pipe system

Abstract

A plumbing system is provided with a digital mixing valve that provides a main flow having a controlled temperature and flow rate. Downstream of the digital mixing valve, a fluid delivery device is also provided that has two or more groups of outlets, each group comprising at least two outlets and having an outlet operating valve disposed upstream of the group of outlets and operable to control fluid flow to the group of outlets downstream thereof. A communication link is also provided between the digital mixing valve and the outlet operating valves. The digital mixing valve is configured to adjust the temperature and flow rate of the main flow in use in dependence on which group or combination of groups of outlets are in operation at a given time.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to UK application GB2203711.3, filed on 17 March 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to piping systems, and in particular to piping systems including fluid transport equipment with two or more sets of outlets. Background Technology

[0004] Fluid conveying equipment with two or more sets of outlets can provide users with a variety of spray patterns or spray modes to choose from, depending on which set of outlets or combination of outlets is operating at a given time.

[0005] However, in order to maintain a high-quality user experience in any and all combinations of spray patterns or spray modes, it may be necessary to adjust the temperature and / or flow rate of the water supplied to the fluid delivery equipment. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention provides a piping system comprising: a digital mixing valve providing a main flow with controlled temperature and flow rate; a fluid delivery device located downstream of the digital mixing valve having two or more sets of outlets and an outlet operating valve, each of the two or more sets of outlets including at least two outlets, the outlet operating valve being disposed upstream of each set of outlets and controlling fluid flow to the set of outlets downstream thereof; a communication link located between the digital mixing valve and the outlet operating valve; the digital mixing valve being configured in use to adjust the temperature and flow rate of the main flow based on which set of outlets or combination of sets of outlets is operating at a given time.

[0007] Preferably, the fluid delivery device includes a spray head.

[0008] Preferably, the digital mixing valve is an instant water heater.

[0009] Preferably, the fluid delivery device includes up to 20 outlets.

[0010] Preferably, one or more of the multiple outlets are located within the fluid conveying equipment.

[0011] Preferably, each of the outlet operating valves can operate independently of any other outlet operating valve.

[0012] Preferably, one or more of the outlet operating valves include solenoid valves.

[0013] Preferably, the piping system further includes an electronic controller operably connected to the digital mixing valve and the outlet operating valve.

[0014] Preferably, the piping system further includes a user input mechanism that allows a user to input one or more commands to the electronic controller.

[0015] Preferably, the piping system further includes one or more lighting elements that emit light during use.

[0016] Preferably, the fluid delivery device includes one or more lighting elements that emit light during use.

[0017] Preferably, one or more of the lighting elements are operatively connected to the electronic controller.

[0018] Preferably, the electronic controller controls the operation of one or more of the lighting elements in conjunction with the operation of the multiple sets of outlets.

[0019] Preferably, the electronic controller, during use, changes one or more characteristics of the light emitted by one or more of the lighting elements based on which set of outlets or combinations of outlets are operating at any given time.

[0020] Preferably, the electronic controller, during use, alters one or more characteristics of the light emitted by one or more of the lighting elements based on the temperature of the fluid flow, such as the temperature of the main stream.

[0021] Preferably, the piping system further includes one or more turbine generators, which are driven by fluid flow during use.

[0022] The present invention also provides a piping system comprising: a digital mixing valve; at least two outlet operating valves, wherein each outlet operating valve is in fluid communication with the digital mixing valve, the digital mixing valve controlling fluid flow to each outlet operating valve, including the temperature and pressure of the fluid flow; a corresponding set of outlets in fluid communication with each outlet operating valve, wherein each outlet operating valve controls fluid flow to its corresponding set of outlets; and an electronic controller communicating with the digital mixing valve and the at least two outlet operating valves, the electronic controller being configured to control the digital mixing valve to adjust the temperature and pressure of the fluid flow according to which of the at least two outlet operating valves is open.

[0023] Preferably, the multiple sets of outlets are arranged in the spray head.

[0024] Preferably, each outlet operating valve can operate independently of any other outlet operating valve.

[0025] The present invention also provides a method comprising: communicating between an electronic controller and at least two outlet operating valves to determine which of the at least two outlet operating valves is open to allow fluid flow to the set of outlets associated with each outlet operating valve; instructing a digital mixing valve via the electronic controller to adjust the temperature and pressure of the fluid flow supplied to the at least two outlet operating valves according to which outlet operating valve is open; adjusting the temperature and pressure of the fluid flow via the digital mixing valve according to instructions from the digital mixing valve; and supplying the temperature and pressure adjusted fluid flow from the digital mixing valve to those valves that are open among the at least two operating valves. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings:

[0027] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an example piping system is shown;

[0028] Figure 2 A first sectional view of a sprinkler head for an example piping system is shown; and

[0029] Figure 3 A second cross-sectional view of an example sprinkler head is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0030] A first aspect of the invention provides a piping system comprising: a means operable to provide a main stream having a controlled temperature and flow rate; a fluid transport device located downstream of the means operable to provide a main stream having a controlled temperature and flow rate, the fluid transport device having two or more sets of outlets, each set of the two or more sets of outlets including at least two outlets, an outlet operating valve disposed upstream of each set of outlets and operable to control fluid flowing to the set of outlets downstream thereof; a communication link between the means operable to provide a main stream having a controlled temperature and flow rate and the outlet operating valve; wherein the means operable to provide a main stream having a controlled temperature and flow rate is configured in use to adjust the temperature and flow rate of the main stream based on which set of outlets or a combination of sets of outlets is operating at a given time.

[0031] Fluid delivery equipment may include shower heads, such as shower heads for showering.

[0032] Operable devices for providing a mains flow with controlled temperature and rate may include, for example, instantaneous water heaters, mixing valves, or similar components. The mixing valve may be a digital mixing valve. The mixing valve may be a thermostatic mixing valve.

[0033] Fluid conveying equipment may include up to 5 outlets, up to 10 outlets, or up to 20 outlets.

[0034] For example, a fluid conveying device may include a first set of outlets, a second set of outlets, and a third set of outlets. A fluid conveying device may also include one or more additional sets of outlets, such as a fourth set of outlets.

[0035] One or more sets of outlets, such as all sets of outlets, can be installed within the fluid conveying equipment.

[0036] Each set of outlets can be configured to provide a different spray pattern than other sets of outlets.

[0037] Any given group of exports may include up to 10 exports, up to 20 exports, up to 50 exports, or up to 100 exports.

[0038] There may be nozzles in one or more outlets.

[0039] Fluid delivery equipment may include one or more spray surfaces. Each spray surface may have one or more outlets.

[0040] The outlet operating valve located upstream of each set of outlets can include any suitable valve to allow or prevent fluid flow to the set of outlets downstream of it. Each outlet operating valve can operate independently of any other outlet operating valve. Thus, one or more outlet operating valves can be opened at any time, and these one or more outlet operating valves can be closed at any time. In use, any one outlet operating valve can be opened or closed at any time. Thus, one or more individual spray patterns or spray configurations can be formed by a corresponding set of outlets or a combination of multiple sets of outlets.

[0041] One or more outlet operating valves may include solenoid valves, such as bistable solenoid valves.

[0042] In this implementation, each outlet operating valve can be electrically operated. Each outlet operating valve can be configured to have a closed state and an open state. It can be in the closed state when no electrical signal is transmitted to the outlet operating valve. It can be in the open state when an electrical signal is transmitted to the outlet operating valve.

[0043] One or more outlet-operated valves may include solenoid valves. Each solenoid valve may be a bistable solenoid valve. When an electrical pulse is sent to each valve, each bistable solenoid valve can be operated to change between a closed state and an open state, and vice versa. Thus, each solenoid valve can be configured to move between a retracted and an extended position when an electrical pulse is provided, and vice versa. Each solenoid valve can be configured to remain in the retracted or extended state between the sent electrical pulses.

[0044] At least one of one or more outlet operating valves can be configured to open when the valve is in the closed state. Thus, in the absence of power supply to the outlet operating valve, such as due to a power outage or a dead battery, if water flow is delivered to the outlet operating valve, at least one spray pattern will be generated.

[0045] The communication link operable to provide a mains-operated device and an outlet-operated valve may include any suitable means for transmitting data. This communication link may include a wired connection or a wireless connection.

[0046] The piping system may include an electronic controller. This electronic controller may be operably connected to a device operable to provide mains and outlet operating valves. The electronic controller may be configured to transmit and / or receive electronic signals from the device operable to provide mains and / or the outlet operating valves.

[0047] The piping system may include a user input mechanism. This user input mechanism may include any suitable mechanism operable to allow a user to input one or more commands to the electronic controller.

[0048] The electronic controller can be configured to send an electronic signal to any one of the outlet operating valves to open or close the outlet operating valve. The electronic controller can also be configured to open or close any combination of outlet operating valves. Thus, the resulting spray pattern can include any single set of outlets or a combination of multiple sets of outlets.

[0049] The operable device for providing a main flow can be configured in use to increase, decrease, and / or maintain the same fluid temperature when any outlet operating valve is in operation. The operable device for providing a main flow can be configured in use to increase, decrease, and / or maintain the same fluid flow rate when any outlet operating valve is in operation.

[0050] The piping system can be configured so that the user can change the spray pattern, fluid flow rate, and / or fluid temperature. The user can change the spray pattern, fluid flow rate, and / or fluid temperature through a user input mechanism or any other suitable device.

[0051] The controller is operable to transmit signals to devices operable to provide a mains flow to increase or decrease the fluid temperature. The controller is also operable to transmit signals to devices operable to provide a mains flow to increase or decrease the fluid velocity.

[0052] The piping system may include a device for detecting the mainstream temperature. This device for detecting the mainstream temperature is operatively connected to an electronic controller.

[0053] The piping system may include a device for detecting the main flow velocity. This device for detecting the main flow velocity is operatively connected to an electronic controller.

[0054] The controller can be configured to, when changing the spray pattern generated from the spray head, send signals to operable devices for providing a main flow path to increase or decrease the fluid temperature. The controller can also be configured to, when changing the spray pattern generated from the spray head, send signals to operable devices for providing a main flow path to increase or decrease the fluid velocity.

[0055] The controller can be configured to send a signal to a device operable to provide a mains flow to increase or decrease the fluid temperature when the fluid flow rate is changed.

[0056] The controller can be configured to send a signal to a device operable to increase or decrease the fluid flow rate when the fluid temperature changes.

[0057] User input mechanisms may include one or more dials, levers, handles, buttons, touchscreens, or the like.

[0058] The piping system may include one or more illumination elements operable to emit light during use, and the fluid transport equipment may include one or more illumination elements operable to emit light during use. For example, the illumination elements may be located on or near the spray surface.

[0059] One or more lighting elements are operatively connected to an electronic controller. Therefore, the operation of one or more lighting elements, such as all lighting elements, can be controlled in conjunction with the operation of multiple sets of outlets. For example, during use, one or more characteristics of the light emitted by one or more lighting elements can be changed depending on which set of outlets or combinations of sets of outlets are operational at any given time. Alternatively or additionally, during use, one or more characteristics of the light emitted by one or more lighting elements can vary according to the temperature of the fluid, such as the temperature of the main stream. The variable characteristics of the light emitted by one or more lighting elements during use may include, for example, color, brightness, intensity, sequence, or pattern, such as pulsed or flashing patterns.

[0060] By combining the working control of multiple sets of outlets with one or more characteristics of the light emitted by one or more lighting elements, the piping system can provide users with additional information, such as visual information related to water temperature, and / or a multi-sensory experience.

[0061] In an exemplary embodiment, one of the lighting elements may extend completely around the periphery of the spray surface. The lighting element extending completely around the periphery of the spray surface may be a ring lighting element or a halo.

[0062] One or more lighting elements may be located substantially in the center or inside of the spray surface.

[0063] One or more lighting elements may be located in a recess at least partially within the spray surface, for example, positioned in a recess near or at the center of the spray surface.

[0064] One or more lighting elements may extend a distance across the spray surface. For example, one or more lighting elements may extend across at least a portion of the diameter of the spray surface.

[0065] One or more lighting elements may include one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs).

[0066] Electricity may be needed to operate various components of the piping system, such as solenoid valves and / or lighting elements (if present). For example, electricity may be supplied from a remote power source (such as mains power) to one or more components housed within the fluid transport equipment. Alternatively or additionally, electricity may also be supplied from a local power source, such as one or more batteries at least partially located within the fluid transport equipment, to one or more components housed within the fluid transport equipment. These one or more batteries may be rechargeable.

[0067] In another embodiment, the piping system may include one or more turbine generators arranged to be driven by a fluid flow such as a mains flow during use. The electricity generated by the turbine generators can be utilized, for example, to charge batteries and / or power one or more lighting elements.

[0068] Turbine generators can be at least partially housed within fluid transport equipment.

[0069] The piping system may include a manifold configured to receive a main flow at a manifold inlet and have multiple branches, each branch leading to a manifold outlet, wherein an outlet-operated valve is located downstream of each manifold outlet.

[0070] Unless mutually exclusive, any feature of any of the foregoing aspects may be used in any of the other foregoing aspects with necessary modifications.

[0071] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of piping system 1 is shown.

[0072] The piping system 1 includes a digital mixing valve 2, which is operable to provide a main flow 3 with controlled temperature and flow rate. The digital mixing valve 2 receives a first input flow of hot water (not shown) and a second input flow of cold water (not shown). The digital mixing valve 2 operates to mix the first and second input flows in a desired ratio to provide a main flow 3 with controlled temperature and flow rate.

[0073] Manifold 6 is in fluid communication with digital mixing valve 2. Manifold 6 receives main flow 3 at its inlet. Manifold 6 has a first branch leading to a first manifold outlet, a second branch leading to a second manifold outlet, and a third branch leading to a third manifold outlet. First output flow 13 flows out from the first manifold outlet. Second output flow 15 flows out from the second manifold outlet. Third output flow 17 flows out from the third manifold outlet.

[0074] The first set of outlets 14 is in fluid communication with the first manifold outlet. The first set of outlets 14 includes multiple outlets. The first set of outlets 14 provides a first spray pattern.

[0075] A first outlet operating valve 8 is disposed between the manifold 6 and the first set of outlets 14. The first outlet operating valve 8 is operable to allow or prevent the first output flow 13 from flowing to the first set of outlets 14. In an exemplary embodiment, the first outlet operating valve 8 may include a solenoid valve, such as a bistable solenoid valve.

[0076] The second set of outlets 16 is in fluid communication with the second manifold outlet. The second set of outlets 16 includes multiple outlets. The second set of outlets 16 provides a second spray pattern.

[0077] A second outlet operating valve 10 is disposed between the manifold 6 and the second set of outlets 16. The second outlet operating valve 10 is operable to allow or prevent the second output flow 15 from flowing to the second set of outlets 16. In an exemplary embodiment, the second outlet operating valve 10 may include a solenoid valve, such as a bistable solenoid valve.

[0078] The third set of outlets 18 is in fluid communication with the third manifold outlet. The third set of outlets 18 includes multiple outlets. The third set of outlets 18 provides a third spray pattern.

[0079] A third outlet operating valve 12 is disposed between manifold 6 and third set of outlets 18. The third outlet operating valve 12 is operable to allow or prevent the third output flow 17 from flowing to the third set of outlets 18. In an exemplary embodiment, the third outlet operating valve 12 may include a solenoid valve, such as a bistable solenoid valve.

[0080] Manifold 6, first outlet operating valve 8, second outlet operating valve 10, third outlet operating valve 12, first set of outlets 14, second set of outlets 16, and third set of outlets 18 are housed within shower head 4 for overhead or handheld showers. Digital mixing valve 2 may be placed away from shower head 4, for example, within a wall or ceiling cavity. Alternatively, digital mixing valve 2 may be at least partially housed within shower head 4.

[0081] The electronic controller 20 is operably connected to the first outlet operating valve 8, the second outlet operating valve 10, the third outlet operating valve 12 and the digital mixing valve 2.

[0082] The first data connection 22 connects the first outlet operating valve 8 to the electronic controller 20. The first data connection 22 is configured to transmit signals bidirectionally between the first outlet operating valve 8 and the electronic controller 20 during use.

[0083] The second data connection 24 connects the second outlet operating valve 10 to the electronic controller 20. The second data connection 24 is configured to transmit signals bidirectionally between the second outlet operating valve 10 and the electronic controller 20 during use.

[0084] The third data connection 26 connects the third outlet operating valve 12 to the electronic controller 20. The third data connection 26 is configured to transmit signals bidirectionally between the third outlet operating valve 12 and the electronic controller 20 during use.

[0085] The fourth data connection 28 connects the electronic controller 20 to the digital mixing valve 2. The fourth data connection 28 is configured to transmit signals bidirectionally between the electronic controller 20 and the digital mixing valve 2 during use.

[0086] It is understood that the pipeline system 1 includes a communication link between the first outlet operating valve 8 and the digital mixing valve 2, a communication link between the second outlet operating valve 10 and the digital mixing valve 2, and a communication link between the third outlet operating valve 12 and the digital mixing valve 2.

[0087] Because of these communication links, the digital mixing valve 2 is configured to regulate the mainstream temperature and flow rate during use based on which one or a combination of the first set of outlets 14, the second set of outlets 16, and the third set of outlets 18 is active at a given time.

[0088] The piping system 1 includes a user input mechanism (not shown). The user input mechanism includes any suitable device operable to allow a user to input one or more commands to the electronic controller 20. In some embodiments, the user input mechanism may include one or more dials, levers, handles, buttons, touchscreens, or the like.

[0089] It is understood that the digital mixing valve 2 is an example of a device operable to provide a mainstream with controlled temperature and flow rate. Any other device operable to provide a mainstream with controlled temperature and flow rate can be used instead of the digital mixing valve. For example, a device operable to provide a mainstream with controlled temperature and flow rate can include an instantaneous water heater. An instantaneous water heater can receive a single cold water input flow. An instantaneous water heater is operable to heat cold water and regulate the flow of water through it to provide a mainstream with controlled temperature and flow rate. The term "digital mixing valve 2" as used herein will be understood to include all mechanisms that may provide a mainstream with controlled temperature and flow rate, including but not limited to instantaneous water heaters.

[0090] In an exemplary embodiment, the spray head 4 may include a spray surface in which a first set of outlets 14, a second set of outlets 16, and a third set of outlets 18 are at least partially disposed. The spray head 4 may include one or more illumination elements operable in use for emitting light. For example, the illumination elements may be disposed on or near the spray surface.

[0091] One or more lighting elements are operatively connected to electronic controller 20. Therefore, the operation of one or more lighting elements (e.g., all lighting elements) can be controlled in combination with the operation of the first set of outlets 14, the second set of outlets 16, and the third set of outlets 18. For example, in use, one or more characteristics of the light emitted by the one or more lighting elements can be varied depending on which combination of the first set of outlets 14, the second set of outlets 16, and the third set of outlets 18 is operating at any given time. Alternatively or additionally, in use, one or more characteristics of the light emitted by the one or more lighting elements can be varied according to the temperature of the water, such as the temperature of the main stream. The variable characteristics of the light emitted by the one or more lighting elements during use may include, for example, color, brightness, intensity, sequence, or pattern, such as pulsed or flashing patterns.

[0092] By combining the operation of the first set of outlets, the second set of outlets, and the third set of outlets to control one or more characteristics of the light emitted by one or more lighting elements, the piping system can provide users with additional information, such as visual information related to water temperature, and / or a multi-sensory experience.

[0093] In some embodiments, one or more additional components for providing sensory stimulation are operatively connected to the electronic controller 20. Such additional components for providing sensory stimulation may include one or more sound devices, or devices configured to, for example, provide one or more odors. One or more additional components for providing sensory stimulation may be connected to a shower head. When connected to a shower head, the additional components for providing sensory stimulation may be at least partially housed within the shower head.

[0094] In an exemplary embodiment, one of the lighting elements may extend completely around the periphery of the spray surface. The lighting element extending completely around the periphery of the spray surface may be a ring lighting element or a halo.

[0095] One or more lighting elements may include one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs).

[0096] Electricity may be required to operate various components of the piping system, such as solenoid valves and / or lighting elements (if present). For example, electricity may be supplied from a remote power source (such as mains power) to one or more components installed within the shower head 4. Electricity may be supplied to one or more components installed within the shower head 4 by any suitable means, such as via a fourth data connection 28. Alternatively or additionally, electricity may be supplied from a local power source, such as one or more batteries at least partially disposed within the shower head 4, to one or more components housed within the shower head 4. The one or more batteries may be rechargeable.

[0097] In another embodiment, the piping system may include one or more turbine generators, which are arranged in use to be driven by a mains flow, a first output flow, a second output flow, and / or a third output flow. The electricity generated by the turbine generators can be utilized, for example, to charge batteries and / or to power one or more lighting elements.

[0098] The turbine generator can be at least partially housed within the spray head 4.

[0099] Some exemplary operations of piping system 1 will now be described.

[0100] In use, the user can operate the user input mechanism to select a higher or lower temperature. The user input signal is transmitted from the user input mechanism to the controller 20. Then, the controller 20 sends a command signal to the digital mixing valve 2 via the fourth data connection 28, thereby activating the digital mixing valve 2 to adjust the temperature of the main flow 3 to the higher or lower temperature selected by the user.

[0101] During use, the user can operate the user input mechanism to select any one or any combination of the first set of outlets 14, the second set of outlets 16, and the third set of outlets 18 to provide the desired spray pattern or spray mode.

[0102] In order to change the selected spray pattern, the controller 20 sends a command signal to the relevant outlet operating valve to open and / or close the required outlet operating valve to produce the user-selected spray pattern.

[0103] When changing the spray pattern, controller 20 can send one or more command signals to digital mixing valve 2 to change the temperature and / or flow rate of the main stream 3. For example, when the user selects a change from the second set of outlets 16 to the first set of outlets 14, controller 20 can send a command signal to digital mixing valve 2 to maintain the flow rate of the main stream 3 and increase its temperature. For example, when the user selects a change from the first set of outlets 14 to the third set of outlets 18, controller 20 can send a command signal to digital mixing valve 2 to maintain the temperature of the main stream 3 and decrease its flow rate.

[0104] Figure 2 and Figure 3 An example of a shower head 104 for an overhead shower is shown. The shower head 104 may form part of a piping system, such as piping system 1 as described herein.

[0105] The connecting pipe 107 has a first end 105 adapted to connect to a water supply pipe (not shown) for delivering a main fluid flow with controlled temperature and flow rate to the shower head 104. For example, the water supply pipe may protrude from the ceiling of the bathing area, or the water supply pipe may include an arm extending from a wall or post.

[0106] The second end 109 of the connecting pipe 107 communicates with the manifold 106. The manifold 106 has a manifold inlet 111 connected to the second end 109 of the connecting pipe 107. The manifold inlet 111 leads to the manifold chamber. The manifold 106 includes a first manifold branch leading from the manifold chamber to a first manifold outlet and a second manifold branch leading from the manifold chamber to a second manifold outlet.

[0107] In use, the first output stream flows out from the first manifold outlet, and the second output stream flows out from the second manifold outlet.

[0108] The first set of outlets 114 is in fluid communication with the first manifold outlet. The first set of outlets 114 includes multiple outlets. The first set of outlets 114 provides a first spray pattern.

[0109] A first outlet operating valve 108 is disposed between a first manifold outlet [reference] and a first set of outlets 114. The first outlet operating valve 108 is operable to allow or block flow from the first output to the first set of outlets 114. In an example embodiment, the first outlet operating valve 108 may include a solenoid valve, such as a bistable solenoid valve.

[0110] The second set of outlets 116 is in fluid communication with the second manifold outlet. The second set of outlets 116 includes multiple outlets. The second set of outlets 116 provides a second spray pattern.

[0111] A second outlet operating valve 110 is disposed between the second manifold outlet and the second set of outlets 116. The second outlet operating valve 110 is operable to allow or prevent flow from the second output to the second set of outlets 116. In an example embodiment, the second outlet operating valve 110 may include a solenoid valve, such as a bistable solenoid valve.

[0112] Manifold 106, first outlet operating valve 108, second outlet operating valve 110, first set of outlets 114 and second set of outlets 116 are installed inside the spray head 104.

[0113] The electronic controller includes a printed circuit board 120 with control circuitry. The printed circuit board 120 is housed within the shower head 104. The printed circuit board 120 is operatively connected to a first outlet operating valve 108, a second outlet operating valve 110, and an illumination element 142 including an LED light strip. When the shower head 104 is installed as part of a piping system, the printed circuit board 120 is configured to be operatively connected to a device, such as a digital mixing valve, operatively located upstream of the shower head 104, for providing a mains flow with controllable rate and temperature.

[0114] The spray head 104 includes a spray surface 140, in which a first set of outlets 114 and a second set of outlets 116 are disposed. The first set of outlets 114 is located at the center of the spray surface 140. The second set of outlets 116 surrounds the first set of outlets 114. An illumination element 142 is located in a recess 144 that extends a distance through the central portion of the spray surface 140. The recess 144 is covered by a transparent cover 146, which protects the illumination element 142 by preventing water from entering the recess 144 and allows light from the illumination element 142 to pass through. The first set of outlets 114 surrounds the recess 144.

[0115] The spray head 104 includes a housing 130. The housing 130 is connected to the spray surface 140 to provide an internal volume 132. A watertight seal is provided between the housing 130 and the spray surface 140 to prevent water from entering the internal volume 132. In the illustrated embodiment, a printed circuit board 120, a first outlet operating valve 108, and a second outlet operating valve 110 are housed within the internal volume 132. The housing 130 includes a rearward aperture 134 through which a connecting tube 107 passes. A first end 105 of the connecting tube 107 is located outside the internal volume 132, and a second end 109 of the connecting tube 107 is located inside the internal volume 132.

[0116] The first data connection connects the first outlet operating valve 108 to the printed circuit board 120. The first data connection is configured to transmit signals bidirectionally between the first outlet operating valve 108 and the printed circuit board 120 during use.

[0117] The second data connection connects the second outlet operating valve 110 to the printed circuit board 120. The second data connection is configured to transmit signals bidirectionally between the second outlet operating valve 110 and the printed circuit board 120 during use.

[0118] When the spray head 104 is installed as part of a piping system, an additional data connection connects the printed circuit board 120 to a device operable to provide a main flow with controlled flow rate and temperature, such as a digital mixing valve located upstream of the spray head 104. The additional data connection is configured to transmit signals bidirectionally between the printed circuit board 120 and the device operable to provide a main flow with controlled flow rate and temperature during use.

[0119] The illumination element 142 is operatively connected to the printed circuit board 120. Therefore, the operation of the illumination element 142 can be controlled in conjunction with the operation of the first set of outlets 114 and the second set of outlets 116. For example, in use, one or more characteristics of the light emitted by the illumination element 142 can be changed based on which combination of the first set of outlets 114 and the second set of outlets 116 is in operation at any given time.

[0120] It is understood that, in the example implementation, the spray head 104 may include any number of outlet operating valves and corresponding outlet assemblies. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The illustrated embodiment shows two outlet operating valves, but it will be understood that the spray head 104 may include any number of outlet operating valves.

[0121] A user input mechanism (not shown) is operatively connected to printed circuit board 120. The user input mechanism may include any suitable device operable to allow a user to input one or more commands to the electronic controller. In some embodiments, the user input mechanism may include one or more control panels, levers, handles, buttons, touchscreens, or the like.

[0122] By combining the operation control of the first set of outlets 114 and the second set of outlets 116 with one or more characteristics of the light emitted by the lighting element 142, the piping system including the shower head 104 can provide the user with additional information, such as visual information related to water temperature, and / or a multi-sensory experience.

[0123] In some implementations, one or more additional components for providing sensory stimulation are operatively connected to an electronic controller. For example, such additional components for providing sensory stimulation may include one or more sound devices, or devices configured to provide one or more odors. One or more additional components for providing sensory stimulation may be connected to a shower head. When connected to a shower head, the additional components for providing sensory stimulation may be at least partially housed within the shower head.

[0124] Electrical power may be required to operate various components of the shower head 104, such as solenoid valves and / or lighting elements. For example, power may be supplied to one or more components housed within the shower head 104 from a remote power source (e.g., mains power). Power can be supplied to the one or more components housed within the shower head 104 by any suitable means (e.g., via an additional data connection). Alternatively or additionally, power may also be supplied to the one or more components housed within the shower head 104 from a local power source, such as one or more batteries at least partially disposed within the shower head 104. The one or more batteries may be rechargeable.

[0125] In another embodiment, the sprinkler head may include one or more turbine generators, which are arranged in use to be driven by a mains flow, a first output flow, and / or a second output flow. The electricity generated by the turbine generators can be utilized, for example, to charge batteries and / or power lighting elements.

[0126] In an exemplary piping system, a digital mixing valve may be provided along with at least two outlet operating valves, each in fluid communication with the digital mixing valve. The digital mixing valve can control the fluid flow to each operating valve, including the temperature and pressure of the fluid flow. A corresponding set of outlets can be in fluid communication with each outlet operating valve, and each outlet operating valve can control the fluid flow to its respective set of outlets. An electronic controller can communicate with the digital mixing valve and the at least two outlet operating valves. The electronic controller can be configured to control the digital mixing valve to adjust the temperature and pressure of the fluid flow based on which of the at least two outlet operating valves is open. This set of outlets can be located in a spray head. Each outlet operating valve can operate independently of any other outlet operating valve.

[0127] In the example method, regarding which of the at least two operating valves is open, the electronic controller communicates with at least two outlet operating valves to allow fluid flow to a set of outlets associated with each respective outlet operating valve. Based on which outlet operating valve is open, the electronic controller instructs a digital mixing valve to adjust the temperature and pressure of the fluid flow supplied to the at least two outlet operating valves. The temperature and pressure of the fluid flow are adjusted via the digital mixing valve according to its instructions. The temperature and pressure-adjusted fluid flow is then supplied from the digital mixing valve to those operating valves that are open among the at least two operating valves.

[0128] Various modifications may be made to the exemplary embodiments described herein without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0129] Except in cases of mutual exclusion, any feature may be used alone or in combination with any other feature, and this disclosure extends to all combinations and sub-combinations of one or more features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A piping system, comprising: A digital mixing valve that provides a main flow with controlled temperature and flow rate; A fluid delivery device located downstream of the digital mixing valve, the fluid delivery device having two or more sets of outlets and an outlet operating valve, each of the two or more sets of outlets including at least two outlets, the outlet operating valve being located upstream of each set of outlets and controlling fluid flow to the set of outlets downstream of it; A communication link, located between the digital mixing valve and the outlet operating valve; The digital mixing valve is configured to adjust the temperature and flow rate of the main flow based on which set of outlets or combinations of outlets are operating at a given time, and the digital mixing valve is configured to perform at least one of the following: The digital mixing valve adjusts the temperature of the mainstream based on the mainstream flow rate; and The digital mixing valve adjusts the flow rate of the mainstream based on the temperature of the mainstream.

2. The piping system according to claim 1, wherein the fluid delivery device includes a spray head.

3. The piping system according to claim 1, wherein the digital mixing valve is an instantaneous water heater.

4. The piping system of claim 1, wherein the fluid transport device comprises up to 20 outlets.

5. The piping system of claim 1, wherein one or more of the plurality of outlets are disposed within the fluid transport equipment.

6. The piping system of claim 1, wherein each of the outlet operating valves can operate independently of any other outlet operating valve.

7. The piping system of claim 1, wherein one or more of the outlet operating valves comprise solenoid valves.

8. The piping system of claim 1, further comprising an electronic controller operably connected to the digital mixing valve and the outlet operating valve.

9. The piping system of claim 8, further comprising a user input mechanism that allows a user to input one or more commands to the electronic controller.

10. The piping system of claim 8, further comprising one or more lighting elements that emit light during use.

11. The piping system of claim 10, wherein the fluid delivery device includes one or more lighting elements that emit light during use.

12. The piping system of claim 10, wherein one or more of the lighting elements are operatively connected to the electronic controller.

13. The piping system of claim 10, wherein the electronic controller controls the operation of one or more of the lighting elements in conjunction with the operation of the plurality of outlets.

14. The piping system of claim 13, wherein the electronic controller, in use, alters one or more characteristics of the light emitted by one or more of the lighting elements according to which set of outlets or combinations of sets of outlets are operating at any given time.

15. The piping system of claim 13, wherein the electronic controller, in use, alters one or more characteristics of the light emitted by one or more of the lighting elements according to the temperature of the fluid flow, such as the temperature of the main flow.

16. The piping system of claim 1, further comprising one or more turbine generators, the turbine generators being driven by fluid flow during use.

17. A piping system, comprising: A digital mixing valve that provides a main flow with controlled temperature and flow rate; At least two outlet operating valves, wherein each outlet operating valve is in fluid communication with the digital mixing valve, the digital mixing valve controlling the fluid flow branching off from the main flow to each outlet operating valve, including the temperature and pressure of the fluid flow; A corresponding set of outlets is in fluid communication with each of the said outlet operating valves, wherein each outlet operating valve controls the fluid flow to its corresponding set of outlets; An electronic controller, communicating with the digital mixing valve and the at least two outlet operating valves, is configured to control the digital mixing valve to adjust the temperature and pressure of the fluid flow based on which of the at least two outlet operating valves is open, the digital mixing valve being configured to perform at least one of the following: The digital mixing valve adjusts the temperature of the mainstream based on the mainstream flow rate; and The digital mixing valve adjusts the flow rate of the mainstream based on the temperature of the mainstream.

18. The piping system of claim 17, wherein the plurality of outlets are disposed in the spray heads.

19. The piping system of claim 17, wherein each outlet operating valve can operate independently of any other outlet operating valve.

20. A control method for a piping system, comprising: The piping system is equipped with a digital mixing valve that provides a main flow with controlled temperature and velocity. Communication is established between the electronic controller of the piping system and at least two outlet operating valves to determine which of the at least two outlet operating valves is open to allow fluid flow branching off from the main flow to the set of outlets associated with each outlet operating valve. The electronic controller instructs the digital mixing valve to adjust the temperature and pressure of the fluid flow supplied to the at least two outlet operating valves based on which outlet operating valve is open; According to the instructions of the digital mixing valve, the temperature and pressure of the fluid flow are adjusted through the digital mixing valve; The fluid flow, adjusted for temperature and pressure, is supplied from the digital mixing valve to those valves that are open among the at least two operating valves. The digital mixing valve is configured to perform at least one of the following: The digital mixing valve adjusts the temperature of the mainstream based on the mainstream flow rate; and The digital mixing valve adjusts the flow rate of the mainstream based on the temperature of the mainstream.

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