Adjustable aerator

Abstract

An adjustable aerator is installed on a faucet and has a connecting seat, a dividing unit, an adjusting unit, and an outlet mesh. A through hole is formed through the connecting seat. The dividing unit is mounted in the through hole. The dividing unit has at least one slot formed through a wall of the dividing unit. The adjusting unit is movably mounted through the dividing unit and has at least one limiting part. The limiting part is convexly formed on a side wall of the adjusting unit and mounted through the slot. The outlet mesh is rotatably mounted through the through hole and has an abutting part protruding towards the adjusting unit. When the outlet mesh is rotated, the abutting part can move the adjusting unit relative to the dividing unit to adjust water output.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION1. Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerator installed on a faucet.2. Description of the Prior Arts

[0002] Most faucets are equipped with aerators. The conventional aerator is installed on the water outlet of the faucet. When water flows into the aerator, the aerator can concentrate and accelerate the water flow while simultaneously drawing in air, and mix the water and air inside before the water flows out. This mixing of water and air can generate bubbles, reducing water consumption while ensuring effective washing. Furthermore, the mixing of water and air reduces the impact force of the water flow, preventing splashing.

[0003] Water pressure varies depending on regions and floor levels. However, the conventional aerator cannot adjust the water flow according to water pressure, thus affecting the aerator's foaming effect. If the user needs to adjust the aerator's water flow, the user needs to replace the aerator with another aerator of a different flow rate, which wastes extra money and time.

[0004] To overcome the shortcomings, the present invention provides an adjustable aerator to mitigate or obviate the aforementioned problems.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The main objective of the present invention is to provide an adjustable aerator that is configured to be detachably installed on a faucet. The adjustable aerator can adjust the water output.

[0006] The adjustable aerator comprises a connecting seat, a dividing unit, an adjusting unit, and an outlet mesh.

[0007] The connecting seat is configured to be detachably mounted on the faucet and comprises a first end, a second end, and a through hole. The first end is configured to be connected to the faucet. The second end is opposite to the first end. The through hole extends from the first end to the second end.

[0008] The dividing unit is ring-shaped. The dividing unit is securely mounted in the through hole and close to the first end of the connecting seat. The dividing unit divides the through hole into a first area and a second area. The first area is configured to be close to the faucet relative to the second area, and the second area is configured to be away from the faucet relative to the first area. The dividing unit comprises at least one slot. The at least one slot is formed through a wall of the dividing unit, and an extending direction of the at least one slot is parallel to an axial direction of the through hole. The first area fluidly communicates with the second area through the at least one slot.

[0009] The adjusting unit is movably mounted through the dividing unit and comprises at least one limiting part. The at least one limiting part is formed protruding on a side wall of the adjusting unit and mounted through the at least one slot of the dividing unit. When the adjusting unit moves relative to the dividing unit, the at least one limiting part moves along the at least one slot. When the adjusting unit moves away from the first end, the at least one slot fluidly communicates between the first area and the second area. When the adjusting unit moves toward the first end, the at least one limiting part blocks a part of the at least one slot, thereby reducing a space fluidly communicating between the first area and the second area via the at least one slot.

[0010] The outlet mesh is mounted through and covers the through hole of the connecting seat, and is located on the second end. The outlet mesh is rotatable relative to the connecting seat. The outlet mesh comprises an abutting part. The abutting part protrudes towards the adjusting unit. When the outlet mesh is rotated relative to the connecting seat, the abutting part is rotated relative to the adjusting unit and moves the adjusting unit relative to the dividing unit.

[0011] The advantage of the invention is that by rotating the outlet mesh, the adjusting unit can be moved to control the flow of water through the through hole. Precisely, when the adjusting unit moves away from the first end of the connecting seat, the slot of the dividing unit is in a connection state, thereby fluidly communicating between the first area and the second area of the through hole. When the adjusting unit moves toward the first end of the connecting seat, the limiting part of the adjusting unit blocks a part of the slot, thereby reducing the flow of water through the through hole. Therefore, the user can adjust the water output of the aerator according to the water pressure of the faucet, without having to replace aerators with different flow rates, thus saving money and time.

[0012] Other objectives, advantages and novel features of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an adjustable aerator in accordance with the present invention;

[0014] FIG. 2 is another perspective view of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1;

[0015] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the first embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1;

[0016] FIG. 4 is another exploded view of the first embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1;

[0017] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1, shown in the first state;

[0018] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1, shown in the second state;

[0019] FIG. 7 is another cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1, shown in the first state;

[0020] FIG. 8 is another cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1, shown in the second state;

[0021] FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the second embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1;

[0022] FIG. 10 is another exploded view of the second embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1;

[0023] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the second embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1, shown in the first state;

[0024] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the second embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1, shown in the second state;

[0025] FIG. 13 is another cross-sectional view of the second embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1, shown in the first state; and

[0026] FIG. 14 is another cross-sectional view of the second embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1, shown in the second state.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0027] With reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 4, an adjustable aerator in accordance with the present invention is configured to be detachably installed on a water outlet of a faucet. The adjustable aerator comprises a connecting seat 10, a dividing unit 20, an adjusting unit 30, an outlet mesh 40, a filter 50, and a fixing unit 60.

[0028] With reference to FIG. 5 to FIG. 8, the connecting seat 10 is configured to be detachably mounted on the water outlet of the faucet and comprises a first end 11, a second end 12, a through hole 13, a thread 14, a blocker 15, and multiple keyways 16. The first end 11 is close to the faucet relative to the second end 12. The second end 12 is opposite to the first end 11 and away from the faucet relative to the first end 11. The through hole 13 extends from the first end 11 to the second end 12. Water from the faucet flows from the first end 11 into the through hole 13 and flows out from the second end 12. The thread 14 is formed on an outer side of the connecting seat 10. Therefore, the adjustable aerator can be threaded with the water outlet of the faucet through the thread 14 and thus installed on the water outlet of the faucet. The blocker 15 and the keyways 16 are located on a same cross section of the through hole 13 and close to the second end 12. The blocker 15 protrudes from a wall of the through hole 13, and the keyways 16 are concavely formed on the wall of the through hole 13. In the first embodiment, the keyways 16 are formed on the wall of one half of the through hole 13, that is, the keyways 16 are arranged at spaced intervals to form a semi-circular arc.

[0029] The dividing unit 20 is ring-shaped. The dividing unit 20 is securely mounted in the through hole 13 and close to the first end 11 of the connecting seat 10. An axial direction of the dividing unit 20 is parallel to an axial direction of the through hole 13. The dividing unit 20 comprises at least one slot 21. The slot 21 is formed through a wall of the dividing unit 20, and an extending direction of the slot 21 is parallel to the axial direction of the through hole 13. The dividing unit 20 divides the through hole 13 into a first area 131 and a second area 132. The first area 131 is close to the faucet relative to the second area 132, and the second area 132 is away from the faucet relative to the first area 131. The first area 131 fluidly communicates with the second area 132 through the slot 21.

[0030] The adjusting unit 30 is movably mounted through the dividing unit 20, and the adjusting unit 30 comprises at least one limiting part 31 and a cavity 32. The limiting part 31 is formed protruding on a side wall of the adjusting unit 30 and mounted through the slot 21 of the dividing unit 20. When the adjusting unit 30 moves relative to the dividing unit 20, the limiting part 31 moves along the slot 21. When the adjusting unit 30 moves away from the first end 11, the slot 21 fluidly communicates between the first area 131 and the second area 132. When the adjusting unit 30 moves toward the first end 11, the limiting part 31 blocks a part of the slot 21. Therefore, a space fluidly communicating between the first area 131 and the second area 132 via the slot 21 is reduced, thereby reducing the amount of water flowing from the first area 131 into the second area 132. An opening of the cavity 32 is towards the second end 12. In the first embodiment, a bottom of the cavity 32 is a first inclined surface 33, and the first inclined surface 33 is non-perpendicular to the wall of the dividing unit 20.

[0031] In another embodiment, at least one channel can be formed in the connecting seat 10, and the dividing unit 20 and the adjusting unit 30 are not mounted in the at least one channel, such that the at least one channel can always maintain flow.

[0032] The outlet mesh 40 is mounted through and covers the through hole 13 of the connecting seat 10, and is located on the second end 12. The outlet mesh 40 can be rotated relative to the connecting seat 10 and comprises at least one protrusion 41, a key part 42, a compressible space 43, and an abutting part 44. The protrusion 41, the blocker 15, the keyways 16, the key part 42, and the compressible space 43 are located on the same cross section of the through hole 13. In the first embodiment, the outlet mesh 40 includes two said protrusions 41, and the two protrusions 41 are respectively a first protrusion and a second protrusion. The first protrusion and the second protrusion are respectively located on two sides of the outlet mesh 40, and protrude towards the wall of the through hole 13. The outlet mesh 40 can be rotated until a side of the first protrusion or a side of the second protrusion abuts against a side of the blocker 15. The key part 42 protrudes towards the wall of the through hole 13, and can be engaged with the one of the keyways 16. In the first embodiment, the key part 42 is formed on the first protrusion, but it is not limited thereto. The compressible space 43 is formed at a spaced interval from the key part 42, and the compressible space 43 and the key part 42 are located on a same radial direction of the through hole 13. When the outlet mesh 40 is rotated, the compressible space 43 can be compressed, thereby allowing the key part 42 to move from one of the keyways 16 into another one of the keyways 16.

[0033] The abutting part 44 protrudes towards the adjusting unit 30. When the outlet mesh 40 is rotated relative to the connecting seat 10, the abutting part 44 can be rotated relative to the adjusting unit 30, and cause the adjusting unit 30 to move relative to the dividing unit 20. Precisely, in the first embodiment, an end surface of the abutting part 44 close to the adjusting unit 30 is a second inclined surface 45. When the side of the first protrusion abuts against the side of the blocker 15, the adjusting unit 30 moves away from the first end 11, and the first inclined surface 33 is attached to the second inclined surface 45. When the outlet mesh 40 rotates 180 degrees, the side of the second protrusion abuts against the side of the blocker 15, and the abutting part 44 rotates to an upper edge of the second inclined surface 45 and abuts against a lower edge of the first inclined surface 33, thereby causing the adjusting unit 30 to move toward the first end 11.

[0034] The filter 50 is detachably mounted on the first end 11 of the connecting seat 10 and covers the through hole 13 to filter off impurities flowing out of the faucet. The fixing unit 60 is ring-shaped and securely mounted in the through hole 13 of the connecting seat 10. The fixing unit 60 is located between the dividing unit 20 and the outlet mesh 40, and an inner diameter of the fixing unit 60 close to the first end 11 is smaller than an inner diameter of the fixing unit 60 close to the second end 12. Therefore, when water flows from the first end 11 to the second end 12, a part of the fixing unit 60 close to the second end 12 generates a negative pressure, and air is drawn into the through hole 13 from the second end 12, such that water and air mix in the through hole 13 and then flow out from the outlet mesh 40. In another embodiment, the fixing unit 60 and the connecting seat 10 can be integrally formed, but it is not limited thereto.

[0035] First, the connecting seat 10 is threaded into the water outlet of the faucet through the thread 14 outside the connecting seat 10, thereby installing the adjustable aerator on the faucet. Water flows form the first end 11 into the first area 131 of the through hole 13, and enters the second area 132 through the slot 21 of the dividing unit 20. The water then flows through the fixing unit 60 and into a larger space to generate a negative pressure. Said negative pressure draws air into the through hole 13 from holes around the outlet mesh 40, causing the air to mix with the water and generate bubbles. Finally, the water flows out from the second end 12.

[0036] When the user wants to increase the water output of the aerator, the user rotates the outlet mesh 40 until the side of the first protrusion abuts against the side of the blocker 15, and moves the adjusting unit 30 away from the first end 11, and the first inclined surface 33 is attached to the second inclined surface 45. At this time, the water output of the aerator is at its maximum. When the user wants to reduce the water output of the aerator, the user rotates the outlet mesh 40 until the side of the second protrusion abuts against the side of the blocker 15, and rotates the abutting part 44 until the upper edge of the second inclined surface 45 abuts against the lower edge of the first inclined surface 33, thereby moving the adjusting unit 30 toward the first end 11. At this time, the water output of the aerator is at its minimum.

[0037] With reference to FIG. 9 to FIG. 14, the second embodiment is similar to the first embodiment. The difference is that, in the second embodiment, the bottom of the cavity 32 and the end surface of the abutting part 44 close to the adjusting unit 30 are not inclined surfaces. Precisely, in the second embodiment, the adjusting unit 30 further comprises an engaged part 34. The engaged part 34 is formed protruding on a side wall of the cavity 32. The outlet mesh 40 further comprises an engaged groove 46. The engaged groove 46 is concavely formed on a side of the abutting part 44 and spirally surrounds the abutting part 44. When the adjusting unit 30 moves away from the first end 11, the engaged part 34 is located on an end of the engaged groove 46 away from the first end 11. At this time, the water output of the aerator is at its maximum. When the outlet mesh 40 is rotated, the engaged part 34 moves along the engaged groove 46 and moves to an end of the engaged groove 46 close to the first end 11, thereby moving the adjusting unit 30 toward the first end 11. At this time, the water output of the aerator is at its minimum.

[0038] Another difference is that, the outlet mesh 40 only has one protrusion 41, and the keyways 16 surround the through hole 13. Therefore, the outlet mesh 40 can be rotated 360 degrees. Precisely, when the outlet mesh 40 is rotated until a side of the protrusion 41 abuts against the side of the blocker 15, the engaged part 34 is located on the end of the engaged groove 46 away from the first end 11, and the adjusting unit 30 moves away from the first end 11. When the outlet mesh 40 is rotated until another side of the protrusion 41 abuts against the side of the blocker 15, the engaged part 34 is located on the end of the engaged groove 46 close to the first end 11, and the adjusting unit 30 moves toward the first end 11.

[0039] The advantage of the invention is that by rotating the outlet mesh 40, the adjusting unit 30 can be moved to control the flow of water through the through hole 13. Precisely, when the adjusting unit 30 moves away from the first end 11 of the connecting seat 10, the slot 21 of the dividing unit 20 is in a connection state, thereby fluidly communicating between the first area 131

[0040] and the second area 132 of the through hole 13. When the adjusting unit 30 moves toward the first end 11 of the connecting seat 10, the limiting part 31 of the adjusting unit 30 blocks a part of the slot 21, thereby reducing the flow of water through the through hole 13. Therefore, the user can adjust the water output of the aerator according to the water pressure of the faucet, without having to replace aerators with different flow rates, thus saving money and time.

[0041] Even though numerous characteristics and advantages of the present invention have been set forth in the foregoing description, together with details of the structure and features of the invention, the disclosure is illustrative only. Changes may be made in the details, especially in matters of shape, size, and arrangement of parts within the principles of the invention to the full extent indicated by the broad general meaning of the terms in which the appended claims are expressed.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0027]With reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 4, an adjustable aerator in accordance with the present invention is configured to be detachably installed on a water outlet of a faucet. The adjustable aerator comprises a connecting seat 10, a dividing unit 20, an adjusting unit 30, an outlet mesh 40, a filter 50, and a fixing unit 60.

[0028]With reference to FIG. 5 to FIG. 8, the connecting seat 10 is configured to be detachably mounted on the water outlet of the faucet and comprises a first end 11, a second end 12, a through hole 13, a thread 14, a blocker 15, and multiple keyways 16. The first end 11 is close to the faucet relative to the second end 12. The second end 12 is opposite to the first end 11 and away from the faucet relative to the first end 11. The through hole 13 extends from the first end 11 to the second end 12. Water from the faucet flows from the first end 11 into the through hole 13 and flows out from the second end 12. The thread 14 is formed on an outer side of the conne...

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION1. Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerator installed on a faucet.2. Description of the Prior Arts

[0002] Most faucets are equipped with aerators. The conventional aerator is installed on the water outlet of the faucet. When water flows into the aerator, the aerator can concentrate and accelerate the water flow while simultaneously drawing in air, and mix the water and air inside before the water flows out. This mixing of water and air can generate bubbles, reducing water consumption while ensuring effective washing. Furthermore, the mixing of water and air reduces the impact force of the water flow, preventing splashing.

[0003] Water pressure varies depending on regions and floor levels. However, the conventional aerator cannot adjust the water flow according to water pressure, thus affecting the aerator's foaming effect. If the user needs to adjust the aerator's water flow, the user needs to replace the aerator with another aerator of a different flow rate, which wastes extra money and time.

[0004] To overcome the shortcomings, the present invention provides an adjustable aerator to mitigate or obviate the aforementioned problems.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The main objective of the present invention is to provide an adjustable aerator that is configured to be detachably installed on a faucet. The adjustable aerator can adjust the water output.

[0006] The adjustable aerator comprises a connecting seat, a dividing unit, an adjusting unit, and an outlet mesh.

[0007] The connecting seat is configured to be detachably mounted on the faucet and comprises a first end, a second end, and a through hole. The first end is configured to be connected to the faucet. The second end is opposite to the first end. The through hole extends from the first end to the second end.

[0008] The dividing unit is ring-shaped. The dividing unit is securely mounted in the through hole and close to the first end of the connecting seat. The dividing unit divides the through hole into a first area and a second area. The first area is configured to be close to the faucet relative to the second area, and the second area is configured to be away from the faucet relative to the first area. The dividing unit comprises at least one slot. The at least one slot is formed through a wall of the dividing unit, and an extending direction of the at least one slot is parallel to an axial direction of the through hole. The first area fluidly communicates with the second area through the at least one slot.

[0009] The adjusting unit is movably mounted through the dividing unit and comprises at least one limiting part. The at least one limiting part is formed protruding on a side wall of the adjusting unit and mounted through the at least one slot of the dividing unit. When the adjusting unit moves relative to the dividing unit, the at least one limiting part moves along the at least one slot. When the adjusting unit moves away from the first end, the at least one slot fluidly communicates between the first area and the second area. When the adjusting unit moves toward the first end, the at least one limiting part blocks a part of the at least one slot, thereby reducing a space fluidly communicating between the first area and the second area via the at least one slot.

[0010] The outlet mesh is mounted through and covers the through hole of the connecting seat, and is located on the second end. The outlet mesh is rotatable relative to the connecting seat. The outlet mesh comprises an abutting part. The abutting part protrudes towards the adjusting unit. When the outlet mesh is rotated relative to the connecting seat, the abutting part is rotated relative to the adjusting unit and moves the adjusting unit relative to the dividing unit.

[0011] The advantage of the invention is that by rotating the outlet mesh, the adjusting unit can be moved to control the flow of water through the through hole. Precisely, when the adjusting unit moves away from the first end of the connecting seat, the slot of the dividing unit is in a connection state, thereby fluidly communicating between the first area and the second area of the through hole. When the adjusting unit moves toward the first end of the connecting seat, the limiting part of the adjusting unit blocks a part of the slot, thereby reducing the flow of water through the through hole. Therefore, the user can adjust the water output of the aerator according to the water pressure of the faucet, without having to replace aerators with different flow rates, thus saving money and time.

[0012] Other objectives, advantages and novel features of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an adjustable aerator in accordance with the present invention;

[0014] FIG. 2 is another perspective view of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1;

[0015] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the first embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1;

[0016] FIG. 4 is another exploded view of the first embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1;

[0017] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1, shown in the first state;

[0018] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1, shown in the second state;

[0019] FIG. 7 is another cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1, shown in the first state;

[0020] FIG. 8 is another cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1, shown in the second state;

[0021] FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the second embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1;

[0022] FIG. 10 is another exploded view of the second embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1;

[0023] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the second embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1, shown in the first state;

[0024] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the second embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1, shown in the second state;

[0025] FIG. 13 is another cross-sectional view of the second embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1, shown in the first state; and

[0026] FIG. 14 is another cross-sectional view of the second embodiment of the adjustable aerator in FIG. 1, shown in the second state.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0027] With reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 4, an adjustable aerator in accordance with the present invention is configured to be detachably installed on a water outlet of a faucet. The adjustable aerator comprises a connecting seat 10, a dividing unit 20, an adjusting unit 30, an outlet mesh 40, a filter 50, and a fixing unit 60.

[0028] With reference to FIG. 5 to FIG. 8, the connecting seat 10 is configured to be detachably mounted on the water outlet of the faucet and comprises a first end 11, a second end 12, a through hole 13, a thread 14, a blocker 15, and multiple keyways 16. The first end 11 is close to the faucet relative to the second end 12. The second end 12 is opposite to the first end 11 and away from the faucet relative to the first end 11. The through hole 13 extends from the first end 11 to the second end 12. Water from the faucet flows from the first end 11 into the through hole 13 and flows out from the second end 12. The thread 14 is formed on an outer side of the connecting seat 10. Therefore, the adjustable aerator can be threaded with the water outlet of the faucet through the thread 14 and thus installed on the water outlet of the faucet. The blocker 15 and the keyways 16 are located on a same cross section of the through hole 13 and close to the second end 12. The blocker 15 protrudes from a wall of the through hole 13, and the keyways 16 are concavely formed on the wall of the through hole 13. In the first embodiment, the keyways 16 are formed on the wall of one half of the through hole 13, that is, the keyways 16 are arranged at spaced intervals to form a semi-circular arc.

[0029] The dividing unit 20 is ring-shaped. The dividing unit 20 is securely mounted in the through hole 13 and close to the first end 11 of the connecting seat 10. An axial direction of the dividing unit 20 is parallel to an axial direction of the through hole 13. The dividing unit 20 comprises at least one slot 21. The slot 21 is formed through a wall of the dividing unit 20, and an extending direction of the slot 21 is parallel to the axial direction of the through hole 13. The dividing unit 20 divides the through hole 13 into a first area 131 and a second area 132. The first area 131 is close to the faucet relative to the second area 132, and the second area 132 is away from the faucet relative to the first area 131. The first area 131 fluidly communicates with the second area 132 through the slot 21.

[0030] The adjusting unit 30 is movably mounted through the dividing unit 20, and the adjusting unit 30 comprises at least one limiting part 31 and a cavity 32. The limiting part 31 is formed protruding on a side wall of the adjusting unit 30 and mounted through the slot 21 of the dividing unit 20. When the adjusting unit 30 moves relative to the dividing unit 20, the limiting part 31 moves along the slot 21. When the adjusting unit 30 moves away from the first end 11, the slot 21 fluidly communicates between the first area 131 and the second area 132. When the adjusting unit 30 moves toward the first end 11, the limiting part 31 blocks a part of the slot 21. Therefore, a space fluidly communicating between the first area 131 and the second area 132 via the slot 21 is reduced, thereby reducing the amount of water flowing from the first area 131 into the second area 132. An opening of the cavity 32 is towards the second end 12. In the first embodiment, a bottom of the cavity 32 is a first inclined surface 33, and the first inclined surface 33 is non-perpendicular to the wall of the dividing unit 20.

[0031] In another embodiment, at least one channel can be formed in the connecting seat 10, and the dividing unit 20 and the adjusting unit 30 are not mounted in the at least one channel, such that the at least one channel can always maintain flow.

[0032] The outlet mesh 40 is mounted through and covers the through hole 13 of the connecting seat 10, and is located on the second end 12. The outlet mesh 40 can be rotated relative to the connecting seat 10 and comprises at least one protrusion 41, a key part 42, a compressible space 43, and an abutting part 44. The protrusion 41, the blocker 15, the keyways 16, the key part 42, and the compressible space 43 are located on the same cross section of the through hole 13. In the first embodiment, the outlet mesh 40 includes two said protrusions 41, and the two protrusions 41 are respectively a first protrusion and a second protrusion. The first protrusion and the second protrusion are respectively located on two sides of the outlet mesh 40, and protrude towards the wall of the through hole 13. The outlet mesh 40 can be rotated until a side of the first protrusion or a side of the second protrusion abuts against a side of the blocker 15. The key part 42 protrudes towards the wall of the through hole 13, and can be engaged with the one of the keyways 16. In the first embodiment, the key part 42 is formed on the first protrusion, but it is not limited thereto. The compressible space 43 is formed at a spaced interval from the key part 42, and the compressible space 43 and the key part 42 are located on a same radial direction of the through hole 13. When the outlet mesh 40 is rotated, the compressible space 43 can be compressed, thereby allowing the key part 42 to move from one of the keyways 16 into another one of the keyways 16.

[0033] The abutting part 44 protrudes towards the adjusting unit 30. When the outlet mesh 40 is rotated relative to the connecting seat 10, the abutting part 44 can be rotated relative to the adjusting unit 30, and cause the adjusting unit 30 to move relative to the dividing unit 20. Precisely, in the first embodiment, an end surface of the abutting part 44 close to the adjusting unit 30 is a second inclined surface 45. When the side of the first protrusion abuts against the side of the blocker 15, the adjusting unit 30 moves away from the first end 11, and the first inclined surface 33 is attached to the second inclined surface 45. When the outlet mesh 40 rotates 180 degrees, the side of the second protrusion abuts against the side of the blocker 15, and the abutting part 44 rotates to an upper edge of the second inclined surface 45 and abuts against a lower edge of the first inclined surface 33, thereby causing the adjusting unit 30 to move toward the first end 11.

[0034] The filter 50 is detachably mounted on the first end 11 of the connecting seat 10 and covers the through hole 13 to filter off impurities flowing out of the faucet. The fixing unit 60 is ring-shaped and securely mounted in the through hole 13 of the connecting seat 10. The fixing unit 60 is located between the dividing unit 20 and the outlet mesh 40, and an inner diameter of the fixing unit 60 close to the first end 11 is smaller than an inner diameter of the fixing unit 60 close to the second end 12. Therefore, when water flows from the first end 11 to the second end 12, a part of the fixing unit 60 close to the second end 12 generates a negative pressure, and air is drawn into the through hole 13 from the second end 12, such that water and air mix in the through hole 13 and then flow out from the outlet mesh 40. In another embodiment, the fixing unit 60 and the connecting seat 10 can be integrally formed, but it is not limited thereto.

[0035] First, the connecting seat 10 is threaded into the water outlet of the faucet through the thread 14 outside the connecting seat 10, thereby installing the adjustable aerator on the faucet. Water flows form the first end 11 into the first area 131 of the through hole 13, and enters the second area 132 through the slot 21 of the dividing unit 20. The water then flows through the fixing unit 60 and into a larger space to generate a negative pressure. Said negative pressure draws air into the through hole 13 from holes around the outlet mesh 40, causing the air to mix with the water and generate bubbles. Finally, the water flows out from the second end 12.

[0036] When the user wants to increase the water output of the aerator, the user rotates the outlet mesh 40 until the side of the first protrusion abuts against the side of the blocker 15, and moves the adjusting unit 30 away from the first end 11, and the first inclined surface 33 is attached to the second inclined surface 45. At this time, the water output of the aerator is at its maximum. When the user wants to reduce the water output of the aerator, the user rotates the outlet mesh 40 until the side of the second protrusion abuts against the side of the blocker 15, and rotates the abutting part 44 until the upper edge of the second inclined surface 45 abuts against the lower edge of the first inclined surface 33, thereby moving the adjusting unit 30 toward the first end 11. At this time, the water output of the aerator is at its minimum.

[0037] With reference to FIG. 9 to FIG. 14, the second embodiment is similar to the first embodiment. The difference is that, in the second embodiment, the bottom of the cavity 32 and the end surface of the abutting part 44 close to the adjusting unit 30 are not inclined surfaces. Precisely, in the second embodiment, the adjusting unit 30 further comprises an engaged part 34. The engaged part 34 is formed protruding on a side wall of the cavity 32. The outlet mesh 40 further comprises an engaged groove 46. The engaged groove 46 is concavely formed on a side of the abutting part 44 and spirally surrounds the abutting part 44. When the adjusting unit 30 moves away from the first end 11, the engaged part 34 is located on an end of the engaged groove 46 away from the first end 11. At this time, the water output of the aerator is at its maximum. When the outlet mesh 40 is rotated, the engaged part 34 moves along the engaged groove 46 and moves to an end of the engaged groove 46 close to the first end 11, thereby moving the adjusting unit 30 toward the first end 11. At this time, the water output of the aerator is at its minimum.

[0038] Another difference is that, the outlet mesh 40 only has one protrusion 41, and the keyways 16 surround the through hole 13. Therefore, the outlet mesh 40 can be rotated 360 degrees. Precisely, when the outlet mesh 40 is rotated until a side of the protrusion 41 abuts against the side of the blocker 15, the engaged part 34 is located on the end of the engaged groove 46 away from the first end 11, and the adjusting unit 30 moves away from the first end 11. When the outlet mesh 40 is rotated until another side of the protrusion 41 abuts against the side of the blocker 15, the engaged part 34 is located on the end of the engaged groove 46 close to the first end 11, and the adjusting unit 30 moves toward the first end 11.

[0039] The advantage of the invention is that by rotating the outlet mesh 40, the adjusting unit 30 can be moved to control the flow of water through the through hole 13. Precisely, when the adjusting unit 30 moves away from the first end 11 of the connecting seat 10, the slot 21 of the dividing unit 20 is in a connection state, thereby fluidly communicating between the first area 131

[0040] and the second area 132 of the through hole 13. When the adjusting unit 30 moves toward the first end 11 of the connecting seat 10, the limiting part 31 of the adjusting unit 30 blocks a part of the slot 21, thereby reducing the flow of water through the through hole 13. Therefore, the user can adjust the water output of the aerator according to the water pressure of the faucet, without having to replace aerators with different flow rates, thus saving money and time.

[0041] Even though numerous characteristics and advantages of the present invention have been set forth in the foregoing description, together with details of the structure and features of the invention, the disclosure is illustrative only. Changes may be made in the details, especially in matters of shape, size, and arrangement of parts within the principles of the invention to the full extent indicated by the broad general meaning of the terms in which the appended claims are expressed.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0027]With reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 4, an adjustable aerator in accordance with the present invention is configured to be detachably installed on a water outlet of a faucet. The adjustable aerator comprises a connecting seat 10, a dividing unit 20, an adjusting unit 30, an outlet mesh 40, a filter 50, and a fixing unit 60.

[0028]With reference to FIG. 5 to FIG. 8, the connecting seat 10 is configured to be detachably mounted on the water outlet of the faucet and comprises a first end 11, a second end 12, a through hole 13, a thread 14, a blocker 15, and multiple keyways 16. The first end 11 is close to the faucet relative to the second end 12. The second end 12 is opposite to the first end 11 and away from the faucet relative to the first end 11. The through hole 13 extends from the first end 11 to the second end 12. Water from the faucet flows from the first end 11 into the through hole 13 and flows out from the second end 12. The thread 14 is formed on an outer side of the conne...

Claims

1. An adjustable aerator configured to be detachably installed on a faucet; the adjustable aerator comprising:a connecting seat configured to be detachably mounted on the faucet; the connecting seat comprising:a first end configured to be connected to the faucet;a second end opposite to the first end; anda through hole extending from the first end to the second end;a dividing unit being ring-shaped; the dividing unit securely mounted in the through hole and close to the first end of the connecting seat; the dividing unit dividing the through hole into a first area and a second area; the first area configured to be close to the faucet relative to the second area, and the second area configured to be away from the faucet relative to the first area; the dividing unit comprising:at least one slot formed through a wall of the dividing unit, and an extending direction of the at least one slot parallel to an axial direction of the through hole; the first area fluidly communicating with the second area through the at least one slot;an adjusting unit movably mounted through the dividing unit; the adjusting unit comprising:at least one limiting part formed protruding on a side wall of the adjusting unit and mounted through the at least one slot of the dividing unit; when the adjusting unit moves relative to the dividing unit, the at least one limiting part moving along the at least one slot; when the adjusting unit moves in a direction away from the first end, the at least one slot fluidly communicating between the first area and the second area; when the adjusting unit moves toward the first end, the at least one limiting part blocking a part of the at least one slot, thereby reducing a space fluidly communicating between the first area and the second area via the at least one slot; andan outlet mesh mounted through and covering the through hole of the connecting seat, and located on the second end; the outlet mesh being rotatable relative to the connecting seat; the outlet mesh comprising:an abutting part protruding towards the adjusting unit; when the outlet mesh is rotated relative to the connecting seat, the abutting part rotated relative to the adjusting unit and moving the adjusting unit relative to the dividing unit.

2. The adjustable aerator as claimed in claim 1, wherein the adjustable aerator comprises a fixing unit; the fixing unit being ring-shaped and securely mounted in the through hole of the connecting seat; an inner diameter of the fixing unit close to the first end being smaller than an inner diameter of the fixing unit close to the second end.

3. The adjustable aerator as claimed in claim 1, wherein:the connecting seat comprises:a blocker protruding from a wall of the through hole; andthe outlet mesh comprises:at least one protrusion protruding towards the wall of the through hole, and the at least one protrusion and the blocker located on a same cross section of the through hole; the outlet mesh capable of being rotated until a side of the at least one protrusion abuts against a side of the blocker.

4. The adjustable aerator as claimed in claim 2, wherein:the connecting seat comprises:a blocker protruding from a wall of the through hole; andthe outlet mesh comprises:at least one protrusion protruding towards the wall of the through hole, and the at least one protrusion and the blocker located on a same cross section of the through hole; the outlet mesh capable of being rotated until a side of the at least one protrusion abuts against a side of the blocker.

5. The adjustable aerator as claimed in claim 1, wherein the connecting seat comprises a thread; the thread formed on an outer side of the connecting seat; the adjustable aerator configured to be threaded into the faucet through the thread.

6. The adjustable aerator as claimed in claim 4, wherein the connecting seat comprises a thread; the thread formed on an outer side of the connecting seat; the adjustable aerator configured to be threaded into the faucet through the thread.

7. The adjustable aerator as claimed in claim 1, wherein the adjustable aerator comprises a filter; the filter detachably mounted on the first end of the connecting seat and covering the through hole.

8. The adjustable aerator as claimed in claim 6, wherein the adjustable aerator comprises a filter; the filter detachably mounted on the first end of the connecting seat and covering the through hole.

9. The adjustable aerator as claimed in claim 1, wherein:the connecting seat comprises:multiple keyways concavely formed in a wall of the through hole; andthe outlet mesh comprises:a key part protruding towards the wall of the through hole; the key part and the multiple keyways located on a same cross section of the through hole; when the outlet mesh is rotated, the key part capable of moving from one of the multiple keyways into another one of the multiple keyways.

10. The adjustable aerator as claimed in claim 8, wherein:the connecting seat comprises:multiple keyways concavely formed in the wall of the through hole; andthe outlet mesh comprises:a key part protruding towards the wall of the through hole; the key part and the multiple keyways located on the same cross section of the through hole; when the outlet mesh is rotated, the key part capable of moving from one of the multiple keyways into another one of the multiple keyways.

11. The adjustable aerator as claimed in claim 9, wherein the outlet mesh comprises a compressible space; the compressible space formed at a spaced interval from the key part, and the compressible space and the key part located on a same radial direction of the through hole.

12. The adjustable aerator as claimed in claim 10, wherein the outlet mesh comprises a compressible space; the compressible space formed at a spaced interval from the key part, and the compressible space and the key part located on a same radial direction of the through hole.

13. The adjustable aerator as claimed in claim 9, wherein the multiple keyways surround the through hole.

14. The adjustable aerator as claimed in claim 12, wherein the multiple keyways surround the through hole.

15. The adjustable aerator as claimed in claim 1, wherein:the adjusting unit comprises:a cavity; an opening of the cavity being towards the second end; a bottom of the cavity being a first inclined surface; the first inclined surface non-perpendicular to the wall of the dividing unit;an end surface of the abutting part close to the adjusting unit is a second inclined surface; andwhen the adjusting unit moves away from the first end, the first inclined surface is attached to the second inclined surface; when the outlet mesh rotates 180 degrees, a lower edge of the first inclined surface abuts against an upper edge of the second inclined surface, thereby moving the adjusting unit toward the first end.

16. The adjustable aerator as claimed in claim 14, wherein:the adjusting unit comprises:a cavity; an opening of the cavity being towards the second end; a bottom of the cavity being a first inclined surface; the first inclined surface non-perpendicular to the wall of the dividing unit;an end surface of the abutting part close to the adjusting unit is a second inclined surface; andwhen the adjusting unit moves away from the first end, the first inclined surface is attached to the second inclined surface; when the outlet mesh rotates 180 degrees, a lower edge of the first inclined surface abuts against an upper edge of the second inclined surface, thereby moving the adjusting unit toward the first end.

17. The adjustable aerator as claimed in claim 1, wherein:the adjusting unit comprises:a cavity; an opening of the cavity being towards the second end; andan engaged part formed protruding on a side wall of the cavity;the outlet mesh comprises:an engaged groove concavely formed on a side of the abutting part and spirally surrounding the abutting part; andwhen the adjusting unit moves away from the first end, the engaged part is located in an end of the engaged groove away from the first end; when the outlet mesh is rotated, the engaged part moves along the engaged groove and moves to an end of the engaged groove close to the first end, thereby moving the adjusting unit toward the first end.

18. The adjustable aerator as claimed in claim 14, wherein:the adjusting unit comprises:a cavity; an opening of the cavity being towards the second end; andan engaged part convexly formed on a side wall of the cavity;the outlet mesh comprises:an engaged groove concavely formed on a side of the abutting part and spirally surrounding the abutting part; andwhen the adjusting unit moves away from the first end, the engaged part is located in an end of the engaged groove away from the first end; when the outlet mesh is rotated, the engaged part moves along the engaged groove and moves to an end of the engaged groove close to the first end, thereby moving the adjusting unit toward the first end.

Images