Constant-temperature pressure balance valve

Abstract

A thermostatic pressure balance valve assembly, the thermostatic pressure balance valve assembly including a manifold; a thermostatic valve; the system includes a manifold including a hot water inlet configured to receive hot water from a hot water source, a cold water inlet configured to receive cold water from a cold water source, a central chamber, and a pressure balancing chamber, a thermostatic valve positioned in the central chamber of the manifold, and the pressure balancing device is positioned in the pressure balancing cavity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to a thermostatic valve with a pressure balancing device, and in particular to a valve for a shower assembly. Background Art

[0002] The thermostatic shower valve can be set to a desired water temperature, such as about 105°F, by rotating the associated handle to a specific position. The thermostatic valve has a handle for water temperature control. The thermostatic valve can be associated with a separate diverter valve to control on / off. Once set, there is no need to manipulate the water temperature handle each time. The thermostatic valve provides direct control of the water output temperature. The hot water heater can be set to a high temperature to prevent bacterial growth, and for safety reasons, the thermostatic valve can be set to have a lower maximum output temperature, such as not exceeding, for example, about 110°F. The thermostatic valve can contain a wax element that is configured to react to temperature changes and continuously balance the hot / cold water ratio.

[0003] A pressure balance valve (PBV) is able to maintain shower water temperature if the hot or cold water pressure fluctuates due to the simultaneous operation of another water fixture connected to the water line. For example, flushing a toilet may cause a drop in cold water pressure, which may otherwise result in scalding water during a shower. The pressure balance valve is configured to adjust the hot / cold water pressure ratio to maintain the desired water temperature. Sudden changes in water pressure may reduce the flow of water from the shower head, but the temperature will remain approximately the same. The pressure balance valve includes a device configured to maintain a pressure balance of hot and cold water, such as a sliding disc on a piston or a valve core. The pressure balance valve has a handle that controls the water temperature and on / off. With the handle turned all the way, the water delivered from the pressure balance valve can be as hot as the water in the water heater.

[0004] A shower valve having the advantages of both a thermostatic valve and a pressure balancing valve is desired. Summary of the invention

[0005] Therefore, a thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly is disclosed, which includes a manifold; a thermostatic valve; and a pressure balancing device, wherein the manifold includes a hot water inlet, the hot water inlet is configured to receive hot water from a hot water source, a cold water inlet, the cold water inlet is configured to receive cold water from a cold water source, a central chamber, and a pressure balancing chamber, the thermostatic valve is positioned in the manifold central chamber, and the pressure balancing device is positioned in the pressure balancing chamber.

[0006] Also disclosed is a manifold for a thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly, wherein the manifold includes a hot water inlet configured to receive hot water from a hot water source, a cold water inlet configured to receive cold water from a cold water source, a central chamber, and a pressure balancing chamber, wherein the central chamber is configured to accommodate a thermostatic valve and the pressure balancing chamber is configured to have a pressure balancing device positioned therein.

[0007] A thermostatic pressure balanced rough-in valve assembly is also disclosed, the thermostatic pressure balanced rough-in valve assembly comprising the rough-in valve and the thermostatic pressure balanced valve assembly described herein, wherein the rough-in valve comprises a central chamber, a hot water inlet, a cold water inlet and an outlet, the thermostatic pressure balanced valve assembly is positioned in the rough-in valve central chamber, the rough-in valve hot water inlet is aligned with and fluidically connected to the manifold hot water inlet, the rough-in valve cold water inlet is aligned with and fluidically connected to the manifold cold water inlet, and the rough-in valve outlet is fluidically connected to the manifold outlet.

[0008] A shower valve assembly is also disclosed, which includes a diverter valve assembly and a thermostatic pressure balanced roughing valve assembly as described herein, wherein the diverter valve assembly includes a diverter valve positioned in the diverter roughing valve, the diverter valve assembly includes an inlet and two or more outlets, and the thermostatic pressure balanced roughing valve assembly outlet is connected to the diverter valve assembly inlet.

[0009] The thermostatic pressure-balancing valve assembly of the present invention can provide significant water, energy and time savings during the "warm-up" period of a shower. The thermostatic pressure-balancing valve assembly of the present invention can also provide significant energy and water savings for a complete shower. The thermostatic pressure-balancing valve assembly of the present invention can also provide improved scalding protection and enhanced temperature control. In the case of some shower valves, water temperature fluctuations may increase at lower flow rates. The thermostatic pressure-balancing valve assembly of the present disclosure can provide improved scalding protection at lower flow rates. In some embodiments, the thermostatic pressure-balancing valve assembly of the present invention can provide approximately 20% water savings per shower, approximately 10% energy savings per shower, a reduction in warm-up time of approximately 2 / 3, and can provide up to approximately 3 times better scalding protection compared to conventional pressure-balancing valves (PBVs). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The present disclosure is illustrated in the accompanying drawings by way of example and not limitation. For simplicity and clarity of illustration, the features illustrated in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some features may be exaggerated relative to other features for clarity. Further, where deemed appropriate, reference numerals have been repeated in the drawings to indicate corresponding or similar elements.

[0011] Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C A diagram of a valve manifold according to some embodiments is provided.

[0012] Figure 1D and Figure 1E A cross-sectional view of a valve manifold is shown according to some embodiments.

[0013] Figure 1F and Figure 1G An illustration of a thermostatic pressure balancing valve positioned in a valve manifold is provided, according to some embodiments.

[0014] Figure 1H and Fig. 1I A cross-sectional view of a thermostatic pressure balancing valve / manifold assembly is shown according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 1J , Figure 1K and Figure 1L A view of a roughing assembly including a thermostatic pressure balancing valve / manifold assembly positioned in a roughing valve is provided according to some embodiments.

[0016] Figure 1M A cross-sectional view of a thermostatic pressure balanced roughing valve assembly including a thermostatic pressure balanced valve / manifold assembly positioned in a roughing valve is shown according to an embodiment.

[0017] Figure 1N A view of a shower valve assembly according to one embodiment is provided.

[0018] Figure 2A and Figure 2B Shown is a view of a valve manifold according to some embodiments.

[0019] Figure 2C and Figure 2D A cross-sectional view of a valve manifold according to some embodiments is provided.

[0020] Figure 2E and Figure 2F A diagram is shown of a thermostatic pressure balancing valve positioned in a valve manifold, according to some embodiments.

[0021] Figure 2G and Figure 2H A cross-sectional view of a roughing assembly including a thermostatic pressure balancing valve / manifold assembly positioned in a roughing valve is shown, according to some embodiments.

[0022] Fig.2I A view of a roughing assembly including a thermostatic pressure balancing valve / manifold assembly positioned in a roughing valve is provided according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Figure 1A and Figure 1B An opposing side view of a valve manifold 100 is shown, according to some embodiments. Figure 1C A top view of a manifold 100 is provided. The manifold 100 includes a central chamber 101 having a central axis and configured to accommodate a thermostatic valve. The manifold chamber 101 extends from the proximal end of the manifold 100 toward the distal end of the manifold. The manifold 100 includes an inlet 102 configured to receive hot water from a hot water source, and an inlet 103 configured to receive cold water from a cold water source. The inlets 102 and 103 are configured to transfer hot source water and cold source water to a pressure balance chamber 104 configured to accommodate a pressure balance device. The balance chamber 104 includes a central axis perpendicular to the axis of the chamber 101. The inlets 102 and 103 are positioned near the distal end of the manifold 100, and the balance chamber 104 is positioned adjacent to the inlets 102 and 103 and closer to the proximal end of the manifold 100 than the inlets 102 and 103. Inlets 102 and 103 include central axes that are perpendicular to the central axis of balancing chamber 104. Manifold 100 includes a channel 105 configured to direct hot water from balancing chamber 104 to a middle section of the thermostatic valve, and a channel 106 configured to direct cold water from balancing chamber 104 to an upper section of the thermostatic valve. Manifold 100 includes an upper threaded surface 107 positioned at a proximal end of manifold 100 and configured to couple to a threaded surface of a valve cover nut to secure the thermostatic valve in chamber 101. Manifold 100 includes a central channel 108 configured to deliver mixed water from the thermostatic valve to manifold outlet 109 ( Figure 1D and Figure 1E ).

[0024] Figure 1D and Figure 1E A cross-sectional view of a valve manifold 100 is provided according to some embodiments. Figure 1D Provided Figure 1C A horizontal cross-sectional view of Figure 1E Provided Figure 1C 104. A vertical cross-sectional view of the chamber 101. Channel 105 includes an outlet point 105e configured to deliver hot water from the balancing chamber 104 to a thermostatic valve positioned in chamber 101, and channel 106 includes an outlet point 106e configured to deliver cold water from the balancing chamber 104 to the thermostatic valve. Manifold 100 includes an outlet 109 configured to deliver hot / cold mixed water from the thermostatic valve to an outlet of a roughing valve. Inlets 102 and 103 are associated with a hot water inlet chamber 102c and a cold water inlet chamber 103c. Chambers 102c and 103c are blind chambers and are perpendicular to and in fluid communication with the balancing chamber 104. The term "blind" means that one chamber cannot be directly seen through another, or that the central axis of each chamber cannot pass directly through one chamber from another.

[0025] Figure 1F and Figure 1G A view of a thermostatic pressure balancing valve (TPBV) / manifold assembly 125 is provided according to an embodiment. The thermostatic pressure balancing valve / manifold assembly 125 includes a thermostatic valve 126 positioned in chamber 101 of manifold 100. Valve cover nuts 127 are threaded onto manifold 100 to secure thermostatic valve 126 in manifold chamber 101. End caps 128 are positioned in both ends of balancing chamber 104 and are configured to hold a ceramic valve core (not visible) in place and seal chamber 104.

[0026] Figure 1H and Fig. 1I A cross-sectional view of a thermostatic pressure balancing valve / manifold assembly 125 is shown according to an embodiment. The thermostatic valve 126 is positioned in the central chamber 101 of the manifold 100. Check valves 129 are positioned in the water inlet chambers 102c and 103c and are configured to prevent cross flow between the hot water supply line and the cold water supply line. A ceramic valve cartridge 130 positioned in the balancing chamber 104 can also be seen.

[0027] Figure 1J , Figure 1K and Figure 1L A view of a roughing valve assembly 135 is provided that includes a thermostatic pressure balancing valve / manifold assembly 125 positioned in a roughing valve 136. The assembly 125 is secured in the chamber of the roughing valve 136 with a threaded cap 141. The roughing assembly 135 includes a service stop 140, an inlet 137 for receiving hot source water, an inlet 138 for receiving cold source water, and an outlet 139. The inlet 137 is aligned with the manifold inlet 102, and the inlet 138 is aligned with the manifold inlet 103.

[0028] Figure 1M A cross-sectional view of a thermostatic pressure balanced roughing valve assembly 135 including a thermostatic pressure balanced valve / manifold assembly 125 positioned in a roughing valve 136 is shown according to an embodiment. The thermostatic pressure balanced valve / manifold assembly 125 is shown with the thermostatic valve 126 positioned in the manifold 100. The manifold outlet 109 is in fluid communication with the roughing valve outlet 139 and is configured to discharge mixed water therethrough.

[0029] Figure 1NShower valve assembly 145 is shown including thermostatic pressure balanced roughing valve assembly 135 coupled to diverter valve assembly 146 according to one embodiment. Thermostatic pressure balanced roughing assembly outlet 139 is coupled to diverter valve assembly inlet 152. Diverter valve assembly 146 includes diverter valve 147 positioned in diverter roughing valve 151. Assembly 145 will have a handle coupled to each of thermostatic valve 126 and diverter valve 147 in use. The handle associated with thermostatic valve 126 will be configured to control temperature, and the handle associated with diverter valve 147 will be configured to provide on / off and diverting functions. Diverter valve assembly 146 includes outlets 148, 149, and 150 configured to deliver mixed water to, for example, a shower head, a hand shower, and a bathtub spout.

[0030] Figure 2A and Figure 2B A 90 degree rotated view of a valve manifold 200 according to some embodiments is shown. Manifold 200 includes a central chamber 201 having a central axis and configured to accommodate a thermostatic valve. Manifold 200 includes an inlet 202 configured to receive hot water from a hot water source, and an inlet 203 configured to receive cold water from a cold water source. Inlets 202 and 203 are configured to transfer hot source water and cold source water to a pressure balance chamber 204 configured to accommodate a pressure balance device. Balance chamber 204 (not visible) is positioned behind end caps 228. End caps 228 are positioned in both ends of balance chamber 204 and are configured to hold a ceramic valve core (not visible) in place and seal chamber 204. Balance chamber 204 includes a central axis perpendicular to the central axis of chamber 201. Inlets 202 and 203 include central axes perpendicular to the central axis of balance chamber 204. Manifold 200 includes an upper threaded surface 207 positioned at a proximal end of the manifold and configured to couple to a threaded surface of a bonnet nut to secure the thermostatic valve in chamber 201. Inlets 202 and 203 are associated with grooves 211 configured to receive an O-ring 212. Manifold 200 includes a circumferential groove 213 configured to receive a large O-ring 214. Manifold 200 includes a circumferential groove 215 configured to receive a circumferential cold water filter 216. Cold water filter 216 is configured to filter cold source water before it enters the thermostatic valve.

[0031] Figure 2C and Figure 2DA cross-sectional view of a valve manifold 200 rotated 90 degrees is provided according to some embodiments. Channel 205 is configured to deliver hot water from a balancing chamber 204 to a thermostatic valve positioned in chamber 201, and channel 206 is configured to deliver cold water from the balancing chamber 204 to the thermostatic valve. The cold water is configured to pass through a filter screen 216 before entering the thermostatic valve, and the hot water is configured to pass through a filter basket 217 before entering the thermostatic valve. Filtering the water 126 before entering the thermostatic valve protects the valve. Manifold 200 includes an outlet 209 configured to deliver hot / cold mixed water from the thermostatic valve to an outlet of a roughing valve. Inlets 202 and 203 are associated with a hot water inlet chamber 202c and a cold water inlet chamber 203c. Chambers 202c and 203c are blind chambers and are perpendicular to and in fluid communication with the balancing chamber 204. Check valves 129 are positioned in the water inlet chambers 202c and 203c and are configured to prevent cross flow between the hot water source line and the cold water source line.

[0032] Figure 2E and Figure 2F A view of a thermostatic pressure balancing valve / manifold assembly 225 is provided according to an embodiment. The thermostatic pressure balancing valve / manifold assembly 225 includes a thermostatic valve 126 positioned in a chamber 201 of a manifold 200. A valve cover nut 227 is threaded into the manifold 200 to secure the thermostatic valve 126 in the manifold chamber 201. The balancing chamber 204 (not visible) is configured to receive an end cap 228 to hold a ceramic valve core (not visible) in place and seal the balancing chamber 204.

[0033] Figure 2G and Figure 2H A cross-sectional view of a roughing assembly 235 including a thermostatic pressure balancing valve / manifold assembly 225 positioned in a roughing valve 136 is provided according to an embodiment. Visible are end caps 228 positioned in both ends of the balancing chamber 204 and configured to hold a ceramic valve core (not visible) in place and seal the chamber 204. Visible are chambers 202c, which are associated with the roughing valve hot water inlet 137, and chambers 203c, which are associated with the roughing valve cold water inlet 138. Chambers 202c and 203c are in flow communication with the balancing chamber 204 and include a check valve 129, which is configured to prevent cross flow between the hot water source line and the cold water source line. A service stop 240 and a mixed water outlet 139 are also shown.

[0034] Fig.2IA roughing assembly 235 is shown according to an embodiment. The roughing valve 136 includes a thermostatic pressure balancing valve / manifold assembly 225 positioned in a central chamber thereof. The assembly 225 is secured in the central chamber of the roughing valve 136 with a threaded cap 141. The assembly 235 includes a service stop 240. The assembly 235 includes an inlet 137 configured to receive hot water from a hot water source, an inlet 138 configured to receive cold water from a cold water source, and an outlet 139 configured to receive hot / cold mixed water from the thermostatic valve 126 and ultimately deliver the mixed water to, for example, a shower head, a hand shower, or a bathtub spout. The following are the reference numerals.

[0035] 100, 200 manifold 215 is used to accommodate the manifold groove of the filter screen

[0036] 101, 201 manifold chamber 216 cold water filter

[0037] 102, 202 Manifold hot water inlet 217 Hot water filter basket

[0038] 102c, 202c manifold hot water inlet chamber 125, 225 TPBV / manifold assembly

[0039] 103, 203 manifold cold water inlet 126 thermostatic valve

[0040] 103c, 203c manifold cold water inlet cavity 127, 227 valve cover nut

[0041] 104, 204 pressure balance chamber 128, 228 balance chamber end cover

[0042] 105, 205 manifold hot water channel 129 check valve

[0043] 105e manifold hot water channel outlet point 130 ceramic valve core

[0044] 106, 206 manifold cold water channel 135, 235 roughing valve assembly

[0045] 106e manifold cold water channel outlet point 136 roughing valve

[0046] 107, 207 Manifold upper threaded surface 137 Rough pump valve hot water inlet

[0047] 108 Manifold center channel 138 Rough pump valve cold water inlet

[0048] 109, 209 manifold outlet 139 rough pumping valve mixed water outlet

[0049] 211 Manifold inlet groove for receiving O-ring 140, 240 Service stop

[0050] 212 O-ring 141 threaded cap

[0051] 213 groove around manifold body 145 shower valve assembly

[0052] 214 Large O-ring

[0053] In some embodiments, the thermostatic pressure balancing assembly of the present disclosure includes a manifold, a thermostatic valve, and a pressure balancing device. The manifold may include a hot water inlet configured to be connected to a hot water source line and receive hot water from the hot water source line, and a cold water inlet configured to be connected to a cold water source line and receive cold water from the cold water source line. The manifold may include a central chamber configured to accommodate and be connected to the thermostatic valve. The manifold may include a pressure balancing chamber configured to have a pressure balancing device positioned therein. The pressure balancing device may include a ceramic valve core.

[0054] The manifold includes a proximal end and a distal end. The manifold central chamber extends from the manifold proximal end toward the manifold distal end. The manifold proximal end may be configured to be coupled to a valve cover nut. The valve cover nut may be configured to secure the thermostatic valve in the manifold central chamber.

[0055] In some embodiments, the manifold hot water inlet and cold water inlet may be positioned at opposite sides, 180 degrees apart. In some embodiments, the pressure balance chamber may include open ends positioned at opposite sides of the manifold, 180 degrees apart. In some embodiments, the pressure balance chamber may include a central axis perpendicular to the central axes of the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet. In some embodiments, the manifold center chamber may include a central axis perpendicular to the central axis of the pressure balance chamber and the central axes of both the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet.

[0056] The manifold hot water inlet and the manifold cold water inlet can be positioned at or near the manifold distal end. The pressure balance chamber can be positioned adjacent to the manifold hot water inlet and the cold water inlet, and closer to the manifold proximal end than the inlet. The manifold hot water inlet and the cold water inlet are associated with the hot water chamber and the cold water chamber, respectively. The hot water chamber and the cold water chamber are in flow communication with the pressure balance chamber, and are configured to deliver the hot source water and the cold source water to the pressure balance chamber. In some embodiments, the hot water chamber and the cold water chamber are "blind", which means that people cannot see through from the hot water inlet to the cold water inlet. In some embodiments, the hot water chamber and the cold water chamber include a check valve, which is configured to prevent cross flow between the hot water source pipeline and the cold water source pipeline.

[0057] In some embodiments, the open end of the pressure balance chamber can be equipped with an end cap configured to seal the pressure balance chamber and hold the pressure balance device in place. In some embodiments, the open end of the pressure balance chamber can be equipped with an end cap at one end and a filter cup at the other end to seal the chamber and hold the pressure balance device in place.

[0058] In some embodiments, the manifold, bonnet nut, and end cap may comprise molded thermoplastics. In some embodiments, the molded thermoplastics may comprise injection molded thermoplastics. In some embodiments, the thermoplastics may comprise engineered thermoplastics. Engineered thermoplastics include, for example, polyamides, polyesters, polycarbonates, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, and polyacetals. Polyamides include nylon and polyphthalamide (PPA). Polyacetals include polyoxymethylene (POM).

[0059] The manifold may include a channel configured to deliver hot water from the balancing chamber to the thermostatic valve, and a channel configured to deliver cold water from the balancing chamber to the thermostatic valve. In some embodiments, the manifold hot water channel is configured to deliver hot water to a middle section of the thermostatic valve, and the manifold cold water channel is configured to deliver cold water to an upper section of the thermostatic valve.

[0060] The manifold may include a central passage in fluid communication with the thermostatic valve and configured to deliver mixed hot / cold water from the thermostatic valve to the manifold outlet.

[0061] The thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly can be configured such that the hot water chamber and the cold water chamber are configured to deliver hot source water and cold source water to the pressure balancing chamber, the pressure balancing device in the pressure balancing chamber is configured to pressure balance the hot water and the cold water, the pressure balancing chamber is configured to deliver the pressure-balanced hot / cold water to the thermostatic valve, the thermostatic valve is configured to mix the pressure-balanced hot / cold source water to a set desired temperature, and the thermostatic valve is configured to deliver the mixed water through the manifold to the manifold outlet.

[0062] The thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly may be configured to be disposed in a central chamber of a roughing valve. The roughing valve may have a hot water inlet configured to align with and flow communicate with a manifold hot water inlet, and a cold water inlet configured to align with and flow communicate with a manifold cold water inlet. The roughing valve may have an outlet in flow communication with a manifold outlet.

[0063] The shower valve assembly may include a thermostatic pressure-balanced roughing valve assembly coupled to a diverter valve assembly. The diverter valve assembly may include a diverter valve positioned in the diverter roughing valve. The diverter valve assembly may include an inlet and two or more outlets. The outlet of the roughing valve thermostatic pressure-balanced valve assembly may be configured to be coupled to the inlet of the diverter valve assembly. The outlet of the diverter valve assembly may be configured to direct / divert water flow to, for example, a shower head, a manual shower, and a bathtub spout. The diverter valve and the thermostatic valve are each configured to be coupled to a handle and manipulated with the handle during use. The handle associated with the thermostatic valve will be configured to control the temperature, and the handle associated with the diverter valve will be configured to provide on / off and divert functions.

[0064] The following are some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0065] In a first embodiment, a thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly is disclosed, the thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly comprising a manifold; a thermostatic valve; and a pressure balancing device, wherein the manifold comprises a hot water inlet, the hot water inlet being configured to receive hot water from a hot water source, a cold water inlet being configured to receive cold water from a cold water source, a central chamber, and a pressure balancing chamber, the thermostatic valve being positioned in the manifold central chamber, and the pressure balancing device being positioned in the pressure balancing chamber.

[0066] In a second embodiment, a thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly is disclosed according to the first embodiment, wherein the manifold chamber includes a central axis, the pressure balancing chamber includes a central axis, and the manifold chamber central axis and the pressure balancing chamber central axis are perpendicular.

[0067] In a third embodiment, a thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly according to embodiment 1 or 2 is disclosed, wherein the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet each include a central axis, and the hot water inlet central axis and the cold water inlet central axis are perpendicular to the manifold chamber central axis and the pressure balancing chamber central axis.

[0068] In a fourth embodiment, a thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly according to any one of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the manifold includes a proximal end and a distal end, the manifold central chamber extends from the proximal end toward the distal end, the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet are positioned toward the distal end, and the pressure balancing chamber is positioned adjacent to the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet and closer to the proximal end of the manifold than the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet.

[0069] In a fifth embodiment, a thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the pressure balancing device includes a ceramic valve cartridge.

[0070] In a sixth embodiment, a thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the proximal end of the manifold includes a threaded surface, the manifold threaded surface is threadably coupled to a bonnet nut, and the bonnet nut is configured to secure the thermostatic valve in the manifold center chamber.

[0071] In a seventh embodiment, a thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the pressure balancing chamber includes opposing open ends, an end cap is positioned in each pressure balancing chamber open end, or an end cap is positioned in one open end and a filter cup is positioned in the other open end, and the end cap and the filter cup are configured to seal the pressure balancing chamber and hold the pressure balancing device in place.

[0072] In an eighth embodiment, a thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly according to any one of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet are positioned at opposite sides of the manifold, the hot water inlet is associated with a hot water chamber, and the cold water inlet is associated with a cold water chamber, the hot water chamber and the cold water chamber are in fluid communication with the pressure balancing chamber, and the hot water chamber and the cold water chamber are blind chambers.

[0073] In a ninth embodiment, a thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly according to any one of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the hot water inlet is associated with a hot water chamber, and the cold water inlet is associated with a cold water chamber, and the hot water chamber and the cold water chamber each include a check valve, and the check valves are configured to prevent cross flow between the hot water source pipeline and the cold water source pipeline.

[0074] In a tenth embodiment, a thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly is disclosed according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the manifold, the bonnet nut, and the end cap comprise molded thermoplastic.

[0075] In an eleventh embodiment, a thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly according to any one of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the manifold includes a hot water channel and a cold water channel, the hot water channel is configured to deliver hot water from the balancing chamber to the thermostatic valve, and the cold water channel is configured to deliver cold water from the balancing chamber to the thermostatic valve.

[0076] In a twelfth embodiment, a thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly is disclosed according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the manifold includes a central channel configured to deliver hot / cold mixing water from the thermostatic valve to a manifold outlet.

[0077] In a thirteenth embodiment, a thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly according to any one of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the hot water chamber and the cold water chamber are configured to deliver hot source water and cold source water to the pressure balancing chamber, the pressure balancing device is configured to balance the pressures of the hot water and the cold water, the pressure balancing chamber is configured to deliver the pressure-balanced hot source water and cold source water to the thermostatic valve, the thermostatic valve is configured to mix the pressure-balanced hot source water and cold source water to a set temperature, and the thermostatic valve is configured to deliver the mixed water to a manifold outlet.

[0078] In a fourteenth embodiment, a thermostatic pressure-balanced roughing valve assembly is disclosed, the thermostatic pressure-balanced roughing valve assembly comprising a roughing valve and a thermostatic pressure-balanced valve assembly according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the roughing valve comprises a central chamber, a hot water inlet, a cold water inlet and an outlet, the thermostatic pressure-balanced valve assembly is positioned in the central chamber of the roughing valve, the hot water inlet of the roughing valve is aligned with and fluidically connected to the hot water inlet of the manifold, the cold water inlet of the roughing valve is aligned with and fluidically connected to the cold water inlet of the manifold, and the roughing valve outlet is fluidically connected to the manifold outlet.

[0079] In a fifteenth embodiment, a shower valve assembly is disclosed, which includes a diverter valve assembly and a constant temperature pressure balanced roughing valve assembly according to embodiment 14, wherein the diverter valve assembly includes a diverter valve positioned in the diverter roughing valve, the diverter valve assembly includes an inlet and two or more outlets, and the constant temperature pressure balanced roughing valve assembly outlet is connected to the diverter valve assembly inlet.

[0080] In a sixteenth embodiment, a manifold for a thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly is also disclosed, wherein the manifold includes a hot water inlet, the hot water inlet is configured to receive hot water from a hot water source, a cold water inlet, the cold water inlet is configured to receive cold water from a cold water source, a central chamber, and a pressure balancing chamber, the central chamber is configured to accommodate a thermostatic valve, and the pressure balancing chamber is configured to have a pressure balancing device positioned therein.

[0081] In a seventeenth embodiment, a manifold according to embodiment 16 is disclosed, wherein the manifold chamber includes a central axis, the pressure balance chamber includes a central axis, and the manifold chamber central axis and the pressure balance chamber central axis are perpendicular.

[0082] In an eighteenth embodiment, a manifold according to embodiment 16 or 17 is disclosed, wherein the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet each include a central axis, and the hot water inlet central axis and the cold water inlet central axis are perpendicular to the manifold chamber central axis and the pressure balance chamber central axis.

[0083] In a nineteenth embodiment, a manifold according to any one of embodiments 16 to 18 is disclosed, wherein the manifold includes a proximal end and a distal end, the manifold central chamber extends from the proximal end toward the distal end, the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet are positioned toward the distal end, and the pressure balance chamber is positioned adjacent to the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet and closer to the proximal end of the manifold than the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet.

[0084] In a twentieth embodiment, a manifold according to any one of embodiments 16 to 19 is disclosed, wherein the proximal end of the manifold includes a threaded surface, the manifold threaded surface is configured to be threadably connected to a valve cover nut, and the valve cover nut is configured to secure the thermostatic valve in the manifold center chamber.

[0085] In a twenty-first embodiment, a manifold according to any one of embodiments 16 to 20 is disclosed, wherein the pressure balance chamber includes opposing open ends, each opposing open end is configured to receive and connect to an end cap, or one open end is configured to receive an end cap and the other open end is configured to receive a filter cup, and the end cap and the filter cup are configured to seal the pressure balance chamber and hold the pressure balance device in place.

[0086] In a twenty-second embodiment, a manifold according to any one of embodiments 16 to 21 is disclosed, wherein the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet are positioned at opposite sides of the manifold, the hot water inlet is associated with a hot water chamber, and the cold water inlet is associated with a cold water chamber, the hot water chamber and the cold water chamber are fluidly connected to the pressure balance chamber, and the hot water chamber and the cold water chamber are blind chambers.

[0087] In a twenty-third embodiment, a manifold according to any one of embodiments 16 to 22 is disclosed, wherein the hot water inlet is associated with the hot water chamber, and the cold water inlet is associated with the cold water chamber, and the hot water chamber and the cold water chamber are each configured to accommodate a check valve, and the check valves are configured to prevent cross flow between the hot water source pipeline and the cold water source pipeline.

[0088] In a twenty-fourth embodiment, a manifold according to any one of embodiments 16 to 23 is disclosed, wherein the manifold, the bonnet nut, and the end cap comprise molded thermoplastic.

[0089] In a twenty-fifth embodiment, a manifold according to any one of embodiments 16 to 24 is disclosed, comprising a hot water channel and a cold water channel, wherein the hot water channel is configured to deliver hot water from the balancing chamber to the thermostatic valve, and the cold water channel is configured to deliver cold water from the balancing chamber to the thermostatic valve.

[0090] In a twenty-sixth embodiment, a manifold according to any one of embodiments 16 to 25 is disclosed, comprising a central channel configured to deliver hot / cold mixed water from the thermostatic valve to the manifold outlet.

[0091] In a twenty-seventh embodiment, a manifold according to any one of embodiments 16 to 26 is disclosed, wherein the hot water chamber and the cold water chamber are configured to deliver hot source water and cold source water to the pressure balancing chamber, the pressure balancing device is configured to balance the pressures of the hot water and the cold water, the pressure balancing chamber is configured to deliver the pressure-balanced hot source water and cold source water to the thermostatic valve, the thermostatic valve is configured to mix the pressure-balanced hot source water and cold source water to a set temperature, and the thermostatic valve is configured to deliver the mixed water to a manifold outlet.

[0092] In a twenty-eighth embodiment, a pressure balancing valve assembly, a manifold, or a thermostatic pressure balancing roughing valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, comprising a filter screen having an annular shape, positioned around the manifold, and configured to filter the cold source water before the cold source water enters the thermostatic valve. The annular filter screen may be positioned in the cold water channel.

[0093] In a twenty-ninth embodiment, a pressure balanced valve assembly, a manifold, or a thermostatic pressure balanced roughing valve assembly according to embodiment 28 is disclosed, wherein the manifold includes a circumferential groove configured to receive an annular filter screen.

[0094] In a thirtieth embodiment, a pressure balancing valve assembly, a manifold, or a thermostatic pressure balancing roughing valve assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments is disclosed, wherein the manifold comprises a filter basket positioned in the hot water passage and configured to filter the heat source water before the heat source water enters the thermostatic valve. The filter basket may comprise a curved partial annular shape configured to be received by the manifold.

[0095] The term "flow communication" or "fluid communication" means, for example, configured for liquid or gas to flow therethrough and may be synonymous with "fluid coupling." The terms "upstream" and "downstream" indicate the direction of gas or fluid flow, i.e., the gas or fluid will flow from upstream to downstream.

[0096] Likewise, “electrically communicate” may mean “electrically coupled.” Electrical communication may be via a wired connection or may be wireless.

[0097] The term "coupled" or "connected" may mean that one element is "attached to" or "associated with" another element. Coupled or connected may mean directly coupled or coupled through one or more other elements. An element may be coupled to an element through two or more other elements in a sequential or non-sequential manner. The term "via" referring to "via an element" may mean "through" or "through" an element. Coupled or connected or "associated with..." may also mean that elements are not directly or indirectly attached, but that the elements are "linked together" in that one element may function with another element.

[0098] The term "towards" referring to an attachment point may mean exactly at that location or point, or alternatively may mean closer to that point than to another different point, for example "towards the center" means closer to the center than to an edge.

[0099] The term "similar" means similar and not necessarily exactly similar. For example, "annular" means generally shaped like a ring, but not necessarily a perfect circle.

[0100] The articles "a" and "an" refer to one or more than one (e.g., at least one) grammatical object in this article. Any range cited herein is included. The term "about" used throughout the text is used to describe and explain small fluctuations. For example, "about" can mean that a numerical value can be modified by ± 0.05%, ± 0.1%, ± 0.2%, ± 0.3%, ± 0.4%, ± 0.5%, ± 1%, ± 2%, ± 3%, ± 4%, ± 5%, ± 6%, ± 7%, ± 8%, ± 9%, ± 10% or more. Whether or not it is explicitly stated, all numerical values ​​are modified by the term "about". Numerical values ​​modified by the term "about" include specifically identified values. For example, "about 5.0" includes 5.0.

[0101] The term "substantially" is similar to "about" in that the defined term can vary, for example, by ±0.05%, ±0.1%, ±0.2%, ±0.3%, ±0.4%, ±0.5%, ±1%, ±2%, ±3%, ±4%, ±5%, ±6%, ±7%, ±8%, ±9%, ±10% or more of the definition; for example, the term "substantially perpendicular" can mean a 90° perpendicular angle, can mean "about 90°". The term "approximately" can be equivalent to "substantially".

[0102] Features described in conjunction with one embodiment of the disclosure may be used in conjunction with other embodiments even if not explicitly stated.

[0103] The embodiments of the present disclosure include any and all components and / or parts of the embodiments, claims, specifications and drawings. The embodiments of the present disclosure also include any and all combinations and / or sub-combinations of the embodiments.

[0104] Examples

[0105] The test was conducted with a 50-foot length of pipe from the hot water heater to the shower valve, a cold water inlet temperature of 70℉ (21℃), a hot water inlet temperature of 150℉ (65.5℃), a shower temperature of 100-101℉ (30℃), and a shower time of 7 minutes. The results of the shower preheat phase of the thermostatic pressure balanced valve assembly (TPBV) of the present invention and a conventional pressure balanced valve assembly (PBV) are shown below, where the water temperature is allowed to reach shower temperature. The results of the total shower are also provided. In scenario 1, the conventional PBV valve is set to a temperature position of 100℉. In scenario 2, the conventional PBV is set to full heat and, after reaching 140℉, is turned down to a shower temperature of 100℉. The TPBV is set to shower temperature.

[0106]

[0107]

[0108] It can be seen that in each scenario of how a person adjusts the shower water temperature, the thermostatic pressure balancing valve of the present invention provides significant water and energy savings.

Claims

1. A thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly, comprising Manifold; Thermostatic valves; and Pressure balancing device, in The manifold includes a hot water inlet configured to receive hot water from a hot water source, a cold water inlet configured to receive cold water from a cold water source, a central chamber, and a pressure balance chamber, The thermostatic valve is positioned in the manifold center chamber, and The pressure balance device is positioned in the pressure balance chamber.

2. The thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly according to claim 1, wherein The manifold chamber includes a central axis, The pressure balance chamber includes a central axis, and The central axis of the manifold chamber and the central axis of the pressure balance chamber are perpendicular.

3. The thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly according to claim 1, wherein The hot water inlet and the cold water inlet each include a central axis, and The central axis of the hot water inlet and the central axis of the cold water inlet are perpendicular to the central axis of the manifold chamber and the central axis of the pressure balance chamber.

4. The thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly according to claim 1, wherein The manifold comprises a proximal end and a distal end, The manifold central chamber extends from the proximal end toward the distal end, The hot water inlet and the cold water inlet are positioned toward the distal end, and The pressure balance chamber is positioned adjacent to the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet and closer to the proximal end of the manifold than the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet.

5. The thermostatic pressure-balancing valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the pressure-balancing device comprises a ceramic valve cartridge.

6. The thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly according to claim 1, wherein The proximal end of the manifold includes a threaded surface, The manifold threaded surface is threadably coupled to the bonnet nut, and The bonnet nut is configured to secure the thermostatic valve in the manifold center chamber.

7. The thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly according to claim 1, wherein The pressure balance chamber includes opposing open ends, An end cap is positioned in each pressure balance chamber open end, or an end cap is positioned in one open end and a filter cup is positioned in the other open end, and The end cap and the filter cup are configured to seal the pressure balance chamber and hold the pressure balance device in place.

8. The thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly of claim 1, wherein The hot water inlet and the cold water inlet are positioned at opposite sides of the manifold, The hot water inlet is associated with the hot water chamber, and the cold water inlet is associated with the cold water chamber, The hot water chamber and the cold water chamber are in fluid communication with the pressure balance chamber, and The hot water chamber and the cold water chamber are blind chambers.

9. The thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly of claim 1, wherein The hot water inlet is associated with the hot water chamber, and the cold water inlet is associated with the cold water chamber, and The hot water chamber and the cold water chamber each include a check valve, and The check valve is configured to prevent cross flow between the hot water source line and the cold water source line.

10. The thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the manifold comprises molded thermoplastic.

11. The thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly of claim 1 , wherein the manifold includes a hot water channel and a cold water channel, the hot water channel being configured to deliver hot water from the balancing chamber to the thermostatic valve, the cold water channel being configured to deliver cold water from the balancing chamber to the thermostatic valve.

12. The thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the manifold includes a circumferential groove configured to receive an annular filter screen configured to filter the cold source water before the cold source water enters the thermostatic valve.

13. The thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the manifold includes a curved basket filter positioned in the hot water passage and configured to filter the heat source water before the heat source water enters the thermostatic valve.

14. The thermostatic pressure-balancing valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the manifold includes a central passage configured to deliver hot / cold mixing water from the thermostatic valve to a manifold outlet.

15. The thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly of claim 1, wherein The hot water chamber and the cold water chamber are configured to deliver hot source water and cold source water to the pressure balance chamber. The pressure balancing device is configured to balance the pressure of the hot water and the cold water, The pressure balance chamber is configured to deliver pressure-balanced hot source water and cold source water to the thermostatic valve, The thermostatic valve is configured to mix the pressure-balanced hot source water and cold source water to a set temperature, and The thermostatic valve is configured to deliver the mixed water to a manifold outlet.

16. A thermostatic pressure-balanced rough-in valve assembly, comprising a rough-in valve and the thermostatic pressure-balanced valve assembly according to claim 1, wherein The roughing valve comprises a central chamber, a hot water inlet, a cold water inlet and an outlet, The thermostatic pressure balance valve assembly is positioned in the roughing valve center chamber, The roughing valve hot water inlet is aligned with and in fluid communication with the manifold hot water inlet, The roughing valve cold water inlet is aligned with and in fluid communication with the manifold cold water inlet, and The roughing valve outlet is in fluid communication with the manifold outlet.

17. A shower valve assembly comprising a diverter roughing valve and the thermostatic pressure-balanced roughing valve assembly according to claim 16, wherein The diverter roughing valve is configured to accommodate a diverter valve, The split flow roughing valve comprises an inlet and two or more outlets, and The thermostatic pressure balanced roughing valve assembly outlet is coupled to the diverter roughing valve inlet.

18. A manifold for a thermostatic pressure balancing valve assembly, wherein The manifold includes a hot water inlet configured to receive hot water from a hot water source, a cold water inlet configured to receive cold water from a cold water source, a central chamber, and a pressure balance chamber, The central chamber is configured to house a thermostatic valve, and The pressure balance chamber is configured to have a pressure balance device positioned therein.

19. The manifold of claim 18, wherein the manifold comprises a circumferential groove configured to receive an annular filter screen configured to filter the cold source water before the cold source water enters the thermostatic valve.

20. The manifold of claim 18, wherein The manifold comprises a proximal end and a distal end, The manifold central chamber extends from the proximal end toward the distal end, The hot water inlet and the cold water inlet are positioned toward the distal end, and The pressure balance chamber is positioned adjacent to the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet and closer to the proximal end of the manifold than the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet.

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