Recirculating shower system

Abstract

A recirculating shower system is provided that can supply recirculating water to one or more showerheads to conserve water resources and reduce water pollution during use. The recirculated water may be mixed with clear water to maintain a comfortable condition for water ejected through one or more sprayers. The recirculation shower system may include a flow control valve for controlling a supply of clear water, and a recirculation module for controlling a supply of a recirculated clear water mixture. The recirculation module may include one or more inline cleaning devices that are capable of generating cleaning water and may distribute cleaning water throughout the recirculation water piping system for intermittent or periodic cleaning.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 564,194, filed on March 12, 2024, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention generally relates to a shower system, and more particularly to a water recirculating shower system. Background Art

[0004] Existing shower systems and other similar water distribution mechanisms can be installed in private or domestic settings, such as homes and apartments, and / or in public spaces, such as gyms, hotels, and rest areas. Shower systems can consume significant amounts of water during use. In some cases, it is desirable to reduce the amount of fresh water consumed and wastewater generated per use. This reduction can help conserve water resources and reduce water pollution. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In order to solve the above problems, as one embodiment of the present invention, the present invention provides a recirculating shower system, including: a first nozzle and a second nozzle, each of the first nozzle and the second nozzle is used to spray water; a shower base, used to collect water sprayed by the first nozzle and the second nozzle; a water collection tank, used to receive water from the shower base; a flow control valve, used to receive clean water, the flow control valve is connected to a first clean water pipeline and a second clean water pipeline, the first clean water pipeline transports clean water to the first nozzle; and a recirculation module, receiving recirculated water from the sump through a first recirculating water pipeline, the recirculation module is connected to a second recirculating water pipeline, and the second recirculating water pipeline transports recirculated water from the recirculation module to the second nozzle.

[0006] As another example of the present invention, the present invention provides a piping system for a recirculating shower system, the piping system including: a flow control valve for receiving clean water, the flow control valve being connected to a first clean water line and a second clean water line, the first clean water line delivering clean water to a spray head of the recirculating shower system, the spray head spraying clean water onto a shower base of the recirculating shower system; a recirculation module connected to the first recirculating water line receiving recirculated water from a sump located below the shower base, the recirculated water in the first recirculating water line being mixed with the clean water in the second clean water line to produce a recirculated clean water mixture, the recirculation module also being connected to the second recirculating water line delivering the recirculated clean water mixture to the recirculating shower system; a recirculation pump operable to move the recirculated clean water mixture through the second recirculating water line.

[0007] As another example of the present invention, the present invention provides a recirculation module for a recirculating shower system, comprising: a recirculation housing having a first inlet for receiving fresh water and a second inlet for receiving recirculated water from the recirculating shower system; a manifold disposed in the recirculation housing for combining fresh water and recirculated water into a recirculated fresh water mixture; and a recirculation pump located downstream of the manifold, disposed in the recirculation housing and operable to move the recirculated fresh water mixture toward an outlet of the recirculation housing. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The present disclosure will be more fully understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements:

[0009] Figure 1 An example of a recirculating shower system is shown.

[0010] Figure 2 Another example of a recirculating shower system is shown, including a piping system.

[0011] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the upper arm of an example slide bar is shown, illustrating the internal conduit.

[0012] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of an example three-way manifold is shown with a vacuum breaker provided therein.

[0013] Figure 5 One example of a shower base including an access point for drainage is shown.

[0014] Figure 6 One example of a portion of a shower base is shown with the top cover removed to reveal the recess in the shower base.

[0015] Figure 7 One example of a portion of a shower base is shown with the top cover removed to reveal the recess in the shower base and the sump cover removed to reveal the sump in the recess.

[0016] Figure 8 A top view showing one example of a sump.

[0017] Figure 9 A cross-sectional view showing one example of a sump.

[0018] Figure 10 An example of a recirculation module is shown, showing the internal components of the device.

[0019] Figure 11 Schematic diagram showing one example of a recirculating shower system.

[0020] Figure 12 A schematic diagram of a recirculating shower system is shown, illustrating the flow paths in an example flushing mode of operation.

[0021] Figure 13 A schematic diagram of a recirculating shower system is shown, illustrating flow paths in an example pump pre-prime mode of operation.

[0022] Figure 14 A schematic diagram of a recirculating shower system is shown, illustrating flow paths in an example water recirculation mode of operation.

[0023] Figure 15 A schematic diagram of a recirculating shower system is shown, illustrating flow paths in an example water recirculation mode of operation.

[0024] Figure 16 A schematic diagram of a recirculating shower system is shown, illustrating the flow paths in an example shut-off operation.

[0025] Figure 17 A schematic diagram of a recirculating shower system is shown, illustrating the flow paths in an example cleaning mode of operation.

[0026] Figure 18 A schematic diagram of a recirculating shower system is shown, illustrating flow paths in another example cleaning mode of operation.

[0027] Figure 19 A schematic diagram illustrating an example recirculating shower system is shown.

[0028] Like reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to refer to like parts. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] The present disclosure relates to a recirculating shower system that recycles or otherwise recycles water distributed within the system for continued use or reuse, thereby helping to reduce contamination and wasteful consumption of pure, clean water. The recirculating shower system may include a showerhead configured to spray water into a shower space and a sump configured to collect the water sprayed into the shower space. The water accumulated in the sump may be circulated to a recirculation module (skid), which controls the supply of recirculated water through the recirculating shower system. A flow control valve may receive clean water and control the supply of clean water to the recirculation module and at least one showerhead. The clean water supplied to the recirculation module via the flow control valve may be used to recycle the recirculated water, thereby producing a recycled clean water mixture that can improve the conditions for using the recirculated water based on the user's comfort and preferences. The recirculation module may include and / or be coupled with a recirculation pump that transfers the recycled clean water mixture to at least one showerhead. In some examples, the recirculation pump may operate in conjunction with a sump pump that transfers the recirculated water to the recirculation module. The present disclosure provides additional features and advantages that may be realized through the following detailed description.

[0030] Before turning to the drawings showing example systems involving recirculating shower systems, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details or methods set forth in the specification or illustrated in the drawings. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for descriptive purposes only and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0031] Figure 1 An example of a recirculating shower system 100 is shown. Recirculating shower system 100 may include one or more water spray outlets or spray heads 102, 104 configured to spray water into a shower space 106. Shower space 106 may also be referred to as a shower stall. The spray heads may include an overhead spray head 102, a handheld spray head 104, or a combination thereof to at least partially spray water into shower space 106. In certain examples, one or more overhead spray heads 102, one or more handheld spray heads 104, or a combination of one or more of each may be included. The overhead spray heads 102 and handheld spray heads 104 are exemplary, and shower system 100 may include additional or alternative water spray outlets, such as body sprays, rain shower panels, etc., in any combination. The spray heads described herein may also be referred to as shower heads. Spray heads 102, 104 may also be interchangeably referred to as first and second spray heads. Throughout this description, the terms "first" and "second" are used interchangeably for convenience only and are not limited to reference to only two such components.

[0032] Each showerhead 102, 104 can be configured to deliver clean or "purified" water, recirculated water, or a combination of recirculated and clean water. The overhead showerhead 102 can be configured to deliver clean and / or recirculated water independently of the handheld showerhead 104. For example, the overhead showerhead 102 can deliver recirculated water or a combination of recirculated and clean water while the handheld showerhead 104 delivers clean water, or vice versa.

[0033] The overhead spray head 102 can be mounted to a support structure near the shower space 106 via a slide bar 108. For example, the slide bar 108 can mount the overhead spray head 102 to a sidewall, ceiling, or other support structure. An upper arm 110 can be connected between the slide bar 108 and the overhead spray head 102. The upper arm 110 can be integrated with or coupled to the slide bar 108. The upper arm 110 can position the overhead spray head 102 at a distance from the slide bar 108, for example, laterally and / or vertically. The overhead spray head 102 can also be mounted directly to the support structure, for example, directly to a sidewall or ceiling. In some examples, the position of the overhead spray head 102 relative to the support structure is adjustable. For example, the overhead spray head 102 can be raised and / or lowered to adjust its vertical height or position. Additionally or alternatively, the overhead spray head 102 can be rotated or otherwise moved to adjust its angular orientation relative to the support structure.

[0034] The handheld showerhead 104 can be mounted to the slide bar 108 via a bracket 112. A flexible hose 114 can also be connected between the handheld showerhead 104 and the slide bar 108. The bracket 112 can move or slide vertically along the slide bar 108 to adjust the height of the handheld showerhead 104. Additionally or alternatively, the bracket 112 can rotate relative to the slide bar 108 to adjust the angular orientation of the handheld showerhead 104 relative to the slide bar. The handheld showerhead 104 can be removed or disassembled from the bracket 112 so that a user can hold the handheld showerhead and manually direct the water output from the handheld showerhead. The flexible hose 114 can provide slack between the handheld showerhead 104 and the slide bar 108 to allow the handheld showerhead to move widely within the shower space 106 while outputting water.

[0035] Shower system 100 may include a user interface 116 mounted on a support structure near shower space 106. For example, user interface 116 may be mounted on a sidewall. User interface 116 may include a user input device 118 for receiving user input related to the output of showerheads 102 and 104. User input device 118 may include a manual input device, such as a control button, knob, dial, switch, trigger, or any other type of manual input device. Additionally or alternatively, user input device 118 may include a touchscreen display, such as an LED or LCD display, configured to receive user input. User input device 118 may allow a user to control the flow rate, pressure, temperature, and / or other conditions of the water output through showerheads 102 and 104. Additionally or alternatively, user input device 118 may allow a user to control whether water is output through overhead showerhead 102, handheld showerhead 104, or a combination of both. Additionally or alternatively, user input device 118 may allow a user to control whether fresh water, recirculated water, or a combination of both is output through overhead showerhead 102 and / or handheld showerhead 104. In various examples, the user interface 116 can include controls that allow the user to control water temperature, water flow, spray type, switch between fresh water or recirculated water output, and the like. Additionally or alternatively, the user interface 116 can allow the user to initiate, switch, terminate, or cycle through different operating modes of the shower system 100, including the operating modes described herein. The user input devices 118 can be dedicated to specific control functions. For example, one or more user input devices 118 can be dedicated to controlling water temperature, water flow, water pressure, spray type, fresh water output, recirculated water output, a combination of fresh and recirculated water output, the operating mode of the shower system, and the like. The controls enabled by the user interface 116 described herein are merely illustrative and are not an exhaustive list of functionality. The user interface 116 can be operated to control any desired function of the shower system 100, including the functions described elsewhere herein.

[0036] Reference Figure 2Shower system 100 may include a piping system 120 configured to control the supply of water to showerheads 102, 104. Piping system 120 may be located substantially or completely behind a wall or partition, isolated from shower space 106. One or more lines or conduits of piping system 120 may be fluidly connected to showerheads 102, 104 through the wall or partition. Piping system 120 may be controlled via user interface 116. For example, user interface 116 may allow a user to control piping system 120 to supply clean water, recirculated water, or a combination of recirculated and clean water to showerheads 102, 104. Piping system 120 may also supply clean water, recirculated water, or a combination of recirculated and clean water to showerheads 102, 104, respectively. For example, piping system 120 may supply recirculated water or a combination of recirculated and clean water to overhead showerhead 102 while simultaneously supplying clean water to hand showerhead 104, or vice versa. Recirculated water supplied through the piping system 120 may be collected beneath a shower base 122 within the shower space 106 .

[0037] Plumbing system 120 may include a flow control valve 124 configured as a mixing valve. Flow control valve 124 includes two inlet connections 126 and 128, which can be connected to a hot water source and a cold water source, respectively. The hot water source and the cold water source may be part of the building or structure where shower system 100 is installed. Additionally or alternatively, shower system 100 may have dedicated hot and / or cold water sources. Inlet connections 126 and 128 may also be referred to as inlets. Flow control valve 124 may receive hot and cold water through the inlets defined by inlet connections 126 and 128. The hot and cold water may mix within the valve chamber of flow control valve 124 and exit the flow control valve through outlet connections 130 and 132. Outlet connections 130 and 132 may also be referred to as outlets. Flow control valve 124 may include a metering device, such as a metering orifice or metering valve, to control the flow of hot and / or cold water entering the valve chamber. The metering device may control the temperature, pressure, and / or flow rate of the water exiting flow control valve 124 through outlet connections 130 and 132. The temperature, pressure, and / or flow rate of the water exiting the flow control valve 124 through the at least one outlet connection 130, 132 can be set by a user via the user interface 116. In some examples, the temperature, pressure, and / or flow rate of the water exiting the flow control valve 124 through the at least one outlet connection 130, 132 can be set according to predefined set points. For example, when used for mixing with recirculated water in the piping system 120, the water exiting through one of the outlet connections 130, 132 can have a predefined temperature, pressure, and / or flow rate.

[0038] The flow control valve 124 can also be configured as a diverter valve so that water can flow out of the flow control valve through one or both outlet connections 130, 132. For example, the flow control valve 124 can be configured to divert substantially all of the water flowing out of the flow control valve to either outlet connection 130 or outlet connection 132. Additionally or alternatively, the flow control valve 124 can be configured to divert a portion of the water flowing out of the flow control valve to each outlet connection 130, 132. In examples where water flows out of the flow control valve 124 through both outlet connections 130, 132, the water at both outlets can have similar conditions, such as similar temperature, pressure, and / or flow rate. In certain examples, the flow control valve 124 can be operated to divert water having different conditions, such as different temperatures, pressures, and / or flow rates, between the two outlet connections 130, 132. For example, the water flowing out of the outlet connection 130 can have a higher or lower temperature, pressure, and / or flow rate than the water flowing out of the outlet connection 132. Likewise, the operation of the flow control valve 124 can be controlled via the user interface 116 to allow the user to control which outlet connectors 130, 132 the water flows through, and in some examples, the conditions of the water flowing out of the outlet connectors. Outlet connector 130 can be referred to as a first outlet connector, and outlet connector 132 can be referred to as a second outlet connector.

[0039] In some examples, the water entering the flow control valve 124 through the inlet connections 124, 126 and exiting through the outlet connections 130, 132 may include clean water. Thus, the flow control valve 124 is operable to provide clean water under desired conditions (e.g., a desired temperature, pressure, and / or flow rate) to the piping system 120 and the sprinkler heads 102, 104 connected to the piping system.

[0040] The piping system 120 can include a hand shower line 134 connected to the first outlet connection 130. The hand shower line 134 can be fluidly connected to the hose 114 so that water flowing from the flow control valve 124 through the first outlet connection is directed to the hand shower 104.

[0041] The piping system 120 may include a fresh water line 136 connected to the second outlet connection 132. The fresh water line 136 may fluidly connect the second outlet connection 132 to a recirculation module 138. The hand shower line 134 and the fresh water line 136 may be interchangeably referred to as first and second fresh water lines. The recirculation module 138 may also be referred to as a recirculation controller. The recirculation module 138 may be fluidly connected to a recirculation water line 140. The recirculation water line 140 may provide recirculated water supplied from below the shower base 122 to the recirculation module 138. The overhead shower line 142 may fluidly connect the recirculation module 138 to the overhead shower 102. The recirculation water line 140 and the overhead shower line 142 may be interchangeably referred to as first and second recirculation water lines.

[0042] Fresh water recirculation line 136 can supply fresh water from flow control valve 124 to recirculation module 138. Recirculation water line 140 can supply recirculated water to recirculation module 138. The recirculated water can be mixed with fresh water in recirculation module 138, and the mixture of fresh water and recirculated water can be supplied to overhead showerhead 102 via line 142. In some examples, recirculation module 138 can also be operable to supply fresh water only to overhead showerhead 102 via line 142. In some examples, recirculation module 138 can also be operable to supply fresh water to overhead showerhead 102 via line 142. In some examples, recirculation module 138 can also be operable to supply fresh water to the bottom of shower base 122 via line 140.

[0043] The user interface 116 can be in electrical communication with each of the flow control valve 124 and the recirculation module 138 to facilitate control and operation of the piping system 120. For example, the user interface 116 can enable a user to control the piping system 120 to supply fresh water to the handheld showerhead 104 via the flow control valve 124. Additionally or alternatively, the user interface 116 can enable a user to control the piping system 120 to supply fresh water, recirculated water, or a combination thereof to the overhead showerhead 102 via the recirculation module 138. Electrical communication between the user interface 116, the flow control valve 124, and the recirculation module 138 can be established via a wired connection and / or a wireless connection (e.g., via Wi-Fi, Li-Fi, Bluetooth, a cellular network, or other wireless interface). In some examples, the piping system 120 can include one or more controllers operable to control the flow control valve 124 and the recirculation module 138 in response to data or signals received from the user interface 116. These controllers can be centralized and / or decentralized. In some examples, dedicated controllers may be included for flow control valve 124 and / or recirculation module 138 .

[0044] The shower system 100 can include at least one power source 144 for powering components of the plumbing system 120, such as the user interface 116, the flow control valve 124, and / or the recirculation module 138, including any motors, metering devices, sensors, pumps, controllers, and other electrically powered components thereof. The power source 144 can include, for example, a direct current (DC) power source. In some examples, a dedicated power source 144 can be included for the flow control valve 124 and / or the recirculation module 138. In some examples, the user interface 116 can be powered by at least one power source 144 dedicated to the flow control valve 124 or the recirculation module 138. In some examples, a dedicated power source can be provided for the user interface 116.

[0045] refer to Figure 3A fluid connection between the overhead sprinkler line 142 and the overhead sprinkler 102 can be established via an upper arm 110 coupled to the slide bar 108. An internal conduit 146 can be disposed within the upper arm 110 and fluidly coupled to an inlet fitting 148 and an outlet fitting 150 of the upper arm 110. The inlet fitting 148 can be disposed at a first or lower end of the upper arm 110, proximate the slide bar 108. The overhead sprinkler line 142 can be coupled to the inlet fitting 148 of the upper arm 110, such that water flowing through the line 142 enters the internal conduit 146. The outlet fitting 150 can be disposed at a second or upper end of the upper arm 110, opposite the slide bar 108. Water flowing through the internal conduit 146 via the overhead sprinkler line 142 can exit the upper arm 110 through the outlet fitting 150 and be sprayed or outputted through the overhead sprinkler 102.

[0046] refer to Figure 4 Water flowing from the two outlets 130 and 132 of the flow control valve 124 through lines 134 and 136, respectively, can enter a three-way manifold 152 mounted on the slide bar 108. The hand shower line 134 can be fluidly connected to a first port fitting 154 of the manifold 152. The first port fitting 154 can fluidly connect the hand shower line 134 to a slide bar insert 156 that passes through a vacuum breaker housing 158 of the manifold 152 and extends into the slide bar 108. The first port fitting 154 and the slide bar insert 156 can direct water flowing from the first outlet 130 of the flow control valve 124 through the hand shower line 134 toward the flexible hose 114 and the hand shower 104. The flexible hose 114 can be connected to the outlet of the slide bar insert 156.

[0047] A first portion of the clean water line 136 extending from the flow control valve 124 can be fluidly connected to a second port fitting 160 of the manifold 152. The second port fitting 160 can fluidly connect the clean water line 136 to a vacuum breaker insert 162 that extends through the vacuum breaker housing 158. A vacuum breaker 164 or other backflow prevention or anti-siphon device can be disposed within the vacuum breaker insert 162. A third port fitting 166 can be connected to the vacuum breaker insert 162 and provide an outlet for water flowing through the vacuum breaker insert 162 and the vacuum breaker 164. A second portion of the clean water line 136 extending to the recirculation module 138 can be fluidly connected to the third port fitting 166 and receive water flowing from the vacuum breaker insert 162. Water flowing from the second outlet 132 of the flow control valve 124 may flow through a first portion of the clean water line 136, into the vacuum breaker insert 162, through the vacuum breaker 164, and then into a second portion of the clean water line 136 toward the recirculation module 138. The vacuum breaker 164 or other suitable device may prevent water from flowing back or back-siphoning from the recirculation module 138 into the flow control valve 124. The vacuum breaker 164 may be referred to as an anti-backflow and / or anti-back-siphon device.

[0048] refer to Figure 5 The shower base 122 can collect water sprayed into the shower space 106 by the showerheads 102, 104. The shower base 122 can include a sloped, angled, skewed, or tilted bottom surface so that the natural flow of water can be concentrated or directed toward one or more access points 168. The access point 168 can be located at or near an end or edge of the shower base 122, which defines the lowest or bottommost portion of the shower base 122. The access point 168 can be integrated into the shower base 122 or otherwise defined in the shower base 122. In some examples, the access point 168 can include a continuous slot or lateral opening extending along the width of the shower base 122. In some examples, the access point 168 can include discretely positioned openings, holes, or the like.

[0049] The shower base 122 may include at least one top cover 170. The top cover 170 may be removably attached or mounted relative to a main body portion 172 of the shower base 122. The main body portion 172 of the shower base 122 may define a bottom surface that is inclined, angled, skewed, or canted toward the top cover 170. The top cover 170 may at least partially define one or more access points 168. When the top cover 170 is attached or mounted relative to the main body portion 172, the top cover 170 may be parallel or flush with the main body portion of the shower base 122. The top cover 170 may continue the inclination or angle of the main body portion 172. In some examples, the top cover 170 may remain substantially horizontal relative to the main body portion 172.

[0050] refer to Figure 6 , removable Figure 5 The top cover 170 in the shower base 122 is positioned adjacent to a recess or depression 174 in the shower base 122. The depression 174 can define a surface that is recessed or sunken relative to the body portion 172. When the top cover is installed, the depression 174 can be at least partially covered by the top cover 170. Water can flow through the shower base 122. Figure 5 The water collected in the recessed portion 174 is collected or accumulated through the access opening 168 in the recessed portion 174. A sump access hole 178 can be defined on the recessed surface of the recessed portion 174. The sump access hole 178 allows the water accumulated in the recessed portion 174 to flow into the sump 180. The sump access hole 178 can be defined by a removable sump cover 182 located on the recessed surface of the recessed portion 174 and mounted thereon.

[0051] The sump cover 182 may include a removable filter 183 configured to capture debris, particles, or other potential contaminants that may flow into the recessed portion 174 with the water. The filter 183 may be placed above the sump access hole 178. The filter 183 prevents debris, particles, or other contaminants from flowing into the sump 180. In some examples, the filter 183 may be removably connected relative to the sump access hole 178. The removability of the filter 183 may facilitate cleaning or replacing the filter 183. Removing the filter 183 may provide initial access to the sump 180. In some examples, the sump cover 182 may be connected and mounted relative to the recessed surface of the recessed portion 174. In some examples, the top of the sump cover 182 may be parallel or flush with the recessed surface of the recessed portion 174.

[0052] refer to Figure 7 Sump cover 182 may be removed to more fully expose sump 180. Removing sump cover 182 provides greater access to sump 180 relative to access through sump access hole 178. Sump 180 may include, for example, but not limited to, a collection sump and / or an overflow sump. In some examples, more than one sump may be included. Water may flow into the sump together or individually.

[0053] The sump 180 may include a drain 184 that can be opened to allow water to drain from the sump. In some cases, the water draining through the drain 184 may not be recirculated. The drain 184 may be closed to allow water flowing into the sump 180 to accumulate within the sump. The sump 180 may include one or more recirculation assemblies 186 located above the drain 184. The recirculation assemblies 186 may work together to recirculate the water accumulated in the sump 180 back to the sump through the sump recirculation line 188. Figure 2 In the piping system 120 shown.

[0054] See also Figure 8, the sump recirculation line 188 can be fluidly connected to the recirculation water line 140 of the piping system 120. The recirculation assembly 186 can work in conjunction to move water from the sump 180 to the recirculation module 138 via the recirculation water line 140. The recirculation assembly 186 can include a main pump 190 (or sump pump) to provide power for moving water from the sump 180 to the sump recirculation line 188 and the recirculation water line 140. The recirculation assembly 186 can also include one or more water level sensors 192 that can detect the level of water accumulated in the sump 180 when the drain 184 is closed. The drain 184 can be equipped with an overflow outlet 194. In some cases, the overflow outlet 194 can be in the form of a raised wall with an open top. The overflow outlet 194 can allow water to drain from the sump 180 regardless of whether the drain 184 is open or closed. The overflow outlet 194 should be at a suitable height so that water can accumulate in the sump 180 and drain from the sump when a certain water level is reached to prevent the sump from flooding or overflowing.

[0055] See also Figure 9 , the sump 180 is sunken relative to the recessed area 174 so that water accumulated in the recessed area can naturally flow into the sump. The first portion (or upper portion) P1 of the sump 180 is elevated relative to the rough ground elevation to maintain the required volume of recirculating water in the sump. In some cases, the second portion (or lower portion) P2 of the sump 180 may extend downward and be at least partially below the rough ground elevation 196. The second portion P2 may be located below the first portion P1 of the sump 180. A drain outlet 184 may be provided in the second portion P2 of the sump 180. An overflow outlet 194 may extend into the first portion P1 of the sump 180.

[0056] The first portion P1 can be larger in size (e.g., volume) than the second portion P2. The relatively smaller second portion P2 is located below the rough floor level 196 to minimize potential interference with any structure or support components (e.g., floor joists). The second portion P2 of the sump 180 can be positioned relative to the recessed area 174 and the first portion P1 of the sump 180 so that water accumulates therein. Water accumulated in the second portion P2 of the sump 180 can be pumped out by the sump pump 190. In some cases, one or more water level sensors 192 can be used to monitor the water level within the first portion P1 and / or the second portion P2 of the sump 180.

[0057] When the drain port 184 is closed, the water in the second portion P2 is prevented from draining out of the sump 180. In other words, when the drain port 184 is closed, water can only drain out of the sump 180 when it accumulates above the top of the overflow outlet 194 in the first portion P1. The drain port 184 can be opened to provide a drainage outlet for the water in the second portion P2 of the sump 180. The drainage outlet provided by opening the drain port 184 can be located at the very bottom or lower portion (or near the very bottom or lower portion) in the second portion P2 of the sump 180. In some cases, the opening and closing of the drain port 184 can be controlled by the user, for example by Figure 2 The user interface 116 in FIG. The drain 184 may include a drain motor for opening and closing the drain.

[0058] refer to Figure 10 The recirculation module 138 may include a recirculation housing 200. The recirculation housing 200 may enclose components that may be Figure 1 Recirculating shower system 100 and Figure 2 The piping system 120 in the recirculation housing 200 is used to facilitate the output and distribution of water, wherein the water includes, for example, clean water, recycled water, ozone water, etc. The recirculation housing 200 may include a first inlet connector 202 for receiving water from the clean water line 136. For example, Figure 4 The clean water flowing out of the vacuum breaker housing 158 of the manifold 152 in the recirculation housing 200 can flow through the clean water line 136 and into the recirculation housing 200 through the first inlet connection 202. The recirculation housing 200 may include a second inlet connection 204 for receiving water from the recirculation water line 140. For example, Figure 8 The recirculated water flowing out of the sump 180 through the sump recirculation line 188 in the sump can flow through the recirculation water line 140 and into the recirculation shell 200 through the second inlet connector 204. The inlet connectors 202 and 204 can also be referred to as the inlet of the recirculation shell 200. The water entering the recirculation shell 200 through the inlet connectors 202 and 204 can be mixed inside the shell and flow out of the shell through the outlet connector 206. The outlet connector 206 can also be referred to as the outlet of the recirculation shell 200. The outlet connector 206 can be connected to the overhead sprinkler line 142 so that the water mixture flowing out of the recirculation shell 200 can flow to the Figure 1 and Figure 2 The overhead sprinkler head 102 in the.

[0059] The recirculation module 138 may include at least one recirculation pump 208 disposed within the recirculation housing 200. The recirculation pump 208 may receive water entering the recirculation housing 200 through the inlets 202 and 204 and deliver the water mixture to the overhead sprinkler line 142 through the outlet 206. In some cases, the recirculation pump 208 may receive and deliver clean water, recirculated water, or a combination thereof, through the recirculation housing 200 and out the outlet 206 to the overhead sprinkler line 142. For example, the recirculation pump 208 may receive clean water through the first inlet 202, receive recirculated water through the inlet 204, and deliver the mixture of clean water and recirculated water to the overhead sprinkler line 142 through the outlet 206.

[0060] The recirculation pump 208 can be operated in a first mode, pushing water toward the outlet 206. The pump 208 can also be operated in a second mode, or bypass mode, in which the pump is turned off and water can flow through or around the pump to one or both inlets 202, 204. Thus, water can flow into the recirculation housing 200 through the outlet 206 and / or through one or both inlets 202, 204, and can flow out of the recirculation housing 200 through the inlets 202, 204 and / or through the outlet 206. The direction of water flow through the recirculation housing 200 can be controlled by the operating mode of the pump 208.

[0061] The recirculation module 138 may include a flow meter 210 positioned within the recirculation housing 200. The flow meter 210 may be positioned near or adjacent to the recirculation pump 208. In some cases, the flow meter 210 may be integrated with the recirculation pump 208. The flow meter 210 may be used to detect the flow rate of water delivered by the pump 208. For example, the flow meter 210 may be used to detect the flow rate of water upstream and / or downstream of the pump 208. In some cases, one or more flow meters may be included within the recirculation housing 200. For example, one or more flow meters may detect the flow rate of clean water and / or recirculated water upstream of the pump 208, and / or the flow rate of a mixture of clean water and recirculated water downstream of the pump 208. The flow meter may be positioned near or adjacent to any one or more of the inlets 202, 204, and / or outlet 206 of the recirculation housing 200.

[0062] The recirculation module 138 may include a control board 212 disposed within the recirculation housing 200. The control board 212 may contain electronic components and circuitry that may be configured to control the operation of the recirculation module 138. For example, the control board 212 may control water flow, temperature, pressure, clean water output, recirculation, draining, ozone distribution, disinfection, shutdown, etc. The control board 212 may be operable to control the pump 208, including the operating mode of the pump to control the direction of water flow through the recirculation housing 200. Additionally or alternatively, the control board 212 may communicate with sensors within the recirculation housing 200, such as the flow meter 210. The control board 212 may communicate with Figure 2The control board 212 may be configured to process incoming communications from the user interface 116 and perform control functions accordingly. Figure 2 The flow control valve 124 in can include the same or similar control board. In addition or alternatively, the control board 212 can communicate with the flow control valve 124 and can perform control functions for controlling the operation of the flow control valve.

[0063] The control board 212 can be connected to Figure 8 The control board 212 may perform control functions for controlling the operation of the recirculation assembly 186. The recirculation housing 200 may include a communication interface 214 for establishing a wired connection with the recirculation assembly 186. For example, a cable or other wire may be connected between the recirculation housing 200 and the recirculation assembly 186 at the communication interface 214. The communication interface 214 may enable the recirculation module 138 to communicate with the recirculation module 138. Figure 1 and Figure 2 Mechanical and / or electrical communication between remote components of the recirculating shower system 100. For example, the recirculation module 138 may communicate with Figure 2 The various components of the piping system 120 are in mechanical and / or electrical communication, such as one or more recirculation components 186 of the sump 180, a drain motor operably connected to a drain outlet 184 in the sump 180, and the flow control valve 124. Thus, the recirculation module 138 is operable to assist in controlling and operating Figure 1 and Figure 2 Recirculating shower system 100 in.

[0064] The recirculation module 138 may include a manifold 216 that can operate as a temperature recovery manifold and / or an inline mixer. The manifold 216 may be disposed within the recirculation housing 200. The manifold 216 may be disposed between the inlets 202, 204 and the pump 208 and be in fluid communication therewith. The manifold 216 may mix or combine water entering through the inlets 202, 204 upstream of the pump 208. For example, the manifold 216 may combine clean water entering the first inlet 202 via line 136 and recirculated water entering the second inlet 204 via line 140 upstream of the pump 208. The first inlet 202 may be connected to the manifold 216 via a first passage 218, and the second inlet 204 may be connected to the manifold 216 via a second passage 220. The manifold 216 may mix the recirculated water with the clean water to restore (e.g., increase) the temperature of the recirculated water to a comfortable or desired temperature.

[0065] The first channel 218 and the second channel 220 can be interconnected by a crossover line 222. A control valve 224 (e.g., a solenoid valve) can be disposed on or near the crossover line 222. The control valve 224 can be operated or positioned to allow or restrict water flow through the crossover line 222. The control valve 224 can be controlled by the control panel 212.

[0066] The control valve 224 can cause water to flow along various flow paths within the recirculation housing 200. For example, when the control valve 224 is closed, water can flow through the respective inlets 202, 204 through the passages 218, 220 and, through operation of the pump 208, toward the outlet 206. When the control valve 224 is open, the pump 208 can be shut off, and water can flow through the first passage 218 through the first inlet 202, into the second passage 220 through the crossover line 222, and out through the second inlet 204 toward the recirculation water line 140. When the control valve 224 is closed and the pump 208 is operating in a bypass mode or shut off, water can bypass or pass through the pump 208 through the outlet 206, flow through the second passage 220, and out through the second inlet 204 toward the recirculation water line 140, while being restricted from flowing through the first passage 218.

[0067] The recirculation module 138 may also include an ozone generator 226 operable to generate ozone for cleaning and / or disinfecting the water flowing through the recirculation housing 200. Additionally or alternatively, the ozone generator 226 may generate ozone that may be Figure 2 The entire piping system 120 is carried in a water flow for cleaning Figure 1 and Figure 2 One or more lines of the recirculating shower system 100. The ozone generator 226 can be positioned within, adjacent to, or in the vicinity of the second passage 220. Additionally or alternatively, the ozone generator 226 can be positioned within, adjacent to, or in the vicinity of the first passage 218 and / or the crossover line 222. In some examples, clean water from the clean water line 136 can flow into the first passage 218 through the first inlet 202, pass through the open control valve 224 and the crossover line 222 into the second passage 220, and pass through the ozone generator 226 to absorb the generated ozone. The ozonated water can then flow out of the recirculation housing 200 through the second inlet 204 and flow to the second passage 218 through the line 140. Figure 8 The ozonated water can accumulate in the sump 180. The ozonated water accumulated in the sump 180 can be pumped back to the recirculation housing 200 by the pump 208 and flowed to the recirculation housing 200 through the pipeline 142. Figure 1 and Figure 2 Thus, the recirculation module 138 including the ozone generator 226 can be operated to Figure 1 and Figure 2The recirculating shower system 100 can be disinfected, sterilized, flushed, cleaned or otherwise cleaned.

[0068] The ozone generator 226 is one example of an inline cleaning, disinfecting, and / or sterilizing device that may be included in the recirculation housing 200. Other types of inline cleaning, disinfecting, and / or sterilizing devices may also be included in addition or alternatively. For example, the recirculation module 138 and / or Figure 2 The piping system 120 may include an ozone generator, enhanced filtration equipment, ultraviolet filtration and / or sterilization equipment (e.g., UV, UV-C, UVGI, etc.), and any combination thereof. In some examples, in addition to or in place of the recirculation housing 200, one or more inline cleaning, disinfecting, and / or sterilizing equipment may be included near the sump 180 or another location. As used herein, "inline cleaning equipment" may include equipment capable of cleaning, disinfecting, sterilizing, or otherwise removing contaminants from a water stream and / or a line carrying the water stream.

[0069] In addition to or in lieu of the flow meter 210, the recirculation module 138 may also include one or more sensors 228. The sensors 228 of the recirculation module 138 may be located at any suitable location, such as at or near the first inlet 202, the second inlet 204, the outlet 206, the pump 208, the first passage 218, the second passage 220, and / or the crossover line 222. The sensors 228 may be operable to monitor one or more characteristics or conditions of the water flowing through the recirculation housing 200. The sensors 228 may communicate with the control board 212, which may use data or signals from the sensors to perform control functions as described herein. The sensors 228 may include one or more thermistors or temperature sensors. For example, one or more thermistors 228 may be located at or near the outlet 206 to monitor the temperature of the water flowing out of and / or into the recirculation housing 200 through the outlet 206. One or more thermistors or temperature sensors may be included at various locations within the recirculation housing 200. For example, one or more thermistors or temperature sensors may monitor the temperature of water flowing into, through, and / or out of recirculation housing 200 via first inlet 202 , second inlet 204 , outlet 206 , pump 208 , first passage 218 , second passage 220 , and / or crossover line 222 .

[0070] Reference Figure 11, the recirculating shower system 100 is shown in schematic form. The flow control valve 124 and the recirculation module 138 can work in conjunction to supply fresh water and / or recirculated water to one or both showerheads 102, 104. The user interface 116 can communicate with the flow control valve 124 and the recirculation module 138 and allow the user to select whether fresh water and / or recirculated water is dispensed at the showerheads 102, 104. The recirculation module 138, and in some examples, the flow control valve 124, can be controlled by the control board 212 or controller in response to input received by the user interface 116 and / or according to preprogrammed instructions or procedures. Advantageously, in the recirculation mode, the recirculation module 138 can be operated to extract "used" water that may accumulate in the sump 180 and move it to the recirculation module 138 via the sump pump 190. This can significantly reduce water consumption and / or pollution and can be particularly advantageous in areas where fresh water supplies are scarce and / or water consumption is high.

[0071] Removable filter screen 183 can serve as a first barrier to prevent debris, particles, or other potential contaminants from entering or mixing with the recirculating water flow. Sump pump 190 can also be equipped with and / or located downstream of a secondary filter screen 198, which can limit or prevent debris, particles, or other potential contaminants that have entered sump 180 from entering or mixing with the recirculating water flow. Recirculation module 138 can also include a recirculation pump 208, which is operable to move the recirculated water through at least a portion of the piping system 120. The dual-pump configuration of recirculating shower system 100 (which can include at least pumps 190 and 208) can provide greater flexibility and functionality in moving, treating, or otherwise managing the recirculating water flow through piping system 120. Inline cleaning equipment 226 (such as an ozone generator) can be operated intermittently or periodically to clean the recirculating water and / or the lines of piping system 120 that carry the recirculated water to ensure that shower system 100 remains clean, disinfected, sterilized, or otherwise suitable for safe use.

[0072] Flow control valve 124 receives hot and / or cold water through inlets 126 and 128 and directs fresh water at a desired temperature, pressure, and / or flow rate to recirculation module 138 via fresh water line 136. The temperature of the fresh water directed from flow control valve 124 to recirculation module 138 can be controlled by the user via user interface 116 or can be a predefined temperature. Additionally or alternatively, the pressure and / or flow rate of the fresh water directed from flow control valve 124 to recirculation module 138 can be controlled by the user via user interface 116 or can be a predefined pressure and / or flow rate. Fresh water from flow control valve 124 can be mixed with recirculated water received via recirculation water line 140 via manifold 216 of recirculation module 138. The fresh water can restore (e.g., increase) the temperature, pressure, and / or flow rate of the recirculated water to a desired or comfortable level. The temperature, pressure, and / or flow rate of the water flowing into, through, and / or out of recirculation module 138 can be monitored via sensor 228. The recirculation module 138 can direct the mixture of fresh water and recirculated water to the overhead spray head 102 via line 142. In some examples, the recirculation module 138 can also additionally or alternatively direct the water mixture to the handheld spray head 104.

[0073] A user taking a shower or otherwise using the recirculating shower system 100 may indicate and control which shower heads 102, 104 they wish to use via the user interface 116. The user may specify that water be released from one or both shower heads 102, 104. The user interface 116 may include Figure 1 The user interface 116 may include a user input device 118, such as a mechanical control, a manual control, a touchscreen display, or a combination thereof, operable to allow a user to select the spray heads 102 and / or 104 for dispensing water. Additionally or alternatively, the user interface 116 may be operable to allow a user to select characteristics or conditions of the water being dispensed, such as temperature, pressure, and / or flow rate. Additionally or alternatively, the user interface 116 may be operable to allow a user to initiate, switch between, terminate, or cycle through different operating modes of the shower system 100, including those described herein. The recirculating shower system 100 may supply water according to the user's selection and deliver the water to the spray heads 102 and / or 104 via the piping system 120. Water may flow from the designated spray heads 102, 104 for the user to shower or rinse. The user may also change water supply designations, water conditions, operating modes, etc., during a shower or while the system 100 is operating, and the recirculating shower system 100 may react or respond accordingly to meet the request.

[0074] Electrical communication between the user interface 116, the flow control valve 124, the recirculation module 138, and / or the recirculation assembly 186 can be established via any suitable wired or wireless connection. In some examples, a communication harness can be included to provide electrical communication between the components of the system 100. For example, the flow control valve 124 can communicate with the recirculation module 138 via a first wiring harness 250. The recirculation module 138 can communicate with the recirculation assembly 186 via a second wiring harness 252. The wiring harnesses 250, 252 can enable the controller 212 of the recirculation module 138 to control the operation of the flow control valve 124 and the recirculation assembly 186 and / or to send and receive data or signals to and from them. The second wiring harness 252 can also additionally or alternatively enable the controller 212 to open or close the drain 184 of the sump 180 by operating a drain motor.

[0075] Figure 12 Water flow through shower system 100 and plumbing system 120 is shown in a first example operating mode. This operating mode may be an example of an initial rinse shower phase, wherein fresh water is dispensed from handheld showerhead 104. In some examples, fresh water may additionally or alternatively be dispensed from an overhead showerhead during the initial rinse shower phase. A user may select to initiate the rinse shower phase via user interface 116. Additionally or alternatively, the rinse shower phase may be initiated autonomously according to preprogrammed instructions or procedures.

[0076] In this operating mode, hot fresh water 302 and cold fresh water 304 can be supplied to and received by flow control valve 124 through inlets 126 and 128, respectively. Flow control valve 124 can mix the hot fresh water 302 and the cold fresh water 304 to produce a fresh water mixture 306, which flows out of the flow control valve into line 134. The conditions (e.g., temperature, pressure, and / or flow rate) of fresh water mixture 306 can be controlled by flow control valve 124. For example, flow control valve 124 can control the conditions of fresh water mixture 306 based on a desired temperature, pressure, and / or flow rate requested by a user of shower system 100 via user interface 116. Additionally or alternatively, the conditions of fresh water mixture 306 can be controlled based on preprogrammed instructions or a routine. In examples, flow control valve 124 can be controlled mechanically or electronically. Those skilled in the art will appreciate how to control the conditions, such as temperature, pressure, and / or flow rate, of the fresh water entering and exiting flow control valve 124 (at 302, 304, and 306).

[0077] The clean water mixture 306 flowing out of the flow control valve 124 can flow through the pipeline 134 to and through the three-way manifold 152. The manifold 152 can direct the clean water mixture 306 to the flexible hose 114 and then to the handheld spray head 104. The handheld spray head 104 can spray the clean water mixture 306. The handheld spray head 104 can also be moved relative to the slide bar 108 and / or removed from the slide bar 108, so that the user can operate the handheld spray head 104 and adjust the spray direction of the clean water mixture 306.

[0078] Once dispensed and used, the water mixture 308 can enter the sump 180. The used water mixture 308 can flow through a removable screen 183, which can capture debris or prevent debris from accumulating in the sump 180. In this mode of operation, the drain 184 of the sump 180 can be open. The used water 308 can flow out of the sump 180 and out of the system 100 through the drain 184. When the drain 184 is open, the used water 308 can be discharged directly from the sump 180, bypassing the overflow outlet 194. Therefore, when the drain 184 is open, the used water 308 does not accumulate in the sump 180 in a large amount.

[0079] Now refer to Figure 13 , the recirculating shower system 100 can operate in the second operating mode. The user can select from the user interface 116 Figure 12 The first operating mode transitions to Figure 13 In addition or alternatively, the recirculating shower system 100 can transition from the first operating mode to the second operating mode according to preprogrammed instructions or routines. More generally, the example operating modes described herein can be initiated, transitioned, terminated, or cycled through in any combination in response to user input via the user interface 116 and / or according to preprogrammed instructions or routines. Example functions performed by the recirculating shower system 100 during the operating modes are described, but this is not an exhaustive list of functions. The functions performed by the recirculating shower system 100 can be controlled by the controller 212 and / or other controllers or control boards of the system.

[0080] Figure 13 The illustrated operating mode may be an example of a pump pre-priming phase of the recirculating shower system 100. In this phase, the drain 184 may be closed to allow used water 308 to accumulate in the sump 180. The overflow outlet 194 may provide a drainage channel for the overflow of the water 308 accumulated in the sump 180, thereby allowing water in the sump 180 that exceeds a certain level to be discharged through the overflow outlet. Figure 12As described above, the clean water mixture 306 can continue to be sprayed through the handheld spray head 104. The flow control valve 124 can divert a portion of the clean water mixture (indicated by 402) to the clean water pipeline 136. The clean water mixture 402 flowing through the pipeline 136 can flow through the three-way manifold 152, in which the clean water mixture 402 can flow through the anti-backflow and / or anti-siphon device (such as Figure 4 The line 136 can direct the clean water mixture 402 from the manifold 152 to the recirculation module 138. A backflow prevention and / or anti-siphon device in the three-way manifold can prevent the clean water mixture 402 and / or water flowing through the recirculation module 138 from flowing back or being sucked back through the line 136 to the flow control valve 124.

[0081] During the pump pre-priming phase, the pump 208 of the recirculation module 138 can be turned off and the control valve 224 can be positioned to direct the clean water mixture 402 into the recirculation water line 140 toward the sump pump 190. The clean water mixture 402 can be supplied to the recirculation component 186 within the sump 180, such as the sump pump 190. The clean water mixture 402 supplied to the sump 180 can pre-prime the recirculation component 186 (e.g., the sump pump 190) to recirculate the used water 308 accumulated in the sump. For example, the clean water mixture 402 can purge any air from the recirculation component 186 and / or the line between the sump 180 and the recirculation module 138. Additionally or alternatively, the clean water mixture 402 can heat the recirculation component 186 and / or the line between the sump 180 and the recirculation module 138.

[0082] In some examples, the clean water mixture 402 flowing out of the flow control valve 124 can flow out at a predetermined or preset flow rate. For example, the clean water mixture 402 can flow to the recirculation module 138 at a flow rate between 0 and 1 gallons per minute (GPM) (e.g., approximately 0.5 GPM). The flow rate of the clean water mixture 402 can remain substantially unchanged or approximately the same in various operating modes utilizing the clean water mixture 402. Additionally or alternatively, the flow rate of the clean water mixture 402 can be varied according to preprogrammed instructions or procedures and / or in response to user input on the user interface 116. The clean water mixture 402 can be at a suitable temperature so as to be able to heat the recirculation assembly 186 and / or the recirculation line. The flow control valve 124 can be operated to control the amount of hot clean water 304 and cold clean water 302 in the mixture, thereby achieving a predetermined or preset temperature of the clean water mixture 402. Additionally or alternatively, the flow rate and / or temperature of the clean water mixture 402 can be controlled in response to user input on the user interface 116.

[0083] exist Figure 13During the pump pre-priming phase shown, one or more sensors (e.g., level sensor 192) can monitor the level, volume, or other condition of used water 308 accumulated in sump 180. In some examples, communication from one or more sensors in sump 180 can provide readings to a user and / or can be used to automatically or manually open or close drain 184, for example, by activating a drain motor within the sump. Sump pump 180, drain motor, one or more level sensors 192, or other recirculation components 186 can be in electrical communication with a controller of recirculation module 138 or other controller.

[0084] Now refer to Figure 14 , the recirculating shower system 100 can be Figure 13 The pump pre-priming phase is shown transitioning to the water recirculation phase. The water recirculation phase can be initiated when the level of used water 308 reaches a desired or predetermined level and the recirculation assembly 186 and associated piping have been pre-primed. While the recirculation assembly 186 (e.g., sump pump 190) is pre-priming or after pre-priming is complete, the handheld sprayer 104 can continue to spray the clean water mixture 306, and the sump 180 can be filled or continue to be filled with used water 308. One or more level sensors 192 can monitor the level of used water 308 accumulated in the sump 180. When the used water 308 in the sump 180 reaches an appropriate level sufficient to initiate water recirculation, the one or more sensors 192 can provide confirmation to the recirculation module 138 (e.g., controller 212). The appropriate water level required to initiate recirculation can be a predetermined or preset level in the sump 180. At the same time, as the handheld spray head 104 continues to spray the clean water mixture 306, the excess used water 308 accumulated in the sump 180 can overflow from the top or edge of the overflow outlet 194 and be discharged from the sump 180. Discharging the excess used water 308 through the overflow outlet 194 can prevent the used water or additional water from overflowing above the sump 180. Such overflow can cause water to Figure 5 Shown is accumulation on top of and inside the shower base 122. Preventing excess water from overflowing can prevent a user of the recirculating shower system 100 from standing in standing water, which could otherwise create a potential hazard, such as a user slipping or falling in the shower.

[0085] When used water 308 is ready for recirculation, as indicated by level sensor 192, sump pump 190 and recirculation module 138 can be activated to begin supplying recirculated water 502 through piping system 120. Recirculated water 502, which enters and is delivered by sump pump 190 through filter screen 183 and secondary filter screen 198, can be substantially free of debris, particulates, or other potential contaminants. Sump pump 190 can be operated to deliver recirculated water 502 to recirculation module 138 via recirculation water line 140. Simultaneously, clean water mixture 402 can continue to flow toward recirculation module 138. Clean water mixture 402 and recirculated water 502 can combine or mix in the manifold of recirculation module 138 to produce recirculated clean water mixture 504. Recirculated clean water mixture 504 can exit recirculation module 138 and begin flowing toward overhead sprinkler 102 via line 142.

[0086] In the transition to Figure 14 During the water recirculation phase shown, the recirculation pump 208 can be temporarily shut down until the controller 212 receives an indication that the system 100 is ready for water recirculation. While the recirculation pump 208 is shut down, the recirculated clean water mixture 504 can flow through the recirculation module 138, within the pump 208, and / or around the pump 208. Once the controller 212 receives an indication that water recirculation is ready, the recirculation pump 208 can be activated to assist or facilitate the flow of the recirculated clean water mixture 504 through the piping system 120 (e.g., via line 142). For example, a sensor 228 (e.g., a flow meter and / or thermistor) of the recirculation module 138 can detect the flow of the recirculated clean water mixture 504 within the recirculation module 138 via the sump pump 190, which can indicate that water recirculation is ready. Additionally or alternatively, the controller 212 can receive an indication that water recirculation is ready from the level sensor 192 of the sump 180. The controller 212 may also detect and receive other indications to control the operation of the recirculation pump 208 when water is ready to be recirculated.

[0087] Figure 15 Shown in Figure 14180 . Here, when the controller 212 receives an indication that water recirculation is ready, the recirculation pump 208 of the recirculation module 138 can be activated to deliver the recirculated clean water mixture 504 through the pipeline 142. The recirculated clean water mixture 504 can be sprayed through the overhead spray head 102. At this stage, the flow control valve 124 can be controlled to direct all of the outflowing clean water into the clean water pipeline 136 as the clean water mixture 402. The clean water mixture 402 continues to mix or combine with the recirculated water 502 supplied from the sump 180 via the sump pump 190, thereby producing a continuous flow of recirculated clean water mixture 504. The supply of clean water mixture 306 can be terminated, and the handheld spray head 104 may not spray water. Alternatively, the clean water mixture 306 can continue to be supplied to the handheld spray head 104 and sprayed therethrough. In some examples, in addition to or as an alternative to the overhead spray head 102 , the recirculated clean water mixture 504 may be supplied to and sprayed through the handheld spray head 104 .

[0088] One or more sensors 228 on the recirculation module 138 can monitor the condition of the recirculating clean water mixture 504, such as temperature. A controller, such as the controller 212 of the recirculation module, can control the flow control valve 124 to adjust or maintain the temperature of the clean water mixture 402 based on the measurements from the sensors 228 and a predetermined set point or user input entered through the user interface 116. For example, when the temperature of the recirculating clean water mixture 504 is below a given set point, the flow control valve 124 can be controlled to increase the temperature of the clean water mixture 402. When the temperature of the recirculating clean water mixture 504 is above a given set point, the flow control valve 124 can be controlled to decrease the temperature of the clean water mixture 402. Other conditions of the clean water mixture, such as pressure and / or flow, can also be controlled by the recirculation module 138 and / or the flow control valve 124 to provide the desired condition of the recirculating clean water mixture 504. In this way, the recirculation module 138 and the flow control valve 124 can work in conjunction to enable the use of recirculated water without sacrificing comfort or the ability to meet user preferences. Figure 15 Operating in the recirculation mode shown can help reduce unnecessary water waste, saving the user unnecessary costs associated with excessive water use while providing additional benefits to the user and the environment.

[0089] The recycled clean water mixture 504 sprayed by the overhead nozzle 102 can be accumulated in the sump as used water 506. This can provide a continuous or constant supply of recycled water 502 for producing the recycled clean water mixture 504. Here again, the recycled water 502 entering and being delivered by the pump 190 can be substantially removed from debris, particles, or other potential contaminants by passing through the filter 183 and the secondary filter 198. Excess used water 506 can be discharged from the sump 180 through the overflow outlet 194 to prevent the sump 180 from overflowing.

[0090] Figure 16 An example shutdown operation for the recirculating shower system 100 is shown. A user can instruct or select to shut down the recirculating shower system 100 via the user interface 116. Additionally or alternatively, the shutdown operation can be initiated autonomously based on pre-programmed instructions or procedures. During the shutdown operation, the flow control valve 124 can be controlled to terminate or stop all water flow therethrough. The sump pump 190 and the recirculation pump 208 can also be shut down. A signal or communication can be sent to the drain motor to open the drain 184. Additionally or alternatively, the drain 184 can be opened manually. Residual water 602 in the system 100 can be drained through the drain 184. In some examples, the flow of water in the piping system 120, including the recirculation module 138, can be unrestricted, allowing the flow of residual water 602 to flow backward or downward and out through the drain 184. In some examples, during the shutdown operation, the recirculating shower system 100 can rely on gravity as the force for residual water 602 to flow toward and out of the system through the drain 184. In some examples, operating pumps in the system, such as sump pump 190 and / or recirculation pump 208, can assist in facilitating the flow and subsequent drainage of residual water 602 remaining in the system. Such drainage can help flush screens in sump 180, such as secondary screen 198, and help flush any debris down the drain.

[0091] Figure 17 An example of activating a cleaning and / or disinfecting mode of operation of the recirculating shower system 100 is shown. For simplicity, this mode of operation is referred to as a cleaning mode of operation or a cleaning phase, but it may also perform the functions of disinfecting, sterilizing, flushing, rinsing, or otherwise cleaning the recirculating shower system 100. To activate the cleaning mode of operation, the flow control valve 124 may control the flow of the clean water mixture 402 to the recirculating module 138. After the clean water mixture 402 enters the recirculating module 138, it passes through the inline cleaning device 226 (as described with respect to FIG. Figure 10The ozone generator (described above) is used to divert the ozone. For example, the inline cleaning device 226 may include an ozone generator configured to generate and provide ozone by electrolysis or other means. The ozone is introduced into the clean water mixture to produce ozone water 702. The ozone water 702 helps to disinfect bacteria, viruses, or other contaminants within the recirculating shower system 100. The ozone water 702 may also be referred to as a clean water mixture or clean water. The clean water mixture may be prepared by ozonation, ultraviolet filtration, ultraviolet disinfection, or other inline cleaning devices or mechanisms (such as enhanced filtration).

[0092] The cleaning phase can be manually activated by user input or can be autonomously activated according to pre-programmed instructions or procedures. For example, a user can initiate the cleaning phase through the user interface 116 and activate the inline cleaning device 226 (e.g., an ozone generator). In some examples, the user can initiate the cleaning phase when they decide to terminate or shut down the recirculating shower system 100. In some examples, the user can initiate the cleaning phase after completing the cleaning phase. Figure 16 In some examples, the cleaning phase can be activated autonomously by a controller (e.g., controller 212 of recirculation module 138). For example, controller 212 can be activated at Figure 16 The cleaning phase is initiated after the illustrated off phase is terminated or completed. Additionally or alternatively, the controller 212 can initiate the cleaning phase after a predetermined period of time has passed since the user turned off the recirculating shower system 100. In some examples, the recirculating shower system 100 can include a cleaning phase actuator, such as a button, switch, trigger, touchscreen selection, etc., via the user interface 116, which, when actuated, can activate the cleaning phase and / or the inline cleaning device 226.

[0093] In such Figure 17 When the cleaning phase is started as shown, clean water 702 (e.g., ozone water) can be directed to line 140 via recirculation module 138 to flow to sump 180. Clean water 702 accumulates in sump 180 while cleaning and / or pre-filling recirculation assembly 186. Sump 180 can be filled with the clean water 702 accumulated therein. Drain 184 can be closed so that clean water 702 accumulates in sump 180. Excess clean water 702 can be drained from sump 180 via overflow outlet 194. Level sensor 192 can monitor the level of clean water 702 accumulated in sump 180. During the process of filling sump 180 with clean water 702, air in recirculation assembly 186 (e.g., sump pump 190) can be purged, and the recirculation assembly can be pre-filled with clean water 702. In some examples, if a secondary pump or multiple pumps are used, the air in the other pumps can also be purged when the cleaning phase starts. For example, the recirculation pump 208 can be purged and pre-filled with clean water 702.

[0094] Figure 18An example of a cleaning phase is shown wherein the clean water 702 may be recirculated through the piping system 120 when the sump 180 has been filled to a desired or predetermined level of clean water 702 and the recirculation assembly 186 has been pre-filled with water. The sump pump 190 and the recirculation pump 208 may cooperate to move the clean water 702 (e.g., ozone water) sequentially through the line 140, the recirculation module 138, the line 142, and ultimately out of the overhead spray head 102. In some examples, the clean water 702 may be moved to and sprayed through the handheld spray head 104. The sump pump 190 may be activated first to move the clean water 702 to and through the recirculation module 138. When the controller 212 receives an indication via the sensor 228 that the clean water 702 is ready to be recirculated, the recirculation pump 208 may be activated. The flow of clean water 702 and the operation of the components that circulate the clean water through the piping system 120 may be similar to those described above with respect to Figure 15 The recirculation mode is similar. The drain port 184 can remain closed so that the clean water 702 accumulated in the sump 180 can flow back to the recirculation module 138 through the sump pump 180. Excess clean water 702 can continue to be discharged from the sump 180 through the overflow outlet 194.

[0095] The recirculation of purified water 702 can serve to disinfect, sterilize, rinse, clean, or otherwise sanitize the recirculating shower system 100, and / or clean or rinse out any remaining old or used water and debris in the system. The cleaning phase, and therefore the operation of the inline cleaning device 226 (e.g., an ozone generator), can be initiated and continued for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 5 seconds, 10 seconds, etc.), or performed in a timed sequence (e.g., to perform a quick clean or rinse of the recirculating shower system 100). In some cases, the cleaning phase and / or the inline cleaning device 226 can be deactivated (e.g., shut down) based on user input. The inline cleaning device 226 can be operably connected to a control system, such as the controller 212, to automatically or autonomously activate the cleaning phase and the inline cleaning device at predetermined times (e.g., daily, weekly, monthly, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, the user can initiate and / or the system 100 can automatically or autonomously activate a longer, deep disinfecting cleaning phase. For example, the cleaning phase can last longer than the quick clean, can incorporate more ozone, can provide greater water pressure during the cleaning process, and so on. The recirculating shower system 100 may include one or more indicators to indicate the activation status of the disinfection phase and the inline cleaning device 226, including, but not limited to, audible and / or visual effects, so that the user can detect the indicator and determine or consider whether to activate the disinfection phase and the ozone generator. In some cases, the user and / or the controller can adjust the water temperature provided by the flow control valve 124 to regulate the temperature of the clean water 702 used in the cleaning phase. In some cases, the temperature of the clean water mixture 402 provided by the flow control valve 124 during the cleaning phase can be preset.

[0096] System 100 can be equipped with an inline heater, such as a tankless water heater, to heat the water flowing through piping system 120. The inline heater can be integrated into recirculation module 138 or separate from the recirculation module. The inline heater can be used during the cleaning phase. Additionally or alternatively, the inline heater can heat water in any operating mode of system 100, such as water recirculation mode.

[0097] When the cleaning phase is complete or nearly complete, the flow control valve 124 may stop supplying the clean water mixture 402 to the recirculation module 138 and / or the inline cleaning device 226 may be shut down. After the cleaning phase is complete, a shut-down operation may be initiated, e.g. Figure 16 As previously described (refer to Figure 16 ), the residual clean water in the system can flow out of the system naturally or by pumping through the drain port 184 in the sump 180.

[0098] Now refer to Figure 19, an alternative example of a recirculating shower system 800 is shown. The alternative example configuration of the recirculating shower system 800 may include the same or similar components, features, and elements as the recirculating shower system 100 described herein. For the sake of brevity and ease of disclosure, the similarities between the recirculating shower systems 100 and 800 may not be described again. Figure 18 Like reference numerals are used to identify the same or similar components, features, and elements between recirculating shower systems 100 and 800. Alternative configurations, components, features, and elements of shower system 800 may be incorporated into system 100, and vice versa, in any combination.

[0099] In this example, the recirculating shower system 800 may include a recirculation pump 802. The recirculation pump 802 may be separate from the recirculation module 138 and may be positioned to recirculate water through the piping system 120. For example, the recirculation pump 802 may be positioned downstream of the recirculation module 138, such as on the overhead sprinkler line 142. Additionally or alternatively, the recirculation pump 802 may be positioned upstream of the recirculation module 138, such as on the recirculating water line 140. The recirculation pump 802 may be in addition to or in place of the recirculation pump 208 and / or the sump pump 190 in the recirculation module 138. The recirculation pump 802 may be a relatively large or high-capacity pump capable of pumping water throughout the entire system 800, including all stages described above. The recirculation pump 802 may eliminate the need for additional pumps, thereby reducing the number of components and cost in the system.

[0100] In various variations of the recirculating shower system 800, additional or alternative plumbing devices may be included to facilitate the flow of water into, through, and / or out of the recirculating module 138 and / or the flow control valve 124, thereby supplying water to the showerheads 102, 104 and additional or alternative water spray devices (e.g., body sprays, rain shower panels, etc.). These additional or alternative water spray devices may be in fluid communication with the components of the recirculating shower system, as described herein. In some examples, a user and / or a controller may conveniently operate and control these additional or alternative water spray devices, as described herein.

[0101] Communication between the recirculation assembly 186 in the sump 180 and the recirculation module 138 can be established via the second wiring harness 252 described above. In this example, the recirculation assembly 186 can also include a valve 804, such as a solenoid valve, located at or near the sump pump 190. The solenoid valve 804 can be positioned at the inlet of the sump pump 180 and can be operated to isolate the sump pump 190 from the sump 180. Additionally or alternatively, a valve (such as a solenoid valve) can be positioned at the outlet of the sump pump 190 to isolate the sump pump from the recirculation water line 140. During the startup phase of the recirculation mode of operation (when the sump 180 is filled and the sump pump 190 is pre-primed), the valve 804 can be closed. For example, closing the valve 804 can allow water in the sump 180 to purge air from the sump pump 190. Additionally or alternatively, closing the valve 804 can allow water from the line 140 to purge air from the sump pump 190. When sump 180 is filled and sump pump 190 has been primed, valve 804 may be opened to allow water to begin recirculating.

[0102] Communication between the drain 184 and the recirculation module 138 can be established electrically via the second wiring harness 252 and / or mechanically via a drain cable 806. The drain cable 806 can be operated by the recirculation module 138 (e.g., via the controller 212 and / or an actuable cable driver located in the recirculation module 138). The drain cable 806 can be operated to selectively open or close the drain 184. For example, the action of the drain cable 806 can be triggered by the water level detected by the water level sensor 192 in the sump 180.

[0103] In these examples, clean water line 136 downstream of tee manifold 152 can be connected, coupled, or communicated with recirculating water line 140. Clean water line 136 can communicate with recirculating water line 140 between recirculation module 138 and / or recirculation pump 802 and sump pump 190 and / or valve 804. One or more thermistors or temperature sensors can be located at, near, and / or downstream of clean water line 136. In some examples, one or more thermistors or temperature sensors are located downstream of clean water line 136 along line 140. In some examples, one or more thermistors or temperature sensors are located at or near recirculation module 138. In some examples, a manifold or inline mixer can be connected between line 136 and line 140 to allow mixing or combining of the water at the communicating junction of lines 136 and 140. In some examples, line 136 communicating with line 140 can omit manifold 216 in recirculation module 138.

[0104] In some examples, different variations of the recirculating shower system may incorporate additional or alternative features or iterations, as described herein. For example, an iterative version of the recirculating shower system may include an improved or enhanced level of filtration. One or more additional filters or improved / enhanced filtration systems / mechanisms may be integrated into the recirculating shower system. In some examples, ultraviolet disinfection and / or filtration equipment (e.g., UV, UV-C, UVGI, etc.) may be integrated into the recirculating shower system. In some examples, the improved or enhanced filters, ultraviolet disinfection and / or filtration equipment, or a combination thereof may be integrated into the plumbing fixtures. In some examples, it is contemplated that the improved or enhanced filters, ultraviolet disinfection and / or filtration equipment, or a combination thereof may be coupled or integrated into the sump. Coupling these components within the sump may provide easier access and maintenance for the user. The improved or enhanced filters and / or ultraviolet disinfection and / or filtration equipment may be used in conjunction with or as an alternative to an ozone generator.

[0105] It should be understood that the various aspects disclosed herein may be combined in combinations different from those specifically presented in the description and drawings. It should also be understood that, depending on the example, certain acts or events of any process or method described herein may be performed in a different order, may be added, combined, or omitted entirely (e.g., not all described acts or events are required to perform these techniques). In addition, although certain aspects disclosed herein are described as being performed by a single module or unit for clarity, it should be understood that these techniques may be performed by a combination of units or modules associated with, for example, a medical device.

[0106] In one or more examples, the described techniques can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software, the functions can be stored as one or more instructions or codes on a computer-readable medium and executed by a hardware-based processing unit. Computer-readable media can include non-transitory computer-readable media, which corresponds to tangible media, such as data storage media (e.g., RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory, or any other medium that can be used to store the desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a computer).

[0107] Instructions may be executed by one or more processors, such as one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), general-purpose microprocessors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable logic arrays (FPGAs), or other equivalent integrated or discrete logic circuits. Thus, the term "processor," as used herein, may refer to any of the aforementioned structures or any other physical structure suitable for implementing the described techniques. Furthermore, these techniques may be implemented entirely in one or more circuits or logic elements.

Claims

1. A recirculating shower system comprising: a first nozzle and a second nozzle, each of the first nozzle and the second nozzle being configured to spray water; a shower base, for collecting water sprayed by the first spray head and the second spray head; a sump for receiving water from the shower base; a flow control valve for receiving clean water, the flow control valve being connected to a first clean water pipeline and a second clean water pipeline, the first clean water pipeline delivering clean water to the first nozzle; as well as A recirculation module receives recirculation water from the sump through a first recirculation water line, the recirculation module is connected to a second recirculation water line, and the second recirculation water line transports the recirculation water from the recirculation module to the second spray head.

2. The recirculating shower system of claim 1 , further comprising: a sump pump disposed in the sump and configured to move recirculating water to the recirculation module via the first recirculating water line; as well as A recirculation pump is used to move the recirculation water to the second spray head through the second recirculation water pipeline.

3. The recirculating shower system of claim 2, wherein the recirculation pump is disposed within a recirculation housing of the recirculation module.

4. The recirculating shower system of claim 1 , wherein the recirculating module comprises: a recirculation housing having a first inlet connected to the second fresh water line, a second inlet connected to the first recirculation water line, and an outlet connected to the second recirculation water line; as well as a manifold for combining clean water from the second clean water line and recirculated water from the first recirculated water line into a recirculated clean water mixture; The second recirculating water pipeline transports the recirculating clean water mixture flowing out of the recirculating shell to the second spray head via the outlet.

5. The recirculating shower system of claim 4, wherein the recirculation module includes a recirculation pump disposed downstream of the manifold, the recirculation pump being operable to move the recirculated fresh water mixture toward the second showerhead through the second recirculation water line.

6. The recirculating shower system of claim 1, wherein the flow control valve is operable to direct fresh water to one or both of the first fresh water line or the second fresh water line.

7. The recirculating shower system of claim 6, further comprising a controller configured to: controlling the flow control valve to direct fresh water to the first fresh water line while restricting fresh water flow to the second fresh water line in a first operating mode of the recirculating shower system; and In a second operating mode of the recirculating shower system, the flow control valve is controlled to direct fresh water to the second fresh water line while restricting fresh water flow to the first fresh water line.

8. The recirculating shower system of claim 7, further comprising a user interface in communication with the controller, wherein the user interface receives inputs that cause the controller to operate the recirculating shower system in the first operating mode or the second operating mode.

9. The recirculating shower system of claim 1 , wherein the recirculation module includes an inline cleaning device operable to generate clean water from clean water, and the recirculation module directs the clean water to a first recirculating water line in a direction toward the sump and a second recirculating water line in a direction toward the second showerhead.

10. The recirculating shower system according to claim 1, further comprising a backflow prevention device provided on the second fresh water line, the backflow prevention device being located between the flow control valve and the recirculation module.

11. The recirculating shower system of claim 10, wherein the backflow prevention device comprises a vacuum breaker.

12. A piping system for a recirculating shower system, the piping system comprising: a flow control valve for receiving clean water, the flow control valve being connected to a first clean water line and a second clean water line, the first clean water line conveying clean water to a shower head of the recirculating shower system, the shower head spraying clean water onto a shower base of the recirculating shower system; a recirculation module connected to a first recirculation water line that receives recirculation water from a sump located below the shower base, the recirculation water in the first recirculation water line being mixed with clean water in a second clean water line to produce a recirculation clean water mixture, the recirculation module being further connected to a second recirculation water line that delivers the recirculation clean water mixture to the recirculation shower system; A recirculation pump is operable to move the recirculating clean water mixture through the second recirculating water line.

13. The piping system of claim 12, wherein the recirculation module comprises: a recirculation housing having a first inlet connected to the second fresh water line, a second inlet connected to the first recirculation water line, and an outlet connected to the second recirculation water line; a manifold that combines clean water from the second clean water line and recirculated water from the first recirculated water line into a recirculated clean water mixture; and The recirculation pump is located downstream of the manifold.

14. The piping system of claim 13, wherein the recirculation pump is disposed within the recirculation housing.

15. The piping system of claim 12, further comprising a controller in communication with the flow control valve, the recirculation module, and the recirculation pump, wherein the controller is configured to: in a first operating mode, controlling the flow control valve to direct clean water to the first clean water line while restricting clean water flow to the second clean water line; in a second operating mode, controlling the flow control valve to direct clean water to the second clean water line while restricting clean water flow to the first clean water line; in, In the first operating mode, the recirculation module does not receive recirculation water, and in the second operating mode, the recirculation module receives recirculation water and combines it with clean water in the second clean water line to produce a recirculation clean water mixture.

16. The piping system of claim 15, wherein the controller is configured to activate the recirculation pump in the second operating mode in response to an indication that the second operating mode has been activated, wherein the indication comprises a sensing signal of recirculating clean water through the recirculation module into the second recirculating water line.

17. The piping system of claim 12, wherein the recirculation module includes an inline cleaning device operable to generate clean water from clean water, and the recirculation module directs the clean water to the first and second recirculation water lines.

18. A recirculation module for a recirculating shower system, comprising: a recirculation housing having a first inlet for receiving fresh water and a second inlet for receiving recirculated water from the recirculating shower system; a manifold disposed within the recirculation housing for combining clean water and recirculated water into a recirculated clean water mixture; A recirculation pump is located downstream of the manifold, disposed within the recirculation housing and operable to move the recirculated clean water mixture toward an outlet of the recirculation housing.

19. The recirculation module of claim 18, further comprising an inline cleaning device disposed within the recirculation housing, the inline cleaning device operable to generate clean water from clean water, and the recirculation module directs the clean water to the outlet and the second inlet.

20. The recycling module of claim 18, further comprising: a controller configured to control operation of the recirculation pump; as well as A sensor is in communication with the controller, the sensor detecting a recirculating clean water mixture through the recirculation module, and the controller activates the recirculation pump in response to the detection.

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