pipe 4518.

Figure 46 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a ball joint 4608 (hereinafter referred to as X08, where X is the figure number, e.g., the ball joint marker 4708 of figure 47) of a plastic universal showerhead mounted in the housing 4612 of an alternative sprinkler 4610 for delivering water to the housing inlet 4614 of the sprinkler. The spray apparatus 4610 employs a turbine actuator 4624 to oscillate a plurality of connected fluid distribution tubes 4618 (the connected tubes are also designated 4619) in a coordinated manner via a manifold 4620. Each fluid distribution tube 4618 is preferably flexible and includes a strap 4618s mounted at and adjacent to the inlet 4618i of its tube 4618b for pivotally mounting the tube within the housing 4612. The strap 4618s pivotally mounts the body 4618b of each tube 4618 to the planar member 4626 of the manifold 4620 via the mounting posts 4640. Figure 46 shows that pairs of adjacent straps 4618s may be integrally formed by a common web portion 4641 having apertures (not numbered) therein, coupling the mounting posts 4640 to the manifold. Each strap 4618s may be flexible or rigid over at least a portion of its length. In the latter case, the rigidity of the strap may be achieved by a stiffener, as shown in the embodiment of fig. 55.

For the reasons described above, the distribution tube 4618 of this embodiment, as well as the remaining embodiments described below, is preferably flexible. Each flexible dispensing tube includes a flexible tube body having an inlet for receiving a fluid and an outlet for dispensing the fluid. The body is preferably flexible along substantially its entire length so that the outlet of the body can be easily guided by applying a lateral force to the body at one or more locations along the body. The tubular body may comprise a natural polymer, a synthetic polymer, or a combination thereof.

The preferred flexibility of the dispensing tube (and tape) allows for easy adjustment of the fluid dispensing direction or shape and facilitates magnification of the direction/shape change in the dispensed fluid stream (as compared to a rigid dispensing tube), for example, when the tube is subjected to a lateral force on one side and an opposing pivoting force (axially offset from the lateral force) on the other side. This flexible (and simplified) construction reduces the energy requirements of the turbine, thereby allowing the spray apparatus to be more efficient than similar apparatus employing only rigid fluid discharge conduits. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the flexibility of the tape is particularly beneficial in embodiments of the spraying device of the present invention, such as those embodiments described below in connection with fig. 47A, 51 and 55-61F.

Fig. 47 is a cross-sectional schematic view of the spray device 4710 similar to that of fig. 46, but employing a different engagement mechanism between the manifold 4720 and the distribution tube 4618. In this case, each distribution conduit 4718 includes an elongated flexible strap 4718s formed at or near the inlet 4718i of its tube 4718b for pivotally mounting the tube 4718b within the housing 4712. The webbing 4718s mounts the body 4718b of each tube 4718 to the second planar member 4750 through an aperture 4751 in the second planar member 4750 sized to receive the upper end of the webbing 4718 s. A second planar member 4750 is mounted transversely within the housing 4712 between the turbine head 4730 and the housing inlet 4714 in a relatively rotational sealing relationship.

Fig. 47B illustrates the configuration of a subset of the plurality of holes 4725 formed in the planar member 4726 of the manifold 4720 for receiving the respective straps 4718s of the distribution conduits 4718. The apertures 4725 are generally oval or elliptical in shape, each having a major axis aligned radially with respect to the planar member 4726. This configuration constrains the band 4718s more in the tangential direction than in the radial direction, tending to cause more tangential movement (more than radial movement) of the distribution tube 4718 by water flowing into the housing inlet 4814 under the rotating action of the turbine head 4730. Thus, as shown in fig. 47C, the swing path 4760 of the tube 4718 (at least the outer tube) is oval or elliptical with the major axis aligned tangentially.

Fig. 48A-B are cross-sectional schematic views of an alternative spray device 4810 that employs a lever 4885 that is rotatable outside of housing 4812 to rotate shaft 4886 about its own axis within housing 4812. Rotation of the shaft 4886 is effective to move the isolation valve 4882 between positions closing (see fig. 48A) and opening (see fig. 48B) the isolation chamber 4884 to selectively feed water to the outer subset of the plurality of stationary fluid distribution tubes 4818f and to selectively isolate the tubes 4818f from the inner subset of the plurality of turbine oscillating fluid distribution tubes 4818. The resulting rotation of the shaft 4886 is also effective to move the transverse arm 4888 (fixed to the shaft 4886) between positions that prevent (fig. 48B) and allow (fig. 48A) oscillation of the inner subset of the plurality of fluid distribution tubes 4818.

Fig. 49A-B are schematic cross-sectional views of an alternative spray device 4910 that employs a lever 4985 that is rotatable outside of housing 4912 to rotate shaft 4986 about its own axis within housing 4912. The resulting rotation of the shaft 4986 effectively moves the transverse arm 4988 (fixed to the shaft 4886) between a lower position (fig. 49A) and an upper position (fig. 49B) to adjust the height of the pad 4990 as it rises/falls about the turbine shaft 4934 and thus the height adjustment of the turbine head 4930 including the cam surface or portion 4938 of its profile. The height adjustment of the cam 4938 enables adjustment of the position of engagement between the cam 4938 and the manifold 4920, and thereby changes the degree of oscillation that the cam 4938 imparts to the central flow-restricting orifice 4928 of the manifold 4920 (and thus the connected distributor tube 4918) in the event of rotation of the turbine 4934. Thus, fig. 49A depicts a smaller oscillation induced in the tube 4918, while fig. 49B depicts a larger oscillation induced in the tube 4918. The lever 4985, shaft 4986, and transverse arm 4988 thus constitute an integrated mechanism for adjusting the engagement position (e.g., height) of the integrated piece 4920 relative to the cam portion 4938. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the use of flexible tubing, as shown herein, may avoid the need for complex mechanisms that would otherwise be required to maintain proper alignment of rigid tubing over a range of variable orbital motion.

Fig. 50-53 are cross-sectional schematic views of alternative spray devices 5010, 5110 and 5210, each employing similar mechanisms (i.e., an externally rotatable lever X85, an internally rotatable shaft X85, a transverse arm X88, and a spacer X90) for varying the cam interface to adjust the degree of oscillation applied to the respective connected dispensing tubes 5018, 5118 and 5218 by the cartridges 5020, 5120 and 5220. In the spraying apparatus of fig. 50 and 53, the respective turbine heads 5030 and 5330 are free to move up/down about the turbine shafts 5034 and 5334, and the respective cams 5038, 5338 move up/down relative to the manifolds 5020, 5320. In the spray device 5220 of fig. 51, the gasket 5190 forces the cartridge 5120 up/down, thereby changing its engagement with the cam portion 5138 of the turbine shaft 5134. In the spray device 5220 of fig. 52, the gasket 5290 urges the cam portion 5238 up/down relative to the manifold 5220.

The spray apparatus 5310 of fig. 53 also employs an isolation valve 5382 having a raisable tab 5383, and an isolation chamber 5384, in a similar manner to the spray apparatus 4810 of fig. 48A-B.

Fig. 54 is a cross-sectional schematic view of an alternative spray device 5410 that employs a rotatable lever 5485 for controlling fluid access to the actuated valves 5462, 5464, and 5466 of the respective massage chamber 5452, vent chamber 5454, and spray chamber 5456. These actuated valves are moved between open and closed positions by movement of the respective valve stems 5442, 5444 and 5446 into the circumferential channel 5488 of the barrel cam 5490, which rotates with the shaft 5486.

The spraying apparatus 5410 is also provided with a rotatable circumferential ring 5460 for adjusting the height of the manifold 5420 relative to the cam portion 5438 of the turbine shaft 5434 and thus the degree of oscillation of the turbine wheel applied to the connected dispensing tube 5419. The circumferential ring 5460 is provided with internal threads, tabs, etc. (not shown) that are complementary to external threads, slots, etc. (not shown) of the outer cylindrical region 5421 of the manifold 5420, such that rotation of the circumferential ring 5460 about the housing 5412 is translated into up/down movement of the manifold 5420 relative to the cam portion 5438 of the spray device 5410.

Fig. 55 is a cross-sectional schematic view of an alternative spray device 5510 that employs a lever 5585 that is provided for rotation outside of the housing 5512 to adjust the height of the manifold 5520 via a shaft 5586 that is arranged for rotation inside the housing 5512 about its own axis. The shaft 5586 includes an eccentric transverse arm 5588 that swings through rotation of the shaft, moving the manifold 5520 up/down through engagement of the arm 5588 with the bore 5521 in the manifold 5520, thereby moving the central restrictor orifice 5528 into engagement with a different location along the cam 5538 of the worm gear 5534. Accordingly, the degree of swing of the turbine applied to the distribution pipe 5518 connected by the manifold 5520 is selectively adjusted.

The spray apparatus 5510 also includes one or more centering elements in the form of reinforcing bands 5518s connected to or integrally formed with the dispensing tube 5518 at or near the inlet 5518i of the dispensing tube body 5518b for pivotally mounting the body 5518b within the housing 5512. Each reinforcement belt 5518s pivotally mounts the body 5518b of each tube 5518 to a second planar member 5550 through an aperture 5551 in the second planar member 5550 that is sized to receive the upper end of the belt 5518 s. The second planar member 5550 is mounted laterally within the housing 5512 for relative rotation generally between the manifold 5520 and the housing inlet 5514. The concentrating elements (i.e., the reinforcement bands 5518s) engage the manifold 5520 through holes 5525 therein. The tape 5518s is moved by the above-described adjustment of the engagement position of the integration 5520 and the turbine cam 5538, thereby simultaneously adjusting the fluid dispensing direction of the dispensing tube 5518 in a uniformly converging (or diverging) manner, i.e., concentrating the spray shape formed by the fluid beams dispensed from the plurality of dispensing tubes.

Fig. 56A is a cross-sectional schematic view of an alternative spray device 5610 that employs a lever 5685 provided for rotation outside of the housing 5612 to adjust the height of the manifold 5620 via a shaft 5686 arranged for rotation about its own axis inside of the housing 5612. The shaft 5686 includes an eccentric transverse arm 5688 that oscillates by rotation of the shaft so that the planar member 5626 of the manifold is moved up/down by engagement of the arm 5688 with the lower hub member 5621 below the planar member 5626 to move the central metering orifice 5628 into engagement with a different location along the cam 5638 of the worm gear 5634. Therefore, the degree of swing of the turbine applied to the distributor pipe 5618 connected by the integrated member 5620 is selectively adjusted.

The eductor apparatus 5610 also includes one or more concentrating elements in the form of spider arms 5642 (along with pins 5640) that form part of the manifold 5620, as shown in the bottom view of the eductor apparatus in fig. 56B. The spider-shaped arm 5642 is connected to the dispensing tube 5618 by its engagement with a flexible pin 5640, which pin 5640 is mounted in a slot 5641 of a flexible band 5618s, which flexible band 5618s is connected (i.e., integrally formed) at or near an entrance 5618i of a body 5618b of the dispensing tube for pivotally mounting the body 5618b within the housing 5612. Each strap 5618 pivotally extends the body 5618b of each tube 5618 to one or more upper ring members 5649 slidably disposed beneath a transverse portion of the housing 5612 generally between the turbine head 5630 and the housing inlet 5614. The concentrating element (i.e., spider arm 5642) engages the pin 5640 through a hole 5643 therein. The pin member 5640 and the band 5618s are moved by the above-described adjustment of the engagement position of the integration member 5620 and the turbine cam 5638, thereby adjusting the fluid distribution direction of the distribution pipe 5618 in a uniform converging (or diverging) manner, that is, concentrating the spray shape formed by the fluid beams distributed from the plurality of distribution pipes. Thus, the left half of fig. 56A depicts a concentrated, narrow spray configuration with less (or no) turbine oscillation, while the right half of fig. 56B depicts an unconcentrated (normal), wide spray configuration with greater turbine oscillation.

Fig. 57 is a cross-sectional schematic view of an alternative spray apparatus 5710 that employs a rotatable circumferential ring 5760 for adjusting the height of the manifold 5720 relative to the cam portion 5738 of the turbine shaft 5734, and thus the degree of turbine oscillation applied to the connected distribution tube 5719. The circumferential ring 5760 is provided with internal threads, tabs, etc. (not shown) that are complementary to the external threads, grooves, etc. (not shown) of the outer, cylindrical region 5721 of the outlet plate 5723 below the manifold 5720, such that rotation of the circumferential ring 5760 about the housing 5712 is translated into up/down movement of the manifold 5720 relative to the cam portion 5738 of the apparatus 5710.

The spray device 5710 also includes one or more concentrating elements in the form of flexible spider arms 5742 that are each connected between the fixed ring 5748 and the movable outlet plate 5723. A ring 5748 and an outlet plate 5723 are mounted transversely to each other for relative rotation within the housing 5712. The concentrating element (i.e., spider arm 5742) engages the tubes 5718b of the dispensing tube 5718 through a hole 5743 in its 5742, wherein the tubes extend through the hole 5743. The spider-shaped arm 5742 is bent and moved by the above-described adjustment of the engagement position of the manifold 5720 and the turbine cam 5738, thereby adjusting the fluid dispensing direction of the dispensing tube 5718 in a uniformly converging (or diverging) manner, i.e., concentrating the spray shape formed by the fluid beams dispensed from the plurality of dispensing tubes. Thus, the right half of fig. 57 depicts a concentrated, narrow spray configuration with less (or no) turbine oscillation, while the left half of fig. 57 depicts an unconcentrated (normal), wide spray configuration with greater turbine oscillation.

Fig. 58 is a cross-sectional schematic view of an alternative spray apparatus 5810 that employs a rotatable circumferential ring 5860 for adjusting the height of the manifold 5820 via a movable outlet plate 5823, thereby adjusting the degree of turbine oscillation applied to the connected distribution pipe 5719. This mechanism is substantially the same as that described above with reference to fig. 57 and will therefore not be described again.

The spray apparatus 5810 also includes one or more concentrating elements in the form of flexible concentrating arms or straps 5842a each connected to a second planar member 5850 mounted transversely below the turbine head 5830 via a housing 5812. The concentration arms 5842a cooperate with the corresponding concentration cams 5842b to laterally displace the guard portions 5842c of the concentration arms 5842a as the outlet plate 5843 moves up/down under the rotational action of the circumferential ring 5860. The protective cover portion 5842c bends the distribution pipe 5818 to adjust the fluid distribution direction of the distribution pipe 5818 in a uniform converging (or diverging) manner, i.e., to concentrate the spray shape formed by the fluid beams distributed from the plurality of distribution pipes. Thus, the right half of fig. 58 depicts a concentrated, narrow spray configuration with less (or no) turbine oscillation, while the left half of fig. 58 depicts an unconcentrated (normal), wide spray configuration with greater turbine oscillation.

Fig. 59A is a cross-sectional schematic view of an alternative spraying apparatus employing a circumferential actuator ring 5964 for urging a valve stem 5963 against a valve 5962 to move the valve between positions closing or opening a housing fluid chamber 5956b, delivering water to an outer dispensing tube 5918 in fluid communication with chamber 5956b through a flow-restricting orifice sealingly mounted transversely in a second planar member 5950 within the housing 5912. This mechanism is similar to the valve actuation mechanism described above with reference to fig. 40A-C and therefore will not be described.

Referring to fig. 59A and 59B, the spray apparatus 5910 further includes a focusing assembly in the form of stacked, dual focusing disks or plates 5942a, 5942B supported for relative translational movement about a hub portion 5951 depending from the second planar member 5950. Each of the concentrating pans 5942a, 5942b has a plurality of slits therein for guiding the dispensing tube 5918 connected thereby to one of a plurality of designated radially positioned positions. The slit 5943a of the upper disc 5942a covers and is positioned opposite to the corresponding slit 5943b of the lower disc 5942b, thereby forming a common confined slit area 5943c through the upper and lower plates for engaging with the corresponding connecting dispensing tube 5918 through an extension of the middle portion of the common slit area 5943c by the corresponding connecting tube. Preferably, at least one of the complementary convergence disks 5942a, 5942b is rotatable relative to the other of the complementary disks (e.g., via one or more sliding arms 5945 actuated by the inclined inner surface 5965 of the actuator ring 5964) for moving the connected tube 5918 inwardly or outwardly relative to the central axis of the housing 5912. The convergence pans 5942a, 5942b cooperate to move laterally and bend the middle portion of the dispensing tube 5918 to adjust the fluid dispensing direction of the dispensing tube 5918 in a convergent (or divergent) manner, i.e., to converge the spray pattern formed by the fluid beams dispensed from the plurality of dispensing tubes.

Fig. 60A-B are schematic axial and cross-sectional views of an alternative spray apparatus employing a rotatable actuator ring 6064 for adjusting the height of the dual manifold and for actuating valves controlling fluid into the respective massage, vent, and spray chambers, thereby adjusting the degree of turbine oscillation applied to the connected dispensing tubes to achieve different spray effects, and the dispensing tubes converge/diverge in unison via a converging cam and ring to achieve a converging effect. An actuator ring 6064 is rotatable about the housing 6012 for sequentially urging three valve stems 6063a (not shown), 6063b and 6063c against respective valves 6062a, 6062b and 6062c to cooperate with respective closing springs 6061a, 6061b and 6061c to move the valves between positions that close or open respective fluid chambers 6056a, 6056b and 6056c to deliver water to respective inner (massaging) fluid distribution tubes 6018a, middle (venting) fluid distribution tubes 6018b, and outer (shower/comfort) fluid distribution tubes 6018c that are in fluid communication with these chambers through restrictor holes (not numbered) sealingly mounted transversely in a second planar member 6050 within the housing 6012. This mechanism is similar to the valve actuation mechanism described above with reference to FIGS. 40A-C and therefore will not be described again. The vent tube 6018b will be described with reference to FIGS. 75A-D.

The rotatable actuator ring 6064 also serves to adjust the height of the stacked, dual manifold 6020ab, 6020c via the movable outlet plate 6023, thereby selectively adjusting the degree of turbine oscillation imparted to the connected distribution tubes 6018a and 6018b by movement of the upper manifold 6020ab via the outlet plate 6023. Similarly, the degree of turbine oscillation imparted to the connected distribution tube 6018c is selectively adjusted by movement of the lower manifold 6020c via the outlet plate 6023. This mechanism is similar to that described above with reference to fig. 57 and 58 and therefore will not be described, except to note that the turbine cam 6038 is particularly complex for different degrees of oscillation (or lack thereof) of the assemblies 6020a, 6020 b.

The spray apparatus 6010 also includes one or more concentrating elements in the form of flexible concentrating arms or straps 6042a that are each connected to a second planar member 6050 above the concentrating members 6020ab, 6020 c. The centering arms 6042a cooperate with corresponding centering cams 6042b to laterally displace the middle portion of the dispensing tube as the outlet plate 6043 moves up/down by rotation of the circumferential ring 6064. The focusing arm includes a flange portion 6042c that engages and bends the distribution tube 5818 to adjust the fluid distribution direction of the tubes (only tube 6018a is shown as bent, but the other tubes 6018b, 6018c may be similarly bent) in a convergent (or divergent) manner, i.e., to focus the spray pattern formed by the fluid beams distributed from the plurality of distribution tubes. Thus, the right half of fig. 60 depicts a concentrated, narrow spray configuration, while the left half of fig. 60 depicts an unconcentrated (normal), wide spray configuration.

Fig. 61A is a schematic top view showing forty-five fluid distribution tubes 6118 grouped into fifteen groups of three tubes 6117 for a particular tube concentration effect. Fig. 61B-C are schematic cross-sectional views of the triplet 6117 tube of fig. 61A in a converging state (fig. 61B) and a normal state (fig. 61C). The sets of tubes are converged to produce a consistent fluid stream by upward movement of the outlet plate 6123 (similar to the movement described above for the outlet plate 6023), which forces the actuator plate 6160 (including its central restrictor hole 6162) into engagement with the cam 6152 depending from the second planar member 6150. Thus, each focusing element (i.e., actuator plate 6160) can be used to adjust the fluid dispensing direction of a set of dispensing tubes in a uniformly converging (or diverging) manner. The concentrating element may be integrally formed with the manifold, as described above. In addition, each focusing element may be used to produce a high impact spray, a soft impact spray, or a combination thereof, depending on its associated group. Moreover, a plurality of such concentrating elements may operate in a uniformly converging manner to produce high impact sprays, soft impact sprays, or combinations thereof, according to their respective groups (i.e., the output of the groups is collected and concentrated).

Fig. 61D, 61E, and 61F are side schematic views of alternative sets of paired (rather than three) fluid distribution conduits that are unconcentrated (fig. 61D), some concentrated (fig. 61E), and most concentrated (fig. 61F).

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art and informed by the present disclosure, the distribution tubes provided herein may comprise: flexible pipe body having a non-uniform stiffness at its periphery such that application of a uniform lateral force about the periphery will cause non-uniform lateral bending of the pipe body. The non-uniform rigidity may be provided by the tubular body having a non-uniform wall thickness around its circumference. Alternatively, the non-uniform rigidity may be provided by the tubular body having a non-uniform distribution of ribs around its circumference. It will also be appreciated that the flexible pipe body may have a non-uniform stiffness along its length such that application of a transverse force to the pipe body will cause the pipe body to bend non-uniformly along its length. This uneven rigidity may be provided by the tube body having a non-uniform wall thickness along its length. Alternatively, the non-uniform rigidity may be provided by the tubular body having a non-uniform rib distribution along its length.

Thus, fig. 62A-B are schematic side sectional views of a fluid distribution tube 6218 employing ribs 6217 that are unevenly distributed about its periphery (and along its length) for achieving uneven bending of the tube. Figure 62C shows an elliptical spray pattern 6215 within the total spray range 6213 formed by the non-uniformly distributed ribs according to figures 62A-B. FIG. 62D is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a fluid distribution tube having a non-uniform wall thickness about its periphery to achieve non-uniform bending of the tube;

fig. 63-64 are cross-sectional schematic views of alternative hand-held spray devices 6310, 6410 employing rotatable control caps 6360, 5460 for adjusting the height of turbine-driven horizontal cams 6338a, 6438a via respective turbine shafts 6334, 6434 that rotate with control caps, splined vertical cams 6338b, 6438b that are pinned for rotation with the turbine shafts so that the degree of turbine oscillation imparted to the connected distribution conduits 6319, 6419 by the horizontal cams 6338a, 6438a fixed for rotation with the turbine heads 6330, 6430 can be selectively adjusted. The spray housings 6312, 6412 may be integrally formed (or connected) with respective handles 6311, 6411 for delivering fluid (internally) to the housing and for grasping by a user (externally) in a conventional manner. The spray apparatus 6310, 6410 is shown as employing respective axial feed or radial feed turbines (labeled 6324, 6424).

Fig. 65A-B are cross-sectional schematic views of a kitchen faucet spray apparatus 6510 employing a pivoting lever 6585 for actuating the valve 6562 and adjusting the height of the flexible manifold 6520 to adjust the degree of turbine oscillation (wider in fig. 65A, narrower in fig. 65B) applied to the connected dispensing tube 6518, which converges/diverges in unison to achieve a converging effect (converging in fig. 65B), and fluid is directed to a central vent (fig. 65A) or connected dispensing tube (fig. 65B). Thus, the spraying device housing 6512 is preferably adapted for use in kitchen faucet installations (as opposed to, for example, wall mounted or hand held spraying devices).

More specifically, the spraying apparatus 6510 includes a housing 6512 having a fluid inlet 6514, a plurality of tubes 6518 for dispensing fluid from the housing, and a vent for dispensing a gas-liquid mixture from the housing 6512. The manifold 6520 is operatively connected to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes 6518 for coordinated movement of the connected tubes in accordance with movement of the manifold. A cam turbine actuator 6524 is employed for imparting oscillating motion to the manifold 6520.

A valve assembly comprising an operating lever/actuator 6585, a transverse arm 6584, a first valve stem portion 6563a, a second valve stem portion 6563b, and a valve 6562 is employed to regulate the flow of liquid between the dispensing tube 6518 and the venting device 6568. The ventilation means is preferably centrally located with respect to the distribution pipe. The dispensing tube is preferably flexible to facilitate adjustment of the fluid dispensing direction or shape by application of a lateral force at one or more locations along the length of the tube.

Another actuator rod 6563c is mounted on the valve stem portion 6563a for movement therewith. The actuator rod may be used to engage the planar member 6526 of the manifold 6520 to modify the height of the position at which the centerline restrictor hole 6528 of the manifold engages the turbine cam 6538 to provide selective adjustment of the resulting oscillatory effect of the connected pipe 6518.

The spray apparatus 6510 further includes one or more concentrating elements in the form of spider arms 6542 that form part of the manifold (i.e., the components 6520, 6541, and 6542 are integrally formed) with an annulus 6541 having an operating clearance (which in this embodiment carries fluid) around the turbine shaft 6534. Spider arm 5642 is connected to dispensing tube 5618 by its engagement with a flexible band 6518s that is connected (i.e., integrally formed) at or near the entrance to each tube 6518b for pivotally mounting tube 6518b within housing 6512. The concentrating element (i.e., spider arm 6542) also engages the outboard hub portion 6519 of the hub 6520 such that the spider arm 6542 and the belt 6518 are both constrained by movement of the hub 6520. Accordingly, the spider arm 6542 and the band 6518s and the dispensing duct 6518 are moved by the adjustment of the engagement position of the manifold 6520 and the turbine cam 6538 described above, thereby adjusting the fluid dispensing direction of the dispensing duct 6518 in a uniformly converging (or diverging) manner, that is, concentrating the spray shape formed by the fluid beams dispensed from the plurality of dispensing ducts. Thus, an unconcentrated (normal) wide spray configuration with wide turbine oscillations is depicted in FIG. 65A, while a concentrated, narrow spray configuration with narrow turbine oscillations is depicted in FIG. 65B.

Fig. 66A-B are schematic sectional and schematic elevational views of an alternative spray apparatus 6610 mounted in a spray wall W and employing actuating levers 6685a, 6685B for adjusting the direction of guidance of the distribution pipe 6618 in a consistent manner. An actuator wheel for adjusting the degree of oscillation applied to the connected dispensing tube 6619 is also employed.

More specifically, the spraying device 6610 comprises a housing 6621 which is mounted in a wall space WS exposed by an opening WO in the wall W. The housing 6612 has a fluid inlet 6614 for receiving a fluid supply duct running behind the wall, and an open end 6613 aligned with the wall opening WO. A panel 6612c, which desirably forms a component part of the housing 6612, is used to engage the open end 6613 of the housing. The panel has a plurality of fluid outlets 6616 through which downstream portions of a plurality of tubes 6618 pass, the tubes being arranged to dispense fluid from the housing 6612 via the fluid outlets 6616 of the panel 6623.

The manifold 6620 is operatively connected to at least a subset of the plurality of tubes 6618 for coordinated movement of the connected tubes according to the movement of the manifold 6620. Actuators are used for moving the tubes and the assemblies.

The actuator preferably includes a pair of levers 6685a, 6685b, each pivotally connected to the direction control disk 6640 and extending through a slot portion of the panel 6612c for applying a pivoting force to the direction control disk 6640. Thus, the lever 6685a is slidable through a slit 6686a in the panel 6612c for adjusting the designated positioning of each of the connected dispensing tubes 6618, thereby adjusting (i.e., directing) the fluid dispensing direction of the dispensing tube up or down in a consistent manner. Similarly, a lever 6685b is slidable through a slot 6686b in a panel 6612c for guiding the tube 6618 to the left or right in a consistent manner. Because the tube position adjustment structure operates independently of the movement of the housing 6612 (i.e., the housing is stationary relative to the wall), the usual rotating/spherical housing mounting bracket is not required. With various other embodiments of the present aspect, the distribution tube 6618 is preferably flexible, thereby facilitating adjustment of the fluid distribution direction or shape by applying a lateral force at one or more locations along the length of the tube.

In addition, the actuator of the spray device 6610 preferably includes a turbine 6624 supported for rotational movement within the housing 6612 under the flow of fluid from the fluid inlet 6614 to the one or more fluid outlets 6616. The manifold 6620 is operatively connected to the turbine 6624 for oscillatory movement relative to the housing 6612 under the rotational movement of the turbine 6624. The control wheel 6660 extends at least partially through the face plate 6612c and engages the turbine wheel (e.g., via a gear train, not shown) to adjust the axial position of the turbine shaft 6634 (including its cam portion 6638) relative to the hub portion 6621 of the manifold 6620, thereby allowing adjustment of the degree of oscillation applied to the connected tube 6619.

The container box 6670 is mounted in a wall space WS exposed by an opening WO in the wall W for accommodating the housing 6612. The container box 6670 has a neck 6672 for receiving a fluid supply conduit (not shown) in the wall space and an open end 6674 aligned with the wall opening WO and the open end 6613 of the housing 6621. The fluid inlet 6614 of the housing is defined by a fitting 6615 adapted to fit sealingly within the neck 6672 of the cartridge 6670.

Fig. 67A-B are a cross-sectional schematic and side-view schematic of an alternative spray apparatus 6710 having a variable worm gear cam interface for adjusting the degree of oscillation imparted to a connected dispensing tube 6719 by the manifold 6720 and a focusing mechanism for consistently converging/diverging the dispensing tubes to achieve a focusing effect. The spray device 6720 is mounted in close proximity to the wall by sealing, threadingly engaging the housing neck 6712a that houses the conduit 6711, without the use of a spray ball/swivel mount.

The spraying apparatus 6720 employs a directional control dial 6740 for bending the tube 6718 at an intermediate position thereon to consistently achieve the desired guidance of the assigned position of the dispensing tube. The direction control dial 6740 is essentially free floating, but the inherent rigidity of the flexible tube 6718 will constrain the dial with respect to (permanent) rotation. The rotatable control ring 6760 has an inner cam profile 6762 for applying a lateral force to the directional control ring 6740 as the ring 6760 rotates.

A shaft 6764 is provided for rotation about its own axis within the housing 6712, and rotation of the control ring 6760 causes rotation of the crank arm 6764 through engagement of the ring shoulder 6760a with the lower end 6764a of the crank arm 6764. The crank arm 6764 engages the slidable liner 6766 such that rotation of the shaft about its axis causes a slight raising of the slidable liner 6766 along the turbine shaft 6734 such that the flange member 6768 secured to the turbine shaft 6734 moves up or down. This in turn causes the turbine cam 6738 to move up/down so as to selectively vary the degree of oscillation imparted to the manifold 6720 by the turbine 6724.

Fig. 68-73 show a cross-sectional schematic view of an alternative spray apparatus X10, allowing a dispense tube X18 mounted close to the wall and consistently guided through a free floating manifold X20 (particularly its planar member X26) by means of a movable control ring actuator X22 and a spring mount X60 (e.g., molded plastic component) without the need to spray balls/swivel mounts. The inherent self-centering nature of the connected tube X18 prevents unwanted tangential forces that may be caused by rotation of the control ring X22. Thus, the manifold X20 is at least partially supported by the housing through the open end thereof and has a plurality of flow restriction ports X16 for passage of a plurality of tubes X19 therethrough, thereby allowing coordinated movement of the connected tubes in accordance with movement of the manifold. The control ring X22 is adjustably supported by a spring washer X60 that releasably secures the control ring in one or more positions relative to the housing. The spray device 7410 of fig. 74 is similarly configured, except that the manifold 7420 is integrally formed with the control ring 7422, requiring a retaining washer assembly 7470 that prevents rotation with the confinement ring 7422.

Fig. 75A-D are cross-sectional and cutaway schematic views of different vent tap configurations for a fluid dispensing tube 7518 of a spray apparatus. The dispensing tube of the present aspect includes a tube body 7518b and a vent plug 7518p for insertion into an upper end 7518i of the tube body. The tube 7518b employs a venturi effect and is preferably flexible to allow for adjustment of the fluid dispensing direction or shape by application of lateral forces at one or more locations along the length of the tube.

At least one of the tube 7518b and the tap 7518p is adapted to be coupled to a portion of a spray device. In a particular embodiment, as shown in fig. 75, the tap 7518p is integrally formed in a transverse planar receiving member 7550 in which the tube 7518 is mounted. The plug 7518p has one or more first channels 7518a that conduct water through itself and one or more channels 7518b that conduct air through itself. The cross-sectional shape of the first channel 7518a can take the form of one of a circle, an axis, a curve, and combinations thereof. The cross-sectional shape of the second channel 7518b can take the form of one of a circle, an axis, a curve, and combinations thereof. The second channel is preferably separate from the first channel. Fig. 75B and 75C show respective top and bottom views taken through the tap 7518 p. Figure 75D is a top cross-sectional view of an alternative faucet provided with first and second channels 7518a ', 7518 b'.

From the foregoing description, it will be understood that various modifications and changes may be made in the preferred and alternative embodiments of the present invention without departing from its true spirit. Thus, for example, although several components of the spray device described above have been described as being separate from one another, it will be appreciated that such components may certainly be manufactured integrally, thereby reducing costs. For example, the tube 4618, the strap 4618s, the mesh 4641, the posts 4640, and the manifold 4620 (see fig. 46) may be manufactured as one piece in a so-called "overmolding" operation.

The description herein is for the purpose of illustration only and is not to be construed as limiting the invention. The scope of the invention should be determined only by the claims that follow. The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and "including" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. Except where specifically excluded, "a," "an," and other singular terms are intended to include the plural forms as well.

Claims

1. A spray device comprising:

a housing having a fluid inlet and a plurality of fluid outlets;

a turbine supported within the housing for rotational movement under the action of fluid flow from the fluid inlet to one or more fluid outlets, wherein the turbine has an eccentric fixed for rotation therewith;

a hub operatively connected to the eccentric for oscillatory movement relative to the housing under the action of the rotational movement of the turbine; and

a planar member mounted in the housing against a rotary seal, the planar member including a plurality of first flow restriction ports; and

a plurality of flexible tubes, each flexible tube disposed within one of the fluid outlets for dispensing fluid from the housing, each of the plurality of flexible tubes having a portion disposed within one of the plurality of first flow-restricting orifices and having a portion operatively connected to the manifold for causing coordinated movement of the plurality of flexible tubes.

2. The spray apparatus of claim 1 in which said planar member is mounted between said manifold and said fluid inlet and each of said plurality of flexible tubes has an upstream portion attached within one of said first flow restriction ports and a downstream portion operatively connected to said manifold for causing coordinated movement of said plurality of flexible tubes.

3. The spray apparatus of claim 1 in which said manifold is mounted between said planar member and said fluid inlet and each of said plurality of flexible tubes has a downstream portion disposed within one of said first flow restriction ports and an upstream portion attached to said manifold, said manifold providing for coordinated movement of said plurality of flexible tubes.

4. A spraying device as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the oscillating movement of the manifold comprises at least one of circular, elliptical and linear movement.

5. The spraying device of any of the preceding claims 1-3, the flexible tube comprising a natural polymer, a synthetic polymer, or a combination thereof.

6. A spraying device according to any one of the preceding claims 1-3, wherein the flexible tubes are positioned relative to each other in a parallel, diverging, converging or a combination thereof configuration.

7. A spraying device according to any of the preceding claims 1-3, wherein the fluid inlet directs fluid towards the turbine in a direction selected from axial, radial, tangential and combinations thereof.

8. A spraying device according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 3, at least a portion of the housing being substantially cylindrical.

9. A spraying device according to any one of the preceding claims 1-3, wherein the rotational motion of the turbine comprises spinning, nutating or a combination thereof.

10. A spraying device according to any one of the preceding claims 1-3, wherein the turbine comprises a head having at least one inclined or curved blade on its upper surface.

11. A spraying device as claimed in claim 10, in which the turbine comprises a head having at least two inclined or curved blades on its upper surface, the head being radially symmetrical.

12. The spray apparatus of claim 10, wherein:

the manifold includes a substantially central flow restriction orifice; and also

The turbine includes:

a shaft depending from the turbine head and extending at least partially through the planar member to secure the eccentric to the turbine.

13. The spray apparatus of claim 12 in which the shaft of the turbine is disposed in an opening formed through a lower portion of the turbine head.

14. A spraying device as claimed in claim 13, in which the shaft of the turbine is fixed for rotation with the turbine head.

15. The spray apparatus of claim 14 in which the shaft of the turbine is integrally formed with the turbine head.

16. The spray apparatus of claim 12 in which the eccentric is supported within a generally central flow restricting aperture of the manifold.

17. The spray apparatus of claim 16 in which the eccentric is integrally formed with the turbine head.

18. A spraying device as claimed in claim 12, in which

The planar member includes a generally central flow restriction orifice in which the shaft of the turbine is supported for rotation.

19. The spray apparatus of claim 16 in which the shaft of the turbine is supported within a substantially central restricted flow aperture of the turbine and manifold such that the turbine is rotationally supported by the manifold.

20. A spraying device as claimed in claim 18, in which the shaft of the turbine is arranged for nutation within a substantially central restricted flow aperture of the manifold.

21. A spraying device as claimed in claim 12, in which

The eccentric is supported about the shaft of the turbine for rotation within the restrictor bore of the manifold such that spinning of the turbine about the axis of the shaft of the turbine causes nutation of the turbine.

22. A spraying device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims 1 to 3, in which the manifold engages with each flexible tube at a similar engagement location on each flexible tube.

23. A spraying device as claimed in claim 22, in which the engagement location is at or near a downstream portion of each of the flexible tubes.

24. A spraying device as claimed in claim 22, in which the engagement location is midway between the upstream and downstream portions of each flexible tube.

25. A spraying device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, in which oscillation of the manifold causes coordinated oscillation of the operatively engaged portions of each of the flexible tubes.

26. The spray apparatus of claim 23 in which the oscillation of the operatively engaging portion of each of the flexible tubes comprises at least one of circular, elliptical and linear motion.

27. The spray apparatus of claim 26 in which movement of the operatively engaging portion of the flexible tube within the flexible nozzle produces a generally conical fluid spray pattern for each nozzle.

28. A spraying device according to any one of the preceding claims 1-3, wherein the planar member further comprises:

a plurality of second flow restriction ports, wherein,

a second portion of flexible tubing not operatively engaged with the manifold, each second portion of flexible tubing having an upstream portion attached within one of the second plurality of flow-restricting orifices and a downstream portion extending at least partially through one of the fluid outlets such that fluid flowing into the fluid inlet is directed through the second portion of flexible tubing via the second plurality of flow-restricting orifices.

29. The spray apparatus of claim 1 further comprising an additional planar member supported for limited rotation within said housing about a central axis, said additional planar member including a plurality of eccentrically-positioned angularly-oriented slots for engagement with an intermediate portion between the upstream and downstream portions of the respective flexible tubes by extension of said flexible tube portions through said plurality of eccentric slots of said additional planar member, said additional planar member being rotatable relative to said housing to rotate said flexible tube portions.

30. A spraying device according to claim 1, in which

The manifold is planar and supported for rotation about a central axis within the housing; and is

The hub includes a plurality of angularly positioned slots for engagement with portions of the respective flexible tubes between the upstream and downstream portions thereof by extending portions of the flexible tubes through the plurality of angularly positioned slots, the hub being rotatable relative to the housing for moving the portions of flexible tubes.

31. The spray apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:

a container box adapted to be mounted within a wall space exposed through an opening in a wall, the container box having a neck portion for receiving a fluid supply conduit within the wall space and an open end for alignment with the wall opening;

a housing for fitting with the container box, the housing having an open end for aligning with the open end of the container box, and a fluid inlet defined by a fitting adapted to fit sealingly in the neck of the container box; and

a faceplate for engaging the open end of the housing, the faceplate having a plurality of fluid outlets,

wherein the plurality of flexible tubes dispense fluid from the housing via the fluid outlet of the panel.

32. The spraying apparatus of claim 1,

each flexible tube comprises a tube body; and a vent cock for insertion into one end of the tube, the cock having one or more first channels for directing water therethrough and one or more second channels for directing air therethrough;

at least one of the tube and the tap is adapted to be connected to a portion of the spraying device.

33. A spraying device according to claim 1, in which each flexible tube comprises a flexible tube body having a non-uniform rigidity therearound such that application of a uniform lateral force thereacross will result in non-uniform lateral bending of said tube body.