Multi-function showerhead filter system with swivel inlet connection

Abstract

A multi-function showerhead filter system includes a ball-like swivel-mounted inlet joint having a fluid input to the housing, the inlet joint including a fluid input cavity converging, at a distal end, into a venturi outlet. The system also includes a pressure chamber formed within the housing, downstream of the venturi outlet and in fluid communication with it, the chamber having an inlet at least equal to a largest radius of the venturi outlet. The system also includes a turbulence-inducing water filter cartridge secured within the housing downstream of the pressure chamber and having an inlet surface in fluid and mechanical communication with it. The system further includes an output within the housing, secured downstream of the filter cartridge and in fluid communication with it, the output of which is passed through the cartridge, into one of the function modes of spraying, bubbling and massaging.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This application is a continuation of patent application Ser. No. 10 / 253,687, filed on Sep. 25, 2002, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Area of the Invention [0003] The present invention relates to showerhead systems having an internal filtration system. [0004] 2. Prior Art [0005] The recognition and linking of macroscopic and microscopic pathogens to the aesthetic and health qualities of water has resulted in a search for effective water disinfects and treatment procedures. The introduction of water chlorinization, as a continuous water disinfecting process, occurred early in the twentieth century. Today approximately 80% of all potable water systems in the United States use chlorine as a water disinfectant. [0006] However, the treatment of water with chlorine has certain side effects. Even in lower concentrations, such as originally used by commercial food processors and bot...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0011] It is another object to provide a showerhead filter system having a compact geometry and a wide range of swivel capability of the showerhead portion versus an inlet joint thereof.

[0012] It is a still further object of the invention to provide a showerhead filter system which includes a readily changeable and standardized filter, which includes internal filtration media to effectively disinfect, oxidize or reduce pathogenic microorganisms and toxic compounds which would otherwise be created by the effect of chlorine upon fatty acids, other organics, and carbon fragments within the water supply.

[0014] It is a still further object to accomplish the objects above set forth without the use of a showerhead filter system having long or complex pads of water flow therein It is a further object to provide a showerhead filter system of the above type which will provide enhanced turbulence and, thereby, increase exposure of the water passing therethrough to the internal filtration media of the filter of the showerhead system.

Problems solved by technology

However, the treatment of water with chlorine has certain side effects.

Even in lower concentrations, such as originally used by commercial food processors and bottlers, chlorine creates an objectionable odor and taste.

According to research findings presented at a meeting of the American Chemical Society in the 1980's, it was shown that the taking of long, hot showers is a health risk.

Moreover, the chlorine also escapes to the surrounding air and can be harmful to persons breathing the air around showers and bath, and thus increasing the chance of harmful exposure beyond that which such persons would encounter by actually drinking the water.

Such solutions have, however, not proven to be cost-effective, this typically due to the requirement of use of costly special purpose filters, awkward inlet valves, limited functionality of the outlet spray of the showerhead, and inefficient internal water flow or pressurization.

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