Shower control system

Abstract

Systems, methods, and apparatus related to shower systems are described. The shower system includes a water subsystem and a controller in communication with the water subsystem. The water subsystem includes one or more electronic valves configured to control a flow rate and a temperature of water dispensed from one or more shower outlets within the shower enclosure. The controller is configured to record a sequence of user inputs to adjust operation of the water subsystem while operating the water subsystem to dispense water from the one or more shower outlets according to the sequence of user inputs. The controller is configured to display, on the user display device, new shower experience options corresponding to the sequence of user inputs, and operate the water subsystem in accordance with the sequence of user inputs in response to the user-selected new shower experience options.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 618,212, filed on January 5, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to shower enclosures. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to shower control systems. Background Art

[0004] The present disclosure generally relates to shower enclosures. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to shower control systems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] One embodiment of the present application relates to a shower system. The shower system includes a water subsystem and a controller in communication with the water subsystem. The water subsystem includes one or more electronic valves configured to control the flow rate and temperature of water dispensed from one or more shower outlets within a shower enclosure. The controller is configured to record a sequence of user inputs to regulate the operation of the water subsystem and, concurrently, operate the water subsystem according to the sequence of user inputs to dispense water from the one or more shower outlets. The controller is further configured to display new shower experience options corresponding to the sequence of user inputs on a user display device and operate the water subsystem according to the sequence of user inputs in response to a user selecting a new shower experience option corresponding to the sequence of user inputs.

[0006] Another embodiment of the present application relates to a shower system. The shower system includes a water subsystem having one or more electronic valves configured to control the flow rate of water dispensed from a plurality of shower outlets within a shower enclosure. The shower system includes one or more sensors configured to acquire data indicative of the flow rate of water dispensed from the plurality of shower outlets and a controller in communication with the water subsystem and the one or more sensors. The controller is configured to determine a maximum flow rate for each of the plurality of shower outlets based on the flow rate data. The controller is configured to convert a plurality of stored percentage flow rate values for the plurality of shower outlets into a plurality of absolute flow rate values for the plurality of shower outlets by scaling a percentage flow rate value to the maximum flow rate. The controller is further configured to operate the plurality of shower outlets according to the absolute flow rate values when executing a stored shower experience.

[0007] Another embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a shower control system. The shower control system includes: a control panel configured to receive user input regarding adjustments to the operation of one or more components of the shower system; a plurality of sensors configured to measure operation data associated with one or more components of the shower system; and a cloud integration controller communicatively coupled to the plurality of sensors. The cloud integration controller is configured to receive operation data from the plurality of sensors, receive user input from the control panel, and transmit the user input and operation data to a remote computing system via a network. The cloud integration controller is further configured to receive error information from the remote computing system and cause a display of the shower system to present the error information. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 is a front view of a shower stall according to an exemplary embodiment, the shower stall including various output devices (e.g., a shower outlet, a speaker, lighting devices, and a steam / aroma outlet) and a control panel positioned within the shower enclosure to facilitate user control of the various output devices.

[0009] Figure 2 is a block diagram of a shower control system according to an exemplary embodiment, the shower control system including a central controller configured to monitor and control Figure 1 the shower output devices in the shower stall.

[0010] Figure 3 is a block diagram of another shower control system according to an exemplary embodiment, wherein Figure 2 the controller is used to control a plurality of mixing valves, each mixing valve affecting the water dispensed by a different set of water outlets.

[0011] Figure 4 is a block diagram that more particularly shows Figure 2 the controller according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0012] Figure 5 is a flowchart of a cleaning method executable by Figure 2 the controller according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0013] Figure 6 is a flowchart of a method for recording a shower experience executable by Figure 2 the controller according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0014] Figure 7 is a flowchart of a method for synchronizing a water spray pattern, lighting, and audio executable by Figure 2 the controller according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0015] Figure 8 is executable by the controller according to an exemplary embodiment.Figure 2 Flowchart of a method for transmitting telemetry data for error detection and troubleshooting, performed by a controller.

[0016] Figure 9 is a method for maximizing flow rate, executable by a controller according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 Flowchart of a method for maximizing flow rate, executable by a controller.

[0017] Figure 10 Main view of a control panel showing a default main menu according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0018] Figure 11 Main view of a control panel showing shower outlet options according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0019] Figure 12 Main view of a control panel showing a steam room temperature set point according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0020] Figure 13 Main view of a control panel showing a steam room heating countdown timer according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0021] Figure 14 Main view of a control panel showing a steam room heating user interface that shows the current steam room temperature, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0022] Figure 15 Main view of a control panel showing a cleaning control user interface where a user sets a desired outlet water temperature, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0023] Figure 16 Main view of a control panel showing the current water temperature during a cleaning heating process, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0024] Figure 17 Main view of a control panel showing a menu of shower outlet options, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0025] Figure 18 Main view of a control panel showing selected rain shower head shower outlet buttons and deluge buttons, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0026] Figure 19 is according to an exemplary embodiment showing Figure 18 Main view of a control panel where the deluge button blinks to indicate that the water reservoir is being filled.

[0027] Figure 20 is according to an exemplary embodiment showing a selected Figure 18The main view of the control panel of the rain cascade button for gradually emptying the water reservoir in the rain cascade mode.

[0028] Figure 21 The main view of the control panel showing a QR code for initial system setup according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0029] Figure 22 The main view of the control panel showing a URL for initial system setup according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0030] Figure 23 The embedded settings web page displayed on a mobile user device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0031] Figure 24 Is according to an exemplary embodiment and can be generated by Figure 2 The initial setup user interface generated by the controller, showing the preferred unit system option.

[0032] Figure 25 Is according to an exemplary embodiment and can be generated by Figure 2 The initial setup user interface generated by the controller, showing the option for the user to select whether they are in a low water flow area.

[0033] Figure 26 Is according to an exemplary embodiment and can be generated by Figure 2 The initial setup user interface generated by the controller, showing the shower default selection user interface.

[0034] Figure 27 Is the GUI containing the favorite preset shower experience that can be generated by Figure 2 The controller and is displayed on a mobile user device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0035] Figure 28 Is according to an exemplary embodiment and can be generated by Figure 2 The controller-generated Figure 27 GUI of the selected favorite preset.

[0036] Figure 29 Is according to an exemplary embodiment and can be generated by Figure 2 The menu of pre-programmed shower experience options displayed on a mobile user device generated by the controller.

[0037] Figure 30 Is the selected Figure 29 Pre-programmed shower experience displayed on a mobile user device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0038] Figure 31A Is according to an exemplary embodiment and can be generated by Figure 2An optional updated user interface displayed on a mobile user device generated by the controller.

[0039] Figure 31B Is a required updated user interface displayed on a mobile user device generated by the controller according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 Is a required updated user interface displayed on a mobile user device generated by the controller according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0040] Figure 32 Is a main view of a control panel according to an exemplary embodiment, showing the updated user interface.

[0041] Figure 33 Is a main view of a control panel according to an exemplary embodiment, showing the USB update file detection user interface.

[0042] Figure 34 Is a main view of a control panel according to an exemplary embodiment, showing the option to connect the shower control system to an application.

[0043] Figure 35 Is a mobile application page including details of the controller according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0044] Figure 36 Is a mobile application device settings page according to an exemplary embodiment, on which users can view their water usage.

[0045] Figure 37 Is a mobile application error log and diagnostic page according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0046] Figure 38 Is a mobile application page according to an exemplary embodiment, showing remote control buttons available for turning the shower on and off.

[0047] Figure 39 Is a main view of a control panel according to an exemplary embodiment, showing the water usage and duration report user interface.

[0048] Figure 40A Is a mobile application page according to an exemplary embodiment, showing a water usage report.

[0049] Figure 40B Is a mobile application page according to an exemplary embodiment, showing a shower duration report.

[0050] Figure 41A Is a graphical representation of a shower experience controlled by the controller according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0051] Figure 41B Is a graphical representation of a shower experience controlled by the controller according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0052] Figure 42 is a perspective view of a dual - outlet mixing valve according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0053] Figure 43 is a perspective view of a triple - outlet mixing valve according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0054] Figure 44 is a perspective view of a quadruple - outlet mixing valve according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0055] Figure 45 is a perspective view of a six - outlet mixing valve according to an exemplary embodiment. Detailed Description

[0056] Referring generally to the drawings, there are shown shower stalls and shower control systems according to various exemplary embodiments. The shower stall includes a shower enclosure and several shower subsystems (i.e., water subsystem, audio subsystem, steam subsystem, lighting subsystem, aromatherapy subsystem, etc.). Each of the shower subsystems has an output device (e.g., a shower outlet, a flow control valve, a temperature control valve, a solenoid associated with the valve, a lighting device, an audio output system, a steam outlet, an aromatherapy outlet, etc.), which is configured to provide an improved shower experience to a user of the shower stall.

[0057] The shower control system includes a control panel having an electronic display. The electronic display is configured to display a graphical user interface to allow a user to control various shower subsystems and / or shower output devices. A controller communicates with the electronic display and causes the graphical user interface to be presented via the electronic display. In different embodiments, the controller may be integrated with the control panel, physically separated from the control panel, or partially integrated with and partially separated from the control panel. According to an exemplary embodiment, the control panel may include a touch - sensitive panel covering the electronic display (e.g., a capacitive touchscreen) as an input device configured to receive user input and provide the user input to the controller. The control panel (e.g., via the controller) controls the various components of the shower in response to receiving user input (e.g., a signal or data representative of the user input) at the user input device.

[0058] A shower control system is provided to receive and process user input, display a graphical user interface on an electronic display, and control the output of various output devices. The shower control system advantageously includes software that causes the generation and display of an intuitive graphical user interface for providing an intuitive and powerful control experience to the user. Combinations of settings and settings can be saved in the shower control system (e.g., the controller of the system) for later playback (e.g., execution) by the controller of the shower control system. Such playback or execution causes actuation, adjustment, or other state changes of one or more shower output devices.

[0059] In some embodiments, the shower control system is connected to a communication network (e.g., LAN, WAN, Internet, etc.). The network connection can allow a user to view and modify various configuration settings stored within a controller for the shower control system and receive information from the controller (e.g., usage information, log data, etc.). In some embodiments, communication via the network is used to actively control outputs from various devices (e.g., start and stop water flow, adjust set points, turn on / off lighting, steam, audio, aromatherapy, etc.).

[0060] In some embodiments, the shower control system is configured to receive updates via a communication network. For example, the controller can be configured to receive firmware updates, software updates, configuration updates, or other updates from a remote server (e.g., from the system manufacturer) or other network data sources (e.g., networked user devices). In various embodiments, the controller can be configured to periodically check for and download updates or can receive pushed updates from a remote data source when an update becomes available. Advantageously, updating the controller via the network allows new and improved shower experiences, user interfaces, and / or other features to be provided to multiple controllers in an automated manner. The controller can then install the updates such that the new and improved features are available to the user. These and other features of the shower control system are described in more detail below.

[0061] Shower stalls and shower control systems

[0062] Now referring Figure 1 , a shower stall 100 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The shower stall 100 includes a shower enclosure 110 having a front wall 111, left wall 112, right wall 113, floor 114, and ceiling 115. An access door can allow a user to enter the shower enclosure 110. The control systems and methods of the present disclosure can be used in combination with the shower stall 100 or any other shower stall having a shower enclosure of any shape or size. For example, alternative shower enclosures can contain fewer or additional walls, have different dimensions, contain other water outlets or lighting fixtures, or be configured otherwise.

[0063] The shower enclosure 100 includes a water subsystem having various water delivery devices (i.e., shower outlets) located within the shower stall 110. For example, the shower enclosure 100 is shown as including a front showerhead 121, a left showerhead 122, a right showerhead 123, an upper body spray 124, a middle body spray 125, a lower body spray 126, a side body spray 129, a handheld shower 127, and a rain showerhead 128. In various embodiments, the water subsystem, or group of water delivery devices, may include any number of water delivery devices or combinations of water delivery devices. For example, in an alternative exemplary embodiment, the water subsystem may include a center body spray (e.g., a vertical post of shower outlets) instead of the upper body spray 124 and the middle body spray 125. In another exemplary embodiment, the left showerhead 122 and the right showerhead 123 may be located on the front wall 111. The shower outlets 121-129 may be located on any of the surfaces 111-114, and in various embodiments may include additional or fewer shower outlets.

[0064] The water subsystem may include one or more analog valves or digital valves. Each of the valves may be associated with one or more of the shower outlets 121-129 and may be configured to control the water temperature and / or flow rate of the water delivered by the associated shower outlet. The valves of the system may be configured to allow the electronically controlled mixing of cold and hot water. Such mixing may enable the control systems and methods described herein to achieve or approximate a specific target temperature (i.e., temperature control). The valves of the system may also be configured to allow electronically controlled or electronically selected shower outlet water flow (i.e., flow rate control). The electronic control valves (e.g., solenoids for actuating hydraulic valves) are controlled via control signals from one or more controllers of the shower control system described in the present disclosure.

[0065] In some embodiments, each of the shower outlets 121-129 is associated with a different mixing valve, which is configured to control the water temperature and / or flow rate of the water dispensed from the corresponding shower outlet. For example, the mixing valves may be installed upstream of each of the shower outlets 121-129, combined with each of the shower outlets 121-129, or otherwise fluidly connected to each of the shower outlets 121-129. Each of the mixing valves may be independently controlled by a controller to allow independent control of the temperature and / or flow rate of the water dispensed from the shower outlets 121-129. In other embodiments, a single mixing valve is used to control the water temperature and / or flow rate of the water provided to the group of shower outlets 121-129 or all of the shower outlets 121-129.

[0066] In some embodiments, each of the valves is associated with a subset of the shower outlets 121-129. For example, each mixing valve may have a plurality of outlet ports (e.g., three outlet ports, six outlet ports, etc.), and each of the outlet ports is fluidly connected to one or more of the shower outlets 121-129. In other cases, one or more mixing valves may output water to a pipe including several branches, and each branch is fluidly connected to one or more of the shower outlets 121-129. The first mixing valve may control the temperature and / or flow rate of the water provided to the first subset of the shower outlets 121-129, while the second mixing valve may control the temperature and / or flow rate of the water provided to the second subset of the shower outlets 121-129. For example, the first mixing valve may control the temperature and / or flow rate of the water provided to shower outlets 121, 125, and 128, while the second mixing valve may control the temperature and / or flow rate of the water provided to shower outlets 122, 123, 124, 126, and 127. Advantageously, using a plurality of different mixing valves allows the water from different shower outlets to have different temperatures and / or flow rates. In various embodiments, any number of mixing valves may be used to define any number of temperature zones.

[0067] The water subsystem may be controlled via control signals from one or more controllers of the shower control system described in the present disclosure. For example, the controller may be configured to automatically operate the mixing valve to adjust the temperature and / or flow rate of the various groups of water provided to the shower outlets 121-129. As part of a shower experience that distributes water from the shower outlets 121-129 according to a pre-defined pattern of water temperature and / or flow rate stored, the water subsystem may be automatically operated by the controller.

[0068] In some embodiments, the shower cubicle 100 includes a steam subsystem. The steam subsystem may include a steam outlet 131 that receives steam from a steam generator that is in fluid communication with the steam outlet 131. The steam generator may be disposed between the steam outlet and the water supply and is coupled to the steam outlet and the water supply via a conduit (e.g., a pipe or a pipeline). The steam generator heats the water, converts it into steam, and then communicates it into the shower room 110 through the steam outlet 131. The steam subsystem may be controlled via control signals from one or more controllers of the shower control system described in the present disclosure and may be used to incorporate steam into the shower experience.

[0069] In some embodiments, the shower stall 100 includes an aromatherapy subsystem. The aromatherapy subsystem can be configured to distribute various aromas or scents (e.g., aromatic oils, essential oils, aromatic compounds, etc.) into the shower enclosure 110. The aromatherapy subsystem can include an air diffuser, a heater, an evaporator, or other devices configured to evaporate stored aromatic substances and discharge aromatic vapors into the shower enclosure 110. In some embodiments, the aromatic vapors are combined with the vapors discharged via the steam outlet 131. In other embodiments, the aromatic vapors are discharged via a separate aromatherapy outlet 181 (as Figure 2 shown), and the aromatherapy outlet 181 can be located within the shower enclosure 110 (e.g., anywhere along any of the walls 111 - 115). The aromatherapy subsystem can be configured to selectively evaporate and distribute any one of a plurality of stored aromatic substances in response to control signals from a user control panel and / or a controller. The aromatherapy subsystem can be controlled via control signals from one or more controllers of the shower control system described in this disclosure, and can be used to incorporate aromatherapy into the shower experience.

[0070] In some embodiments, the shower stall 100 includes an audio subsystem. The audio subsystem includes speakers 141, an amplifier, and a media player. The amplifier, the media player, and other components can be located near or away from the shower enclosure 110. The audio subsystem is configured to transmit sound into the shower enclosure 110. The audio subsystem (e.g., its media player) can be controlled via control signals from one or more controllers of the shower control system described in this disclosure, and can be used to incorporate music or other audio effects into the shower experience.

[0071] In some embodiments, the shower stall 100 includes a lighting subsystem. The lighting subsystem includes one or more lights 151 (e.g., conventional bulbs (e.g., incandescent bulbs, LED lights, fluorescent lights) or a plurality of colored lights of a rain shower panel configured to be used as lighting for chromatherapy. In some embodiments, the lights 151 are integrated with the shower head 128. The lighting subsystem is configured to selectively supply light into the shower enclosure 110. The lighting subsystem (e.g., a specific switch for the lights, a dimmer for the lights, etc.) can be controlled via control signals from one or more controllers of the shower control system described in this disclosure, and can be used to incorporate chromatherapy or other lighting effects into the shower experience.

[0072] The shower room 100 is shown as having a plurality of water outlets 121 - 129, a steam outlet 131, a speaker 141, a light 151, and an aroma outlet 181. Throughout this disclosure, these components may be collectively referred to as shower outlets, shower devices, shower components, shower output devices, or the like. It should be understood that these terms are not limited to water distribution outlets and may include other types of outlets or devices configured to generate various substances or other forms of energy (e.g., water, steam, light, sound, vibration, aromatic substances, etc.) and / or output various substances or other forms of energy (e.g., water, steam, light, sound, vibration, aromatic substances, etc.) into the shower room 110. Additionally, it is contemplated that the shower room 100 may include any combination or subset of the shower subsystems and / or shower output devices described with reference to Figure 1 For example, in some embodiments, the shower room 100 may include only a subset of the shower outlets 121 - 129. As another example, in some embodiments, the shower room 100 may include a water subsystem and one or more of a steam subsystem, an audio subsystem, an aroma subsystem, and a lighting subsystem. All such variations are within the teachings of this disclosure.

[0073] Still referring to Figure 1 , the shower room 100 is shown as including a control panel 160. In some embodiments, the control panel 160 is configured to receive user input for controlling the shower subsystem and for communicating the settings and status information of the shower subsystem to the user. The control panel 160 generally includes a housing and an electronic display 161 (e.g., an LCD panel). The housing includes various attachment points (e.g., brackets, fasteners, portions for receiving screw heads, etc.) for mounting the control panel 160 within the shower room 110. The housing also provides a waterproof enclosure to protect the electronic display 161 and associated internal electronic components from moisture. A touch - sensitive panel (e.g., a capacitive touch panel) may also be provided on the housing for receiving user input. A portion of the touch - sensitive panel may cover the electronic display 161 to provide a touch - screen interface. The electronic display 161 may be enabled to display a graphical user interface (GUI) and receive user input via the touch - screen interface.

[0074] The control panel 160 may be configured to display a graphical user interface via the electronic display 161 and receive user input via the touch - sensitive panel 163 and / or buttons. The control panel 160 may include a communication interface (e.g., a wired or wireless interface) for communicating with the controller 260 and / or other systems or devices. The control panel 160 may facilitate user interaction with the shower control system 200 by receiving user input, transmitting the user input to the controller 260, and displaying information to the user. In various embodiments, the controller 260 may be a component of the control panel 160 or may be implemented as a separate component.

[0075] The control panel 160 is shown as including an electronic display 161. In some embodiments, the electronic display 161 is a liquid crystal display (LCD). According to other exemplary embodiments, the electronic display 161 may use other display technologies that are particularly suitable or adapted for use in a wet environment. The electronic display 161 may be positioned behind a touch-sensitive panel 163 and configured to operate as a touchscreen display. For example, the electronic display 161 may graphically display information and soft keys (i.e., graphics or icons) configured to be selected by a user, or otherwise receive user input. The soft keys may depict, for example, virtual buttons, sliders, dials, switches, keyboards, or other graphics or icons. The control panel 160 may be configured to receive user input (e.g., when a user touches or presses one of the soft keys) or perform gestures (e.g., a swipe motion) with respect to the touch-sensitive panel 163. In some embodiments, the touch-sensitive panel 163 employs resistive touch or capacitive touch-sensitive technology (e.g., capacitive glass). In other embodiments, the touch-sensitive panel 163 may use other touch-sensitive technologies that may be applied to a wet environment, or may use touch-sensitive technology in combination with hard keys (i.e., physical buttons) located elsewhere on the control panel 160.

[0076] Now referring to Figure 2 , a block diagram illustrating a shower control system 200 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The shower control system 200 may be used to monitor and control a plurality of water delivery devices (e.g., shower outlets 121 - 129) and other controllable devices (e.g., steam outlet 131, speaker 141, light 151) that may be used therewith. In some embodiments, the shower control system 200 is used to monitor and control a shower stall 100. For example, the shower control system 200 is shown as including a plurality of mixing valves 276, each of the mixing valves being associated with one of the shower outlets 121 - 129. Each mixing valve 276 may be configured to affect the temperature and / or flow rate of the water dispensed from the corresponding shower outlet. In some embodiments, the mixing valve 276 is the same as or similar to the mixing valve described in U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 693,447, filed on April 22, 2015, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0077] The mixing valve 276 can communicate with a controller 260 configured to monitor and control the mixing valve 276. For example, the mixing valve 276 can receive a control signal from the controller 260 that causes the mixing valve 276 to variably open or close to achieve a target water temperature and / or flow rate. In some embodiments, the mixing valve 276 includes a temperature sensor and / or a flow rate sensor configured to measure the temperature and / or flow rate of the water dispensed by each of the mixing valves 276. In other embodiments, the sensors can be integrated with the shower outlets 121 - 129 or otherwise located in the shower control system 200. The sensors can provide feedback to the controller 260 regarding the temperature and / or flow rate of the water dispensed by each of the mixing valves 276. The controller 260 can use the feedback from the sensors in combination with one or more temperature set points and / or flow rate set points to determine an appropriate control signal for each of the mixing valves 276. Communication between the mixing valve 276, the controller 260, and the sensors can be wired or wireless and can use any of a variety of communication protocols.

[0078] The shower control system 200 is shown as including a lighting system 250, a steam system 230, an audio system 240, and an aromatherapy system 280. For example, the lighting system 250 can include one or more lights 151 configured to selectively supply light into the shower enclosure 110 (e.g., color therapy lights, ambient lights, rain head lights, etc.). The lighting system 250 can also include various lights or lighting fixtures located near the shower enclosure 110 (e.g., in the same room or area) or separate from the shower enclosure 110 (e.g., in a separate room or area). The steam system 230 can include one or more steam generators configured to supply steam to a steam outlet 131 within the shower enclosure 110 and / or to other steam output devices. The audio system 240 can include a media player, an amplifier, and / or speakers. The speakers can be located within the shower enclosure 110 (e.g., speaker 141) or otherwise located near the shower enclosure 110 or in different rooms or areas. The aromatherapy system 280 can include an air diffuser, a heater, an evaporator, or other devices configured to evaporate stored aromatic substances and discharge aromatic vapors into the shower enclosure 110. In some embodiments, the aromatic vapors are combined with the steam discharged via the steam outlet 131.

[0079] The lighting system 250, the steam system 230, the audio system 240, and the aromatherapy system 280 can communicate with the controller 260 via a wired communication link or a wireless communication link. The controller 260 can provide control signals to the lighting system 250, the steam system 230, the audio system 240, and the aromatherapy system 280 to control their output devices (e.g., lights, steam outlets, speakers, air diffusers, etc.). In various embodiments, the controller 260 can communicate directly with the output devices of the systems 230-280 or with one or more intermediate controllers (e.g., lighting controllers, steam controllers, music controllers, etc.) configured to control one or more of the output devices of the systems 230-280.

[0080] In some embodiments, the controller 260 communicates with the control panel 160 via a wired communication link or a wireless communication link. The controller 260 can be configured to receive and process user input from the control panel 160 and control the shower outlets 121-129, the lighting system 250, the steam system 230, the audio system 240, and / or the aromatherapy system 280 based on the user input. For example, the control panel 160 can present a user interface that allows the user to view and modify set points (e.g., temperature set points, flow rate set points, etc.) for the mixing valve 276, to start or stop the flow of water from the shower outlets 121-129 (e.g., individually or as one or more groups), to run a pre-defined sequence of water outputs from the shower outlets 121-129, and / or to otherwise interact with or control the shower outlets 121-129.

[0081] The control panel 160 and the controller 260 can facilitate user interaction with the lighting system 250, the steam system 230, the audio system 240, and the aromatherapy system 280. For example, the user can provide input via the control panel 160 to turn the lighting on or off, start a chromotherapy sequence, or otherwise monitor and control the lighting system 250. The user can provide input via the control panel 160 to view and modify the steam temperature set point, start or stop the steam from the steam outlet 131, or otherwise monitor and control the steam system 230. The user can provide input via the control panel 160 to start or stop the playback from the speaker 141, select an audio source, increase or decrease the audio volume, or otherwise monitor and control the audio system 240. The user can provide input via the control panel 160 to view and modify the aromatherapy settings, start or stop the aromatherapy output, or otherwise monitor and control the aromatherapy system 280.

[0082] In some embodiments, the control panel 160 provides a user interface that allows a user to select and initiate a shower experience. The shower experience can automatically operate one or more of the mixing valve 276, the lighting system 250, the steam system 230, the audio system 240, and the aromatherapy system 280 using a pre-defined output sequence to provide a multi-sensory user experience. Several exemplary shower experiences that can be provided by the shower control system 200 are described in detail in U.S. Patent No. 10,626,583, filed on January 1, 2015, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0083] In some embodiments, the shower control system 200 includes a plurality of control panels 160. Each control panel 160 can be disposed at a different location (e.g., within the shower stall 100, outside the shower stall 100, in different shower stalls, etc.) to facilitate user interaction with the shower control system 200 at multiple different locations. Each control panel 160 can be associated with one or more discrete shower stalls that can be controlled by the shower control system 200. For example, the shower stalls can be located in different rooms within the same house, hotel, apartment building, hospital, or the like. An instance of the control panel 160 can be located near each of the shower stalls to allow a user to control the corresponding shower stall and its devices (e.g., the mixing valve 276, the lighting system 250, the steam system 230, the audio system 240, etc.). For example, the control panel 160 within a particular hotel room can allow a user to control the devices within that hotel room.

[0084] In some embodiments, each instance of the control panel 160 is associated with a corresponding instance of the controller 260. For example, one instance of the controller 260 can control the devices within a particular room, while another instance of the controller 260 can control the devices within another room. In other embodiments, the controller 260 is a centralized controller that receives and processes inputs from multiple control panels 160. The centralized controller 260 can control the devices within a room or area based on user inputs provided via the control panels 160 for multiple different rooms or areas.

[0085] In various embodiments, the controller 260 can be integrated with one or more of the control panels 160 or separated from the control panels 160. The controller 260 can receive inputs from the control panels 160 and can control the user interface provided via the electronic display 161. The controller 260 processes user inputs received at the control panels 160 (e.g., user inputs received via a touch screen, buttons, switches, or other user input devices of the control panels 160) and provides control outputs to the mixing valve 276, the lighting system 250, the steam system 230, and the audio system 240 based on the user inputs.

[0086] In some embodiments, the controller 260 is connected to a network 290 (e.g., LAN, WAN, Wi-Fi network, Internet, cellular network, etc.) configured to facilitate interaction with the controller 260. For example, a user can communicate with the controller 260 via the network 290 using any of a variety of mobile devices 294 (e.g., laptop computers, tablets, smart phones, etc.) or non-mobile devices 296 (e.g., desktop computers, workstations, servers, etc.). In Figures 25 to 29 more detail, a GUI presented to the mobile device 294 is shown. Communication via the network 290 can allow a user to view and modify various configuration settings stored within the controller 260 (e.g., valve configuration settings, network configuration settings, outlet configuration settings, cleaning cycles, etc.), and allow the user to receive information from the controller 260 (e.g., usage information, log data, etc.). In some embodiments, communication via the network 290 can be used to actively control outputs from various devices (e.g., start and stop water flow, adjust set points, turn on / off lighting, steam, audio, aromatherapy, etc.).

[0087] In some embodiments, the user interface presented via the control panel 160 also allows a user to view and modify configuration settings, and retrieve information from the controller 260. User interactivity options available via the control panel 160 can include some or all of the operations that can be performed via the network 290. In some embodiments, the user interactivity options available via the control panel 160 are limited to a subset of the operations available via the network 290. For example, a system administrator can configure each control panel 160 to allow a user to control a group of devices without allowing the user to modify configuration settings. The options available to the user via the control panel 160 can be defined by configuration parameters stored within the controller 260, which can be modified via the network 290.

[0088] In some embodiments, the controller 260 is configured to receive updates via the network 290. For example, the controller 260 can be configured to receive firmware updates, software updates, configuration updates, or other updates from a remote server (e.g., from the system manufacturer) or other network data sources (e.g., networked user devices). In various embodiments, the controller can be configured to periodically check for and download updates, or can receive pushed updates from a remote data source (shown as remote computing system 298) when an update becomes available. Advantageously, updating the controller 260 via the network 290 allows new and improved shower experiences, user interfaces, and / or other features to be provided to multiple controllers 260 in an automated manner. The controller 260 can then install the updates to make the new and improved features available to the user.

[0089] Now refer to Figure 3, A block diagram of another shower control system 300 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The shower control system 300 is shown to include many of the same components as the shower control system 200. However, in the shower control system 300, each mixing valve 276a - 276d is associated with one or more water delivery devices 278a - 278d, rather than with a specific shower outlet. Each mixing valve 276a - 276d can be an instance of the mixing valve 276 as described with reference to Figure 2 . Mixing valves 276a and 276d are shown to supply water to a plurality of water delivery devices 278a and 278d, respectively. The water delivery devices 278a and 278d can be a group of shower outlets, faucets, bathtub faucets, etc. within the same temperature group. Mixing valves 276b and 276c are shown to supply water to a single water delivery device 278b and 278c, respectively. The water delivery devices 278b and 278c can be individual shower outlets, faucets, bathtub faucets, etc.

[0090] In some embodiments, the mixing valves 276a - 276d are located within the same general area (e.g., behind the wall of a shower enclosure, within a bathroom, etc.) and are configured to supply water to various water delivery devices in that area. For example, the mixing valves 276a - 276d can be configured to supply water to the respective shower outlets within the same shower enclosure as described with reference to Figure 1 and Figure 2 . In other embodiments, the mixing valves 276a - 276d are located in different physical areas (e.g., within different hotel rooms, apartments, hospital rooms, etc.) and are configured to supply water to the water delivery devices in each of the different physical areas. For example, mixing valves 276a - 276b can be located in a first hotel room and be configured to supply water to the water delivery devices 278a - 278b in the first hotel room, while mixing valves 276c - 276d can be located in a second hotel room and be configured to supply water to the water delivery devices 278c - 278d in the second hotel room.

[0091] Each group of the water delivery devices 278a - 278d can be associated with one or more controllers 260 configured to monitor and control the water delivery devices 278a - 278d. In various embodiments, the controller 260 can be a centralized controller for all of the water delivery devices 278a - 278d or a local controller for a subset of the water delivery devices 278a - 278d (e.g., a group of water delivery devices 278a - 278d located in the same room or area). The controller 260 can also be configured to monitor and control as described with reference to Figure 2One or more of the lighting system 250, steam system 230, audio system 240, and / or aromatherapy system 280 may be provided. One or more control panels 160 may be provided to facilitate user interaction with the controller 260 and the controllable devices associated therewith.

[0092] In some embodiments, the shower control system 300 allows programming of a single water delivery device or multiple water delivery devices and / or the associated controller 260 via the network 290. This is particularly advantageous as it allows programming of one or more water delivery devices and / or the controller 260 individually from a single location (e.g., via a single communication device such as a mobile device 294 or a non-mobile device 296). Multiple control systems 300 and their components may be programmed and updated via the network 290 from a centralized location (e.g., from a user device and / or a remote server), as referenced Figure 2 as described.

[0093] Now referring to Figure 4 , a block diagram more particularly illustrating the controller 260 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The controller 260 may be a central controller for multiple rooms or areas (e.g., a building management system controller in a hospital, residential building, office building, etc.), or a local controller for a specific room or area (e.g., a controller for a specific shower area). The controller 260 is shown to include a communication interface 344 and a processing circuit 302.

[0094] The controller 260 is shown to include a communication interface 344, a processor 304, and a memory 306. The processor 304 may be a general-purpose processor or a special-purpose processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), one or more programmable logic controllers (PLCs), one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), a set of processing components, or other suitable processing components. The processor 304 is configured to execute computer code or instructions stored in the memory 306 or received from other computer-readable media (e.g., embedded flash memory, local hard disk storage, local ROM, network storage, remote server, etc.).

[0095] The memory 306 may include one or more devices (e.g., storage cells, memory devices, storage devices, etc.) for storing data and / or computer code to perform and / or facilitate the various methods described in this disclosure. The memory 306 may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard drive storage, temporary storage, non-volatile memory, flash memory, optical memory, or any other suitable memory for storing software objects and / or computer instructions. The memory 306 may include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described in this disclosure. The memory 306 may be communicatively coupled to the processor 304 via the processing circuitry and may include computer code for performing (e.g., by the processor 304) one or more of the methods described herein. For example, the memory 306 may include graphics, web pages, HTML files, XML files, script code, sprinkler configuration files, or other resources for generating a graphical user interface for display and / or for interpreting user interface inputs to make command, control, or communication decisions.

[0096] The communication interface 344 may include a wired communication interface or a wireless communication interface (e.g., jacks, antennas, transmitters, receivers, transceivers, wired terminals, etc.) for electronic data communication with various systems or devices. For example, the communication interface 344 may be used to communicate with the network 290, the mixing valve 276, the lighting system 250, the steam system 230, the audio system 240, and / or the control panel 160. Communication via the communication interface 344 may be direct (e.g., local wired communication or wireless communication) or via the network 290 (e.g., LAN, WAN, Internet, cellular network, etc.). For example, the communication interface 344 may include an Ethernet card and port for sending and receiving data via an Ethernet-based communication link or network. In another exemplary embodiment, the communication interface 344 may include a Wi-Fi transceiver for communicating via a wireless communication network or Wi-Fi direct communication. In another exemplary embodiment, the communication interface 344 may include a cellular or mobile phone communication transceiver, a power line communication interface, and / or any other type of wired communication hardware or wireless communication hardware.

[0097] The processing circuit 302 is shown as including a processor 304 and a memory 306. The processor 304 may be implemented as a general-purpose processor or a special-purpose processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), a set of processing components, or other suitable electronic processing components. The memory 306 (e.g., memory, memory unit, storage device, etc.) may include one or more devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, flash memory, hard disk storage, etc.) for storing data and / or computer code to complete or facilitate the various processes, layers, and modules described in the present application. The memory 306 may be or include volatile memory or non-volatile memory, and may include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described in the present application. According to an exemplary embodiment, the memory 306 is communicatively coupled to the processor 304 via the processing circuit 302 and includes computer code for performing (e.g., by the processing circuit 302 and / or the processor 304) one or more of the methods described herein.

[0098] Still referring to Figure 4 , the memory 306 is shown as including a disinfection schedule 308. The disinfection schedule 308 may include a thermal disinfection schedule and / or an electrical disinfection schedule for one or more water delivery devices. Thermal disinfection may be accomplished by controlling a heating element located within a mixing valve. The heating element may be controlled to heat the valve such that the water contained within the valve serves as a disinfectant for at least a portion of the valve. Programmable features / settings associated with thermal disinfection include a target water temperature, a disinfection timeout period, a disinfection preheat time, and a total disinfection time. Programmable features / settings associated with electrical disinfection include a disinfection frequency time, a disinfection activation time, and a disinfection timeout period. The disinfection schedule 308 may be programmed by a user via the network 290 or the control panel 160, or received from a remote computing system 298 as part of a packaged update.

[0099] Still referring to Figure 4, the memory 306 is shown as including device configuration settings 310. The device configuration settings 310 may include programmable features / settings associated with various devices controlled by the controller 260 (such as the mixing valve 276, the lighting system 250, the steam system 230, the audio system 240, the aromatherapy system 280, etc.). For example, the device configuration settings 310 may include a water set point temperature, an operating mode (e.g., full cold water mode), a default flow rate, a flow rate change increment, a timeout duration, an operating time, a reaction time, a blocking time, and other similar features for the mixing valve 276. The device configuration settings 310 may also include configuration settings for the lighting system 250, the steam system 230, the audio system 240, and / or the aromatherapy system 280. In some embodiments, the device configuration settings 310 include a shower experience that defines a sequence of programmed outputs from the output devices. The device configuration settings 310 may be programmed by the user via the network 290 or the control panel 160, or received from a remote data source as part of a packaged update. For example, when the user or installer adjusts any of the above settings via the control panel 160 or the user device 294 - 296, the changed information may be transmitted to the controller 260 via the communication interface 344 and stored in the memory 306.

[0100] The memory 306 is shown as including network configuration settings 312. The network configuration settings 312 may define the type of communication used by the controller 260 (e.g., infrared, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB, etc.) and / or the network locations of various external components with which the controller 260 communicates. For example, the network configuration settings 312 may specify the wireless or wired network 290 (e.g., LAN) to which the controller 260 is connected, and may include any network information necessary to connect to the network 290 (e.g., SSID, password, network key, authentication type, etc.). The network configuration settings 312 may also define whether the controller 260 is set to receive updates from a networked data source via the network 290, and may specify the network location of the networked data source (e.g., URL, IP address, etc.). The network configuration settings may be programmed by the user via the network 290 or the control panel 160, or received from a remote data source as part of a packaged update.

[0101] Still referring to Figure 4, the memory 306 is shown as including an outlet configuration 314. The outlet configuration 314 may store data describing a particular configuration of the water delivery devices controlled by the controller 260. For example, the outlet configuration 314 may define which water delivery devices are connected to the same valve, which water delivery devices are within the same control group (i.e., a group of devices that can be controlled together), the location of the water delivery devices (e.g., within a particular room or area of a facility), and / or any other information related to the configuration of the outlets. The outlet configuration 314 may be programmed by a user via the network 290 or the control panel 160, or received from a remote data source as part of a packaged update.

[0102] The memory 306 is shown as including a cleaning controller 316 that initiates a cleaning cycle for the shower. The cleaning controller 316 may store data related to the cleaning of one or more of the water delivery devices. The cleaning feature allows the shower control system 200 to achieve a target water temperature at an accelerated rate by quickly flushing the water from the incoming water pipe leading to the system. The cleaning feature may be useful, for example, when the shower 100 is initially turned on to flush water that has lost its heat from the hot water incoming pipe. If the cleaning feature is enabled (e.g., via a user input on the control panel 160), the cleaning controller may activate all of the shower outlets 121 - 129 until the target temperature is reached. When the target temperature is reached, the cleaning controller 316 may pause the activation of the shower outlets 121 - 129 until a second user input is received to start the shower. Reference Figure 5 This concept is explored in more detail.

[0103] The programmable features / settings associated with the cleaning controller 316 in one or more of the water delivery devices 121 - 128 may include the type of cleaning (e.g., standard, standard oscillation, smart, and smart oscillation), frequency time, cleaning activation time, cleaning duration, cleaning temperature, and cleaning preheat time. The programmable features / settings associated with the cold cleaning cycle of one of the water delivery devices include the type of cold cleaning (e.g., standard, standard oscillation, smart, smart oscillation, etc.), frequency time, cleaning activation time, cleaning duration, cleaning temperature, and full cold water pre - cleaning time. The cleaning preferences may be programmed by the user to the cleaning controller via the network 290 or the control panel 160, or received from a remote computing system 298 as part of a packaged update.

[0104] Still referring to Figure 4, according to an exemplary embodiment, the memory 306 is shown to include a home automation integration controller 318. The home automation integration controller 318 may be communicatively coupled to a home controller (e.g., Amazon Alexa, Google Home / Nest, Home Assistant, etc.). Voice commands may be transmitted from the automated home controller to the home automation integration controller 318, whereby the home automation integration controller 318 transmits signals to operate the controllers and / or devices associated with the user's voice commands. In this way, the user can use voice control to order a cleaning or a specified shower experience. By way of example, the home automation integration controller 318 receives voice commands from the home controller and may perform natural language processing to convert the voice commands into a machine-readable format. The home automation integration controller 318 may generate control signals and transmit the control signals to the corresponding devices (e.g., mixing valve 276, water delivery devices 121 - 127, lighting system 250, steam system 230, audio system 240, aromatherapy system 280, etc.) within the shower enclosure 100 via the communication interface 344.

[0105] The memory 306 is shown to include usage information 320 and telemetry data 322. The telemetry data 322 may include parameters (e.g., water temperature, flow rate, valve position, and power usage of various shower system components). The telemetry data 322 may also include the connection status between the control panel, the main controller, and other connected devices. As an example, the telemetry data 322 may record the connection status between the controller 260 and the network 290. In some embodiments, the controller 260 is configured to record the usage information 320 related to events (e.g., water usage, cleaning cycles, and hot disinfection events, etc.). The data may be stored in the memory 306 and transmitted to external devices (e.g., user devices 294, 296, control panel 160) for analysis and reference. According to an exemplary embodiment, the data related to the events pointed out above is automatically recorded by the shower controller 260 for a period of up to 12 months. This is advantageous because it allows for the monitoring and analysis of one or more water delivery devices to determine future cost allocations associated with water usage, analyze previous usage trends, determine optimized maintenance schedules, and predict future water usage. The usage information 320 and the telemetry data 322 may be automatically stored in the memory 306 during operation. The controller 260 may be configured to retrieve (e.g., periodically and / or in response to a request from an external system or device) the usage information 320 and the telemetry data 322 from the memory 306 and send the usage information 320 and the telemetry data 322 to an external system or device via the communication interface 344.

[0106] In some embodiments, usage information 320 and telemetry data 322 are transmitted to cloud integration controller 342. Cloud integration controller 342 is communicatively coupled to remote computing system 298 via network 290. In this way, cloud integration controller 342 can collect user data (e.g., user profiles, user preferences, etc.), usage information 320, and / or telemetry data 322 and transmit them to remote computing system 298. The cloud integration controller can evaluate connectivity to confirm an active link between devices (e.g., between control panel 160 and controller 260) and transmit a connectivity status update to remote computing system 298.

[0107] According to an exemplary embodiment, remote computing system 298 may be associated with a provider or manufacturer of the shower system. Remote computing system 298 is configured to store a database of thresholds and error codes corresponding to a range of sensor data patterns. These thresholds allow remote computing system 298 to evaluate incoming data for discrepancies that may indicate an operational problem. When receiving data from cloud integration controller 342, remote computing system 298 compares it to the stored thresholds and identifies a deviation that matches a pattern associated with an error condition. For example, if temperature data from a sensor falls outside of an expected range set by the user, remote computing system 298 may assign an error code to the corresponding inlet valve. The error code and the corresponding component can be transmitted to cloud integration controller 342, which in turn may display a user interface including the error message on a user device (e.g., control panel 160, mobile user device 294, etc.). Advantageously, this can assist the user in troubleshooting or fixing systemic problems within their shower. Additionally, this allows for periodic updates to be transmitted from remote computing system 298 to cloud integration controller 342.

[0108] In some embodiments, controller 260 may store a local database of error codes and thresholds, allowing controller 260 to detect an error condition based on a comparison of sensor data to the stored thresholds. If the detected condition aligns with an error code in its database, controller 260 may assign and record the error, which it may report to remote computing system 298 or display directly on a user interface (e.g., control panel 160 or mobile device 294).

[0109] Still referring to Figure 4, the memory 306 is shown to include a valve controller 324. The valve controller 324 can be configured to monitor and control the mixing valve 276. Monitoring the mixing valve can include receiving a feedback signal indicative of the current state of the valve and / or the properties of the water dispensed by the valve. Controlling the mixing valve 276 can include generating a control signal for the mixing valve 276. The control signal can instruct one or more of the mixing valves 276 to open, close, or adjust the amount of hot and / or cold water provided through the valve to adjust the temperature and / or flow rate of the water dispensed from each of the mixing valves 276. In some embodiments, the valve controller 324 is configured to independently control each of the mixing valves 276.

[0110] The memory 306 is shown to include a system calibration controller 326. The system calibration controller 326 can perform a system calibration process on an initial setup of the shower system (e.g., the shower control system 200). In some examples, the user can recalibrate their shower system on demand (e.g., via an input on the control panel 160, via an input on an associated mobile application, etc.) to cause the system calibration controller 326 to perform the calibration process. Based on the measured flow rate of the mixing valves, the system calibration controller 326 can determine the maximum flow rate for each shower outlet (e.g., the water delivery devices 121 - 129) in the shower enclosure 100. The system calibration controller 326 can determine the possible maximum flow rate for each combination of the water delivery devices 121 - 129 within a given shower system. The system calibration controller 326 can also determine the maximum flow rate based on the number of activated shower outlets. If the user activates additional shower outlets or deactivates a shower outlet during the shower experience, the maximum flow rate for each activated shower outlet is recalculated. In this way, the system calibration controller 326 dynamically determines the maximum range and scale of the flow rate.

[0111] In some examples, the system calibration controller 326 determines the maximum flow rate for each of the water delivery devices 121 - 129 by measuring the flow rate output by each mixing valve 276. The measured flow rate can be used as an input to a data table that outputs the maximum flow rate for a particular mixing valve 276 and shower system. For example, if the user sets a flow rate percentage (e.g., 50%) for a particular shower outlet, the system calibration controller 326 will receive the measured flow rate delivered by the corresponding mixing valve 276. However, the physical position of the valve (e.g., 50% open) may not necessarily be related to 50% of the maximum flow rate (e.g., due to variations in water pressure, plumbing configuration, or activation of additional outlets, etc.). To address this issue, the system calibration controller 326 can operate in a dynamic feedback loop to continuously adjust the position of the mixing valves 276 in real time or near real time to match the actual flow rate to the user's desired setting.

[0112] Memory 306 is shown as including an experience controller 328. The experience controller 328 can be configured to store recorded shower experiences and pre-programmed shower experiences. Each of the shower experiences can correspond to a specific output sequence from shower outlets 121-129, steam outlet 131, speaker 141, light 151, and / or aroma outlet 181. For example, some of the shower experiences can include dispensing water and / or steam from a predetermined combination of shower outlets 121-129 and steam outlet 131 at a specific temperature for a specific duration. Some of the shower experiences can include multiple stages sequentially executed by the shower control system 200. Some of the shower experiences can include playing a specific audio track via speaker 141 during the shower experience, or coordinating audio effects with events that occur during the shower experience (e.g., transitioning between stages of the shower experience, starting steam discharge, etc.). Some of the shower experiences can include lighting effects and / or aroma effects coordinated with the various stages of the shower experience and / or events that occur during the shower experience. It is contemplated that the shower experiences provided by the experience controller 328 can include coordinated outputs from any one or all of the shower subsystems 230-280. In other words, the shower experiences can include any combination of different types of experiences or effects (e.g., water experience, steam experience, aroma experience, audio experience, lighting experience, etc.) provided by the shower subsystems 230-280. This concept is explored in more detail with reference to the synchronization controller 330. A user can select a shower experience by selecting the corresponding graphical element via the control panel 160 or Figure 29 the shower experience GUI shown.

[0113] The valve controller 324 can generate a control signal by comparing the flow output of each mixing valve 276 with a set point. The set point can be a user-defined set point provided via the network 290 or the control panel 160, or a programmed set point defined by a programmed shower experience or other automated feature. The flow output can be measured by one or more sensors configured to measure the temperature and / or flow rate of the water dispensed to one or more of the mixing valves 276. The valve controller 324 can use any one of a variety of control techniques (e.g., proportional control, proportional-integral (PI) control, proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control, model predictive control (MPC), pattern recognition adaptive control (PRAC), etc.) to determine the appropriate control signal for the mixing valve.

[0114] Each mixing valve 276 can be configured to affect the water dispensed from one or more water delivery devices. The valve controller 324 can use the stored outlet configuration 314 to determine which mixing valves 276 correspond to which groups of water delivery devices that need to be adjusted. The valve controller 324 can then provide the generated control signals to the determined mixing valves 276 via the communication interface 344.

[0115] The memory 306 is shown as including a synchronization controller 330. In an exemplary embodiment, the synchronization controller 330 can be configured to transmit communications to the lighting controller 332, the audio controller 336, and the valve controller 324. The synchronization controller 330 is configured to synchronize the lighting output from the lighting system 250, the audio output from the audio system 240, and the spray pattern output from the mixing valves 276. In this way, the controller 260 can create a synchronized shower experience in which the light output and water spray pattern are synchronized with audio (such as music or any other user-selected audio sound). The outlets (e.g., outlets 121-129) can have a spray pattern controller that is the same or similar to the shower sprayer system described in U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 241,764, filed on April 27, 2021, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0116] The memory 306 is shown as including a lighting controller 332, a steam controller 334, an audio controller 336, and an aroma controller 338. The controllers 334-338 can be similar to the valve controller 324 in that they provide functions used by the controller 260 to control various types of output devices. For example, the lighting controller 332 can be configured to monitor and control the lighting system 250, the steam controller 334 can be configured to monitor and control the steam system 230, the audio controller 336 can be configured to monitor and control the audio system 240, and the aroma controller 338 can be configured to monitor and control the aroma system 280.

[0117] Controllers 334-338 can be configured to receive feedback signals from systems 230-280 via communication interface 344 and generate control signals for systems 230-280. In some cases, the control signals are based on user-defined setpoints, or other user inputs provided via network 290 or control panel 160. For example, a user can provide input to control panel 160 to increase or decrease the steam temperature setpoint or turn on / off lighting fixtures. In other cases, the control signals are based on programmed control sequences stored in memory 306 (e.g., a shower experience stored on experience controller 328 or a shower experience recorded on experience recorder 340). Controllers 334-338 can provide the generated control signals to systems 230-280 via communication interface 344. It should be understood that the programmable features / settings disclosed herein are merely exemplary, and additional programmable features associated with water delivery control can be included in the control architecture.

[0118] Memory 306 is shown to include experience recorder 340. Experience recorder 340 is configured to record the sequence of changes a user makes to shower settings during a shower experience and store those changes at memory 306. User inputs can be changes to the temperature setpoint, turning certain shower outlets on or off at certain times, changing the outlet spray pattern, activating aromatherapy, activating steam output, etc. User inputs can also be changes to lighting system 250, audio system 240, or inputs to synchronize the systems. According to an exemplary embodiment, experience recorder 340 receives the sequence of changes a user makes to settings during a shower and creates a corresponding shower experience. For example, experience recorder 340 can record each user input (e.g., via a button on control panel 160, mobile device 294, etc.) and an associated timestamp into a log. Experience recorder 340 can organize the logged data into a structured format (e.g., an array or object) for storage in memory 306. Each entry within the log can include parameters such as the type of setting changed (e.g., temperature, outlet state, etc.), the specific value of the setting (e.g., 102°F, front showerhead 121 on), and the timestamp. In some examples, experience recorder 340 can export / transfer a data packet including each recorded experience via network 290 to a connected application (e.g., Kohler Konnect) such that the user can access their recorded experiences remotely (e.g., from mobile device 294, non-mobile device 296, etc.).

[0119] The experience recorder 340 can generate or update the GUI displayed on the control panel 160 to include user-selectable options for the recorded shower experience. For example, the experience recorder 340 can cause the control panel 160 to display an icon or image associated with the recorded experience. In some examples, the experience recorder 340 can prompt the user to name the recorded experience when the recording process is complete. The icon, image, or user-entered name of the recorded shower experience can be transmitted as part of the above-described data packet to the connected application. For example, the user can name the recorded experience "Morning Shower" and can select a corresponding icon. The experience recorder 340 can cause the control panel 160 to display the selected icon by the user, and can transmit the title to the connected application for display (see Figure 27 ).

[0120] Now referring to Figure 5 , a flowchart of a cleaning method 500 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The method 500 can be executed by the spray controller 260, or more specifically, by the cleaning controller 316. In step 502, the shower controller 260 displays a graphical user interface including a menu of shower experience options (see Figure 29 and Figure 30 ). According to an exemplary embodiment, this menu of shower experience options includes an option for the user to select a cleaning mode, which causes a cleaning cycle to be performed prior to their selected shower experience. In an exemplary embodiment, the user selects a water temperature set point to start their shower experience. In other embodiments, the user's default shower temperature preference can be selected as the water temperature set point.

[0121] In step 504, the shower controller 260 enters the cleaning mode upon receiving a user input that commands a cleaning cycle. The input can be provided via the connected mobile device 294, the control panel 160, or another user interface. In the cleaning mode, the shower controller 260 can identify the mixing valve 276 and the water delivery device 278 that must be operated to perform the cleaning cycle. In step 506, the shower controller 260 transmits control signals to operate one or more water delivery devices 278 and / or the mixing valve 276. For example, the shower controller 260 can transmit a signal to the mixing valve to open and intake hot and cold water according to the temperature set point.

[0122] At step 508, the shower controller 260 may retrieve water temperature data from one or more temperature sensors (e.g., disposed on or near the shower water inlet pipe, integrated with the mixing valve 276, etc.). The shower controller 260 compares the temperature data with a temperature set point. If the water temperature dispensed by the water delivery device does not meet the temperature set point, the controller continues to operate the water delivery device 278 and / or the mixing valve 276. In some examples, the shower controller 260 may transmit a control signal to the mixing valve to adjust the intake of hot and cold water based on the difference between the measured water temperature and the temperature set point. If the water temperature meets the water temperature set point, the shower controller 260 proceeds to step 510.

[0123] At step 510, the shower controller 260 pauses the flow of water through the water delivery device 278 in response to a water temperature that meets the water temperature set point. For example, the shower controller 260 may close the mixing valve 276 to pause the flow of water through the water delivery device 278. In other examples, the shower controller 260 may actuate additional devices within the shower enclosure 100 (e.g., a flow restrictor, a shut-off valve, or other flow control device) to pause the flow of water through the water delivery device 278.

[0124] At step 512, the shower controller 260 receives a second user input to start the shower after the rinse cycle is complete. In response to receiving the second user input, the shower controller 260 may transmit a control signal to operate the mixing valve 276 or other flow control device to resume dispensing water through the water delivery device 278.

[0125] Now referring Figure 6 , a flowchart of a method 600 for recording a shower experience is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The method 600 may be executed by the spray controller 260, or more specifically, by the experience recorder 340. At step 602, the shower controller 260 displays a menu of shower experience options on the graphical user interface. Step 602 may be the same as or substantially similar to step 502 in Figure 5 method 500. According to an exemplary embodiment, this menu of shower experience options includes an option to enter a recording mode.

[0126] At step 604, the shower controller 260 receives a user input (e.g., via a communication link, communication interface 344, etc.) indicating that the user has selected the record experience option. For example, the user may select the recorded experience option on the control panel 160 or the mobile user device 294.

[0127] In step 606, according to an exemplary embodiment, the shower controller 260 stores, at the controller memory 306, a sequence of settings based on user input for the overall shower experience. The user input can be a change to the temperature set point, turning certain shower outlets on or off at certain times, changing the outlet spray pattern, activating aromatherapy, activating steam output, etc. The user input can also be a change to the lighting system 250, the audio system 240, or an input to synchronize the systems therewith. The controller 260 receives the sequence of changes the user makes to the settings during the shower and creates a corresponding shower experience. The controller 260 can stop recording in response to a second user input (e.g., via the control panel 160) or when the user closes the shower enclosure 100.

[0128] After the recorded shower is over, the controller 260 can create a new user-selectable shower experience option corresponding to the recorded shower experience on the shower experience menu (steps 608, 610). For example, the recorder can store the user's input change from an initial 100°F to 104°F two minutes into the shower, the input to turn on the rain shower head 128 five minutes into the shower, and the input to end the shower at 10 minutes. After the shower experience is over, the controller 260 can create and display a shower experience option corresponding to the recorded shower experience. The user can later select the recorded option to start a ten-minute shower period that initially outputs water at 100°F, increases to 104°F at two minutes, and activates the rain shower head 128 five minutes into the shower period.

[0129] Now referring Figure 7 , a flowchart of a synchronization method 700 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The method 500 can be executed by the shower controller 260, or more specifically, by the synchronization controller 330. In step 702, the shower controller 260 displays, on a graphical user interface, a menu of shower experience options, including synchronized shower experience options. Step 702 can be the same as or substantially similar to step 502 in the method 500 of Figure 5 and step 602 in the method 600 of Figure 6 .

[0130] In step 704, the shower controller 260 receives user input (e.g., via a communication link, the communication interface 344, etc.) indicating that the user has selected a synchronized shower experience. In some examples, the preset shower experience includes synchronized sounds (e.g., music, white noise, etc.), light patterns and colors, and spray patterns output by the water delivery device 278. In other examples, the user can choose to play sounds (e.g., music, white noise, etc.) via the audio system 240 and can choose to synchronize the lights and / or spray patterns with the sounds they have selected.

[0131] In step 706, the shower controller 260 transmits a control signal to operate the audio system 240 to output the sound selected by the user or a sound corresponding to the selected shower experience. In step 708, the shower controller 260 may transmit a control signal to the lighting system 250 to output various light patterns and colors synchronized with the sound played by the audio system 240. The controller 260 may simultaneously operate the water delivery device 278 (e.g., shower outlets 121-129) to output a spray pattern synchronized with the sound played by the audio system 240. In some examples, the shower controller 260 synchronizes the light pattern, light color, and spray pattern with the sound by performing frequency synchronization. For example, the shower controller 260 may analyze the sound frequency or beat of the audio in real time, near real time, or based on pre-analyzed data. Changes in the audio frequency, intensity, or beat pattern may be used to trigger alternating light patterns or spray patterns.

[0132] In an alternative embodiment, the sound output by the audio system 240 and the water pattern output by the water delivery device may be synchronized with the light output by the lighting system 250. In other embodiments, the sound output by the audio system 240 and the light output by the lighting system 250 may be synchronized with the water pattern output by the water delivery device.

[0133] Now refer to Figure 8 , a flowchart of an error detection method 800 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The method 800 may be performed by the shower controller 260, or more specifically, by the cloud integration controller 342 using the telemetry data 322 and the usage information 320. In an exemplary embodiment, the mixing valve 276 includes various sensors (e.g., a temperature sensor and a flow rate sensor). At step 802, the cloud integration controller 342 may retrieve data from the temperature sensor and the flow rate sensor associated with the mixing valve 276. As described above, the cloud integration controller 342 may collect the usage information 320 associated with the user input. The cloud integration controller 342 may determine additional usage information 320 based on the sensor data. For example, the cloud integration controller 342 may calculate how many gallons of water are used during a shower and transmit the calculated value to the remote computing system 298.

[0134] In step 804, the cloud integration controller 342 transmits the collected and measured data via network 290 to a remote computing system (i.e., a cloud computing system). In some examples, the remote computing system is associated with the provider or manufacturer of the shower 100. The remote computing system 298 may store a database of error codes that correspond to various ranges and patterns of sensor data that may indicate an operational problem. The error codes may include a classification of the severity of the error. For example, a severe error may require a hard system reset (e.g., a power cycle) to clear the error. A recoverable error may be cleared without a reset (e.g., via user input on a user device), and a warning error may indicate that an operational parameter (e.g., temperature, flow rate, valve position, etc.) is outside of a preset “normal” range.

[0135] When receiving data from the cloud integration controller 342, the remote system may compare the data with stored parameters to detect differences or deviations indicating an error condition. Additionally, the remote computing system 298 may determine the device associated with the error condition. For example, if the temperature sensor data indicates a temperature outside of the expected range set by the user, the remote computing system 298 may assign an error code to a specific inlet valve within the shower 100.

[0136] Although the example above describes the remote computing system 298 detecting an error in a specific device and assigning an associated error code, it is contemplated that the shower controller 260 may similarly store a database of error codes. In such an embodiment, the shower controller 260 may retrieve data from sensors associated with shower system components and compare the data with stored error code thresholds or patterns. Upon detecting a condition that matches an error code within its local database, the shower controller 260 may assign the corresponding error code and log the error for subsequent reporting to the remote computing system 298 or directly to a user interface (e.g., the control panel 160, the mobile device 294, the non-mobile device 296, etc.).

[0137] The remote computing system 298 may further determine a diagnosis, troubleshooting instructions, or a notification of necessary repairs. Upon identifying an error or abnormal condition, the remote computing system 298 may retrieve or generate specific troubleshooting steps, diagnoses, and / or repair recommendations for the detected error. For example, the troubleshooting steps, diagnoses, and / or repair recommendations may include steps for recalibrating a sensor, checking a specific water delivery device 278, or performing a routine maintenance task (e.g., cleaning or replacing a component).

[0138] In step 806, the cloud integration controller 342 receives the identified errors, diagnostics, and troubleshooting instructions. At step 808, the cloud integration controller 342 causes a user display (e.g., control panel 160, mobile device 294, non-mobile device 296) to display the detected error. For example, the cloud integration controller 342 may cause the user display to show an error code, the type of error, and / or the device associated with the error. Depending on the type of error and the severity of the error, the cloud integration controller 342 may proceed to step 810.

[0139] In step 810, the cloud integration controller 342 displays troubleshooting information, diagnostics, and / or repair suggestions on the user display (e.g., control panel 160, mobile device 294, non-mobile device 296). For example, if an error is detected in one of the mixing valves 276, the display may show a diagnostic report detailing the affected component, the nature of the detected problem, and suggestions for resolving the error. The troubleshooting information may include step-by-step instructions for resolving the detected error. For example, if the value reported by the water temperature sensor is outside of an acceptable range, the display may show instructions guiding the user through the steps for recalibrating the sensor, checking for any obstructions, or contacting support services.

[0140] Now refer to Figure 9 , a flowchart of a calibration method 900 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The calibration method 900 may be performed by the controller 260, or more specifically, by the system calibration controller 326.

[0141] In an exemplary embodiment, the mixing valves 276 and the paths to each mixing valve's specific fittings (e.g., water delivery device 278) include various sensors, such as temperature sensors and flow rate sensors. In step 902, the system calibration controller 326 retrieves sensor data indicative of the flow rate through the mixing valve 276 and the associated water delivery device 278.

[0142] In step 904, the system calibration controller 326 determines the maximum flow rate of each mixing valve 276 and the associated water delivery devices 121 - 129, 278 in the shower 100 based on the measured flow rate. The maximum flow rate of each shower outlet can vary based on the plumbing setup, flow regulators, and the outlet configuration specific to the shower 100. For example, the measured flow rate can be used as an input to a data table that outputs the maximum flow rate for a specific mixing valve 276 and the adapted water delivery device 278. For instance, if the user sets a flow rate percentage (e.g., 50%) for a specific shower outlet, the system calibration controller 326 will receive the measured flow rate delivered by the corresponding mixing valve 276. However, the physical position of the valve (e.g., 50% open) may not necessarily be associated with 50% of the maximum flow rate (e.g., due to variations in water pressure, plumbing configuration, or activation of additional outlets, etc.).

[0143] In step 906, the system calibration controller 326 can determine the number of currently activated water delivery devices 278 during the shower experience. For example, the system calibration controller 326 can determine the number of activated water delivery devices 278 based on the flow rate data associated with a specific water delivery device 278 or based on user input selecting the specific number of shower outlets. In step 908, the system calibration controller 326 can determine the maximum flow rate that can be output from each activated water delivery device 278 based on the number of activated water delivery devices 278.

[0144] In some examples, the system calibration controller 326 can convert the user - defined flow rate percentage into an exact absolute flow rate by referring to the maximum flow rate values it previously determined for each outlet. The system calibration controller 326 determines the absolute flow rate as a volume unit per unit of time (e.g., gallons per minute, liters per minute, etc.). By way of example, if the shower experience includes a setting of 50% flow rate for a specific water delivery device 278, the system calibration controller 326 converts this percentage to an absolute flow rate value by scaling the percentage relative to the maximum capacity of the outlet.

[0145] At step 910, the system calibration controller 326 can transmit a control signal to the mixing valve 276 associated with the activated water delivery device 278. The system calibration controller 326 can cause the mixing valve 276 to adjust the outlet position to be more closed or more open relative to the default position. If the user activates additional shower outlets or deactivates a shower outlet during the shower experience, the maximum flow rate for each activated shower outlet is recalculated. For example, if the user deactivates a shower outlet, the unused flow capacity from the deactivated shower outlet can be allocated to the remaining shower outlets within the shower enclosure 100. In this way, the system calibration controller 326 dynamically determines the maximum range and scale of the flow rate. At step 912, since the water delivery devices are activated and deactivated throughout the shower experience, the system calibration controller 326 can transmit control signals to adjust the flow rate through the water delivery device 278 based on the recalculated maximum flow rate.

[0146] Control Panel and User Interface

[0147] Now referring to Figure 10 , a main view of the control panel 160 showing the default home screen is illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment. In this embodiment, the control panel 160 includes a touch-sensitive panel 163. The control panel 160 in combination with the touch-sensitive panel 163 includes a user interface that allows a user to control the settings of the shower enclosure 100. This can include the selection of a shower experience, shower outlets, temperature, and flow rate. According to an exemplary embodiment, the control panel 160 can be mounted inside the shower enclosure 100. In other embodiments, the control panel can be mounted outside the shower stall 110. The home screen or default screen of the control panel 160 can include a shower menu button 162, a user profile button 164, and a shower settings button 166. According to an exemplary embodiment, these buttons can be displayed on the touch-sensitive panel 163. In alternative embodiments, the buttons can be hard key buttons or switches, or any combination of touch-sensitive buttons, hard key buttons, or switches.

[0148] Now referring to Figure 11 , a main view of the control panel 160 showing shower outlet options is illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment. The user can select the temperature button 168 to adjust their preferred water delivery temperature. The user can also select the flow control button 170 to adjust their preferred water delivery flow rate and pressure. In an exemplary embodiment, the shower outlet menu includes buttons corresponding to the shower outlets installed in the shower enclosure 100. In this way, the user can select which shower outlet the user wishes to deliver water from by selecting the icon corresponding to the appearance of the shower outlet. For example, the user can select the rain shower head 128 and the mid-body spray 125 on the control panel 160. Subsequently, the controller 260 transmits a signal to the mixing valve and delivers water at the desired water delivery device 278 (e.g., shower outlet).

[0149] In some examples, the control panel 160 includes an option to activate the maximum cold mode as shown by the snowflake icon 176. A user can select the snowflake icon 176 to dispense cold water from the activated water delivery device 278. For example, in response to the user selecting the snowflake icon 176, the controller 260 can operate the mixing valve 276 associated with the activated water delivery device 278 to input only cold water. In some embodiments, the maximum cold option includes a preset duration (e.g., 10 seconds, 15 seconds, 30 seconds, 1 minute, etc.). The preset duration can be a default duration or a user-input duration. In other embodiments, as long as there is continuous user input on the snowflake icon 176 (e.g., as long as the button is pressed, as long as the user touches the icon, etc.), the controller 260 operates the mixing valve 276 to input cold water.

[0150] Now refer to Figures 12 to 14 , a main view of the control panel 160 showing a steam room control user interface is illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment. According to some embodiments, the water delivery device 278 can be paired with a steam adapter and a steam generator to form a steam system. The steam system can further include a drain pan. In Figure 12 , the user has selected the steam room from the menu of shower experience options. The user can select a desired steam room temperature (e.g., 105 degrees) on the control panel 160. The control panel 160 can display an initial screen having a temperature set point for user input to start preheating the steam system and button options. Figure 13 Illustrated is a preheating user interface that can be displayed on the control panel 160 after the user selects the steam system preheating button shown in Figure 12 . The preheating user interface can display a countdown timer that shows the user the amount of time the steam system needs to preheat before reaching the desired temperature set point. On this user interface, the user can adjust the temperature set point using the + and - buttons. Accordingly, the preheating countdown timer can be dynamically adjusted based on the user's change to the desired temperature set point. Figure 14 An alternative preheating user interface is illustrated, showing the desired temperature set point and the current temperature in the shower room 110.

[0151] Now refer to Figures 15 to 16 , a main view of the control panel 160 showing a cleaning mode control user interface is illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment. As discussed with respect to process 500, the user can select the cleaning mode from the menu of shower experience options displayed on the control panel 160. Once the user selects the cleaning mode, Figure 15The user can select the desired outlet water temperature and which shower outlets they want to clean. According to an exemplary embodiment, the user can also select an "energy saving mode", which restricts the cleaning to one shower outlet and pauses the water delivery when the desired outlet water temperature is reached. Figure 25 The energy saving mode is shown in more detail in. After selecting the desired outlet water temperature for a group of shower outlets, the Figure 16 user interface shown in can be displayed. Figure 16 A cleaning preheating user interface is shown, in which the measured outlet water temperature is displayed. When the desired outlet water temperature is reached, the control panel 160 can return to display Figure 15 .

[0152] Now refer to Figures 17 to 20 , a front view of the control panel 160 showing a rain shower mode control user interface is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 17 It is shown that the user has selected the icon 172 associated with the rain shower head 128. This causes the controller 260 to direct water from the associated mixing valve 276 through the rain shower head 128. In some examples, the controller 260 operates the drain pipe to open and close, so that the rain shower head 128 fills the water reservoir (e.g., washbasin, shower tray, base, etc.) within the shower room 100. Figures 18 to 20 It is shown that the user can select the rain shower button 174 used to empty the water reservoir. As Figure 19 shown, when the water reservoir is filled, the rain shower button 174 can light up in a blinking mode and then not light up. When the user activates the rain shower mode by selecting the rain shower button 174, the water reservoir is emptied for a preset period of time (e.g., 5 - 15 seconds). The rain shower mode can be activated by the user, or can occur automatically when the sensor detects that the water reservoir is full. After the rain shower drainage period, the rain shower button 174 starts blinking again to indicate that the water reservoir is in the filling process.

[0153] Settings, Updates, and Preferences

[0154] Now refer to Figures 21 to 22 , a front view of the control panel 160 showing setting options is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 21 It is shown that the control panel 160 displays a setting user interface with a QR code, which can be accessed by a mobile user device (e.g., the mobile user device 294). In an exemplary embodiment, the user scans the QR code with their mobile phone camera and accesses a setting web page communicatively coupled to the network 290. Figure 22An alternative settings user interface displayed on the control panel 160 is shown. In this embodiment, the user can use the displayed settings URL to access a web page. The user can additionally couple the controller 260 to Ethernet or Wi-Fi via the control panel 160. The settings user interface may include a list of servers available on the home network (e.g., via a router) to which the shower controller 260 is connected. The list of servers displayed in the settings user interface can be adjusted via a web interface or using settings configuration options.

[0155] Reference Figure 23 , an overview web page 402 of the embedded shower system that can be displayed on the mobile user device 294 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. As Figure 12 shown, this page can be used for initial shower setup. The user can also access the embedded settings web page to obtain a complete list of settings that can be changed. For example, the shower controller 260 may include a wireless transceiver (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, etc.) capable of wireless communication with an external data source. In some embodiments, the shower controller 260 includes a Bluetooth-enabled transceiver. The user can pair a Bluetooth-enabled device (e.g., a smart phone, a portable music player, etc.) with the Bluetooth-enabled transceiver by adding the Bluetooth-enabled device on the embedded settings page to receive audio data from a Bluetooth audio source. The overview web page 402 of the shower system can be used to access various other settings associated with the shower system. For example, the user can view the connection status of the digital mixing valve (e.g., mixing valve 276), the connection status of the control panel 160, and the shower controller 260. The overview web page 402 of the shower system is shown to include a widget for accessing a digital button for remotely turning on or off the shower stall 100. The digital button is shown in more detail in Figure 38 .

[0156] Reference Figures 24 to 26 , an initial settings user interface on the embedded settings web page 404 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 24 A preferred unit user interface that can be selected on the embedded settings web page or automatically displayed during initial setup is shown. On this user interface, the user is prompted to select their preferred unit system (e.g., the imperial unit system or the metric unit system). When temperature and flow rate are displayed, the selected unit system will be used on the control panel 160. Figure 25Shows an energy-saving mode user interface that can be selected on the embedded settings web page or automatically displayed during initial setup. The user is prompted to select whether they are located in a low water flow area. For example, whether the user lives in a place where there are regulatory restrictions on the maximum flow rate of various water delivery devices. If this is the case, the user's system can automatically adjust the output settings to operate in the most water-saving manner. According to an exemplary embodiment, this setting can be mandatory or changeable. Figure 26 Shows a shower default settings user interface. In this user interface, the user can select whether they want to turn on or off the preheating mode and how long the preheating mode should be able to run (e.g., 5 minutes). The user can also select whether to enable or disable the flow control that is an option displayed on the control panel 160. The user can additionally select the maximum shower duration and the maximum water temperature.

[0157] Now refer to Figure 27 , according to an exemplary embodiment, shows a user interface 406 on the mobile user device 294. This page displays the favorite preset shower experiences. For example, the user can select the pre-programmed "Relaxing" shower experience and the recorded experience (e.g., "Adam Bath") as the favorite preset shower experiences. According to some embodiments, the controller 260 can create preset favorite shower experience options and edit them on the control panel 160. In other embodiments, the user can create and edit the preset favorite shower experiences on the mobile application. The preset favorite shower experiences can be activated using the control panel 160, the mobile application, or by voice commands to the mobile device or the home automation system.

[0158] Now refer to Figure 28 , according to an exemplary embodiment, shows a user interface 408 of the user's selected favorite shower experience. In this embodiment, the user has selected the "Relaxing" experience from their preset favorite shower experience options. The user interface 408 is shown to include details about the temperature and flow rate associated with the selected shower experience. Additionally, the user interface 408 can detail which water delivery devices 278 are activated by the shower controller 260 during the selected shower experience. This GUI can be displayed on the mobile device 294 or on the control panel 160. The user can start or stop the selected experience on the GUI shown in Figure 27 and Figure 28 .

[0159] Now refer to Figure 29 and Figure 30, user interfaces 410, 412 for pre-programmed shower experiences are shown according to an exemplary embodiment. These shower experiences utilize various combinations of water outlets, steam, aromatherapy, light, and sound. Depending on the number of water outlets and the specific shower configuration, certain pre-programmed shower experiences can be recommended on the user interface 410. For example, if a shower stall has three mixing valves, two shower outlets, and one steam outlet, experiences that utilize only two or fewer shower outlets can be recommended. Figure 30 The user interface 412 shown in Figure 29 displays the details of the shower experience selected by the user from the menu shown on the user interface 410. The user can select to start the shower experience they have chosen on the page shown in Figure 30 , or can exit and select a different shower experience.

[0160] Now refer to Figures 31A to 31B and Figure 32 , an Over the Air update user interface shown on the control panel 160 and a mobile user device 294 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The user can select to update their shower system on the mobile user device 294 as shown in Figure 31A and Figure 31B . As shown in Figure 31B , an update may be required. In this case, the shower system can automatically update the firmware on the shower controller 260 according to the required update. Alternatively, the user can be prompted to perform the required update on the control panel 160 and / or the mobile user device 294. As shown in Figure 31A , the update can be optional. In this case, the user can be prompted for update options for their shower system on the control panel 160 or on the user interface 414 shown on the mobile user device 294. Figure 32 shows the update user interface shown on the control panel 160. In this embodiment, the user can select to directly update their system on the control panel 160. When the shower control system is updated, the user interface shown in Figure 32 can be displayed.

[0161] Now refer to Figure 33 , a USB update user interface on the control panel 160 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. In this embodiment, the user can directly insert a USB containing the updated firmware file into the controller 260. The controller 260 can detect the USB drive, extract the firmware, and update the shower system accordingly. In other embodiments, when the controller 260 detects a USB drive, the user can be prompted on the control panel 160 to select what files the controller 260 should extract.

[0162] Now refer to Figure 34, a mobile application connection user interface displayed on the control panel 160 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. In the exemplary embodiment, the user can select the shower setting button 166 on the default home screen of the control panel 160. On the settings menu, the user can select to connect the shower controller 260 and an application corresponding to their shower system (e.g., Kohler Cloudscape). Once the controller 260 is connected to the mobile application, the controller can receive user inputs made on the mobile application via the mobile user device 294.

[0163] Now refer to Figures 35 to 38 , a user interface that can be accessed on a paired mobile application is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 35 The user interface 416 is shown, which includes details related to the controller 260, including the firmware version, installation date, and connected products. The user interface 416 can also display a notification of a new firmware update available when the user accesses it. Figure 36 The device settings user page 418 on which the user can view their water usage according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. Water usage (i.e., water consumption) can include the volume of water used / assigned during the shower experience, the average flow rate of water during the shower experience, the duration of use, and / or the energy consumption value. The user can also change what settings are displayed on the control panel 160 by adjusting the settings on the controller settings user interface 418. As Figure 37 shown, the mobile application can further include a diagnostic error user interface 420 that logs system errors to a log. The system error log user interface 420 allows the user to report errors to the service provider. These reports can inform future firmware updates for the shower control system.

[0164] Now refer to Figure 38 , a digital remote control button user interface 422 that can be integrated with the mobile application and accessed by the mobile user device 294 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. According to the exemplary embodiment, the user can use the remote buttons on the user interface 422 to start or stop the shower experience they have selected. The shower control system 200 can include a wireless transceiver (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, etc.) capable of wireless communication with an external data source. In some embodiments, the shower control system 200 includes a Bluetooth-enabled transceiver. The user can pair a Bluetooth-enabled device (e.g., a smart phone, a portable music player, etc.) with the Bluetooth-enabled transceiver to receive on / off data from the associated remote button user interface 422.

[0165] Now refer to Figure 39 and Figures 40A to 40B, a water usage report user interface displayed on the control panel 160 and the mobile user device 294 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. According to an exemplary embodiment, water usage and shower duration can be displayed on the control panel 160 at the end of each shower. In other embodiments, the user can access daily, weekly, monthly, and annual water usage reports on the control panel 160 in the settings menu. The user can also access the user interface 424, which includes daily, weekly, monthly, and annual water usage on an application accessed from the mobile user device 294. As Figure 40A shown, the user interface 424 can show average water usage by week, month, or year. In some examples, the user interface 424 includes average water flow rates by week, month, year, and / or all time. As Figure 40B shown, the user interface 424 can additionally or alternatively show average shower duration or a duration range. In some embodiments, the user interface 424 can include the daily, weekly, monthly, and annual energy consumption of the shower control system 200.

[0166] Now refer to Figures 41A to 41B , a graphical representation of a shower experience controlled by the controller 260 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. In the exemplary embodiment, the experience can use only one outlet and can use only water (instead of steam, aromatherapy, etc.). In this way, the shower experience is suitable for low-flow areas. In Figure 41A and Figure 41B the graphs shown, each experience using only an overhead showerhead is shown. The x-axis of these graphs represents time, while the y-axis represents temperature. The experience progresses as the temperature changes to reach the temperature setpoint at a given time point. The experience can have multiple stages, with corresponding temperature setpoints. For example, the wake-up experience includes three temperature setpoints, while the cooling experience includes six temperature setpoints. Each stage has a predetermined duration including different combinations of water output and output water temperature.

[0167] Valve

[0168] Now refer to Figures 42 to 45 , perspective views of various mixing valves 276 are shown according to an exemplary embodiment. These mixing valves can be implemented into the Figures 1 to 8 and Figures 12 to 21 shower systems discussed. Figures 42 to 45 The mixing valves shown in Figure 45 can be installed into the shower system individually or in combination. For example, two Figure 45 shown six-outlet mixing valves can be installed to create a shower system with twelve or more water delivery devices.

[0169] As described above, the mixing valve 276 can be communicatively coupled to the shower controller 260. For example, the mixing valve 276 can receive control signals from the controller 260 that cause the mixing valve 276 to variably open or close to achieve a target water temperature and / or flow rate. In some embodiments, the mixing valve 276 includes temperature sensors and / or flow rate sensors configured to measure the temperature and / or flow rate of the water dispensed by each of the mixing valves 276. In other embodiments, the sensors can be integrated with the shower outlets 121 - 129 or otherwise located within the shower control system 200. The sensors can provide feedback to the controller 260 regarding the temperature and / or flow rate of the water dispensed by each of the mixing valves 276. The shower controller 260 can use the feedback from the sensors in conjunction with one or more temperature set points and / or flow rate set points to determine appropriate control signals for each of the mixing valves 276. Communication between the mixing valve 276, the controller 260, and the sensors can be wired or wireless and can use any of a variety of communication protocols.

[0170] It should be noted that the construction and arrangement of the shower control system and its devices shown in the various exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments are described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily understand that many modifications (e.g., changes in the dimensions, sizes, structures, shapes and proportions, parameter values, installation arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc. of the various elements) can be made without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. For example, elements shown as integrally formed can be composed of multiple parts or elements, the positions of the elements can be reversed or otherwise changed, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions can be altered or varied. The order or sequence of any process or method steps can be changed or reordered according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, variations, and omissions can be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0171] As used herein, the terms “about,” “approximately,” “substantially,” and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning consistent with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. Those skilled in the art who review this disclosure should understand that these terms are intended to allow description of some of the features being described and claimed without restricting the scope of these features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Thus, these terms should be interpreted to indicate that non - substantial or insignificant modifications or alterations to the subject matter being described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the invention recited in the appended claims.

[0172] It should be noted that the term "exemplary" used herein to describe various embodiments is intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representatives, and / or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such terms are not intended to imply that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or exceptional examples).

[0173] As used herein, the terms "coupled", "connected", etc. refer to two components being directly or indirectly joined together. Such joining may be fixed (e.g., permanent) or movable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining may be implemented by the two components, or the two components and any additional intermediate components, forming a single integral body with each other, or by the two components, or the two components and any additional intermediate components, being attached to each other.

[0174] References herein to the position of elements (e.g., "top", "bottom", "above", "below", etc.) are only used to describe the orientation of various elements in the figures. It should be noted that, according to other exemplary embodiments, the orientation of various elements may be different, and such variations are intended to be covered by the present disclosure.

[0175] The present disclosure contemplates methods, systems, and program products on a memory and other machine-readable media for accomplishing various operations. Embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented using existing computer processors, or by a special computer processor incorporated for this or other purposes into an appropriate system, or by a hard-wired system. Embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure include a program product or memory that includes a machine-readable medium for carrying or having stored thereon machine-executable instructions or data structures. Such machine-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by a general or special purpose computer or other machine with a processor. By way of example, such machine-readable media can include RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store the desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a general or special purpose computer or other machine with a processor. Combinations of the foregoing are also included within the scope of machine-readable media. Machine-executable instructions include, for example, instructions and data that cause a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or special purpose processor to perform a certain function or a set of functions.

[0176] Although the accompanying drawings may show a specific order of method steps, the order of the steps may be different from that depicted. Also, two or more steps may be performed simultaneously or partially simultaneously. Such variations will depend on the selected software and hardware systems as well as the designer's choices. All such variations are within the scope of the present disclosure. Similarly, software implementations can also accomplish various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps, and decision steps through standard programming techniques, rule-based logic, and other logics.

Claims

1. A shower system, comprising: A water subsystem, the water subsystem including one or more electronic valves configured to control the flow rate and temperature of water dispensed from one or more shower outlets within a shower enclosure; And A controller, the controller being in communication with the water subsystem and configured to: Record a sequence of user inputs to regulate the operation of the water subsystem and simultaneously operate the water subsystem according to the sequence of user inputs to dispense water from the one or more shower outlets; Display new shower experience options corresponding to the sequence of user inputs on a user display device; And In response to a user selecting the new shower experience option corresponding to the sequence of user inputs, operate the water subsystem according to the sequence of user inputs.

2. The shower system according to claim 1, wherein the sequence of user inputs on the controller includes at least one of the following: (a) a user input for changing the temperature of water dispensed from the one or more shower outlets, (b) a user input for changing the flow rate of water dispensed from the one or more shower outlets, or (c) a user input for activating or deactivating at least one of the one or more shower outlets.

3. The shower system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to calculate the water consumption while operating the water subsystem according to the sequence of user inputs and display the water consumption when the sequence of user inputs is completed.

4. The shower system according to claim 1, wherein the user inputs in the sequence of user inputs cause the controller to enter a rain cascade mode, the rain cascade mode including: Operating an overhead shower head to fill a water reservoir; And Emptying the water reservoir in response to detecting that the water reservoir is full or according to a preset time increment.

5. The shower system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to record multiple sequences of user inputs and display multiple shower experience options, each of the shower experience options corresponding to a unique, recorded sequence of user inputs.

6. The shower system according to claim 1, further comprising a control panel communicatively coupled to the controller, wherein the control panel is configured to display the new shower experience options corresponding to the sequence of user inputs.

7. The shower system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to transmit the sequence of the user input to a mobile application communicatively coupled to the controller, wherein, The mobile application is configured to display the new shower experience options corresponding to the sequence of user inputs.

8. The shower system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to perform a flushing method, the flushing method including: Operating the water subsystem to dispense water from the one or more shower outlets until the water reaches a temperature set point; When the water reaches the temperature set point, operating the water subsystem to pause dispensing water from the one or more shower outlets; And In response to a user input, operating the water subsystem to dispense water from the one or more shower outlets at the temperature set point.

9. The shower system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to: Display a prompt for user input indicating whether the shower system is in a low-flow area; and In response to receiving the user input indicating that the shower system is in a low-flow area, operate the water subsystem to limit the maximum flow rate of water dispensed from the one or more shower outlets.

10. The shower system according to claim 1, further comprising: An audio subsystem configured to output audio from one or more audio output devices within the shower enclosure; And A lighting subsystem configured to change the lighting output of lighting devices within the shower enclosure; Wherein the controller is configured to: Record a second sequence of user input to adjust the operation of the audio subsystem or the operation of the lighting subsystem in combination with the new shower experience option; And In response to the user selecting the new shower experience option, operate the water subsystem, the audio subsystem, and the lighting subsystem according to the sequence of user input used to adjust the operation of the water subsystem and the second sequence of input used to adjust the operation of the audio subsystem or the operation of the lighting subsystem.

11. The shower system according to claim 10, wherein the controller is configured to operate the water subsystem, the audio subsystem, and the lighting subsystem simultaneously and in coordination with each other, thereby providing a synchronized shower experience by concurrently executing both the sequence of user input used to adjust the operation of the water subsystem and the second sequence of input used to adjust the operation of the audio subsystem or the operation of the lighting subsystem.

12. A shower system, comprising: A water subsystem including one or more solenoid valves configured to control the flow rate of water dispensed from a plurality of shower outlets within a shower enclosure; One or more sensors configured to acquire data indicative of the flow rate of water dispensed from the plurality of shower outlets; And A controller in communication with the water subsystem and the one or more sensors, the controller configured to: Determine the maximum flow rate for each of the plurality of shower outlets based on the flow rate data; Convert a plurality of stored percentage flow rate values for the plurality of shower outlets to a plurality of absolute flow rate values for the plurality of shower outlets by scaling the percentage flow rate values to the maximum flow rate; and When executing a stored shower experience, operate the plurality of shower outlets according to the absolute flow rate values.

13. The shower system according to claim 12, wherein the one or more solenoid valves are configured to independently adjust the flow rate for each of the plurality of shower outlets, thereby enabling the flow rate through each shower outlet to be individually controlled.

14. The shower system according to claim 12, wherein the controller is configured to: Receive user input to reduce the flow rate of water dispensed from a first shower outlet of the plurality of shower outlets; and Allocate the unused flow capacity from the first shower outlet to the remaining shower outlets of the plurality of shower outlets.

15. A shower control system, comprising: A control panel configured to receive user input regarding the operation of one or more components of a shower system; A plurality of sensors configured to measure operational data associated with the one or more components of the shower system; and A cloud integration controller communicatively coupled to the plurality of sensors, wherein the cloud integration controller is configured to: Receive the operational data from the plurality of sensors; Receive the user input from the control panel; Transmit the user input and the operational data to a remote computing system via a network; Receive error information from the remote computing system; And Cause a display of the shower system to present the error information.

16. The shower control system according to claim 15, wherein the remote computing system is configured to: Detect an error based on the operational data from the plurality of sensors and the user input from the control panel; and Identify a component among the one or more components of the shower system associated with the error.

17. The shower control system according to claim 16, wherein the remote computing system is configured to generate one or more troubleshooting steps for resolving the error.

18. The shower control system according to claim 17, wherein the cloud integration controller is configured to receive from the remote computing system the error information indicating the detected error, the component associated with the error, and the one or more troubleshooting steps for resolving the error.

19. The shower control system according to claim 15, wherein the control panel includes a user display, and the cloud integration controller is configured to cause the user display of the control panel to display the error information.

20. The shower control system according to claim 15, wherein the operational data includes at least one of the following: (a) water flow rate, (b) water temperature, or (c) connection status.

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