Showerhead and mount system

Abstract

A showerhead may include a handle and a head rotatably coupled to the handle. A mounting bracket for the showerhead may include a bracket and a bend to allow a vertical mounting of the handheld showerhead to the bracket. The mounting bracket may include a first portion defining a first longitudinal axis, and a second portion defining a second longitudinal axis offset from the first longitudinal axis by an angle. The bracket may be coupled to the second portion to receive the showerhead. The angle may orient the bracket to position the showerhead in a vertical orientation when coupled to the bracket.

Description

SHOWERHEAD AND MOUNT SYSTEMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 601,626, filed November 21, 2023, and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 609,488, filed December 13, 2023, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] One or more embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to showerheads, and more specifically, to showerheads attached to a bracket, such as handheld showerheads.BACKGROUND

[0003] Handheld showerheads are often attached to a plumbing fixture, such as a J-pipe, in a bathroom via a bracket. Some brackets position the handheld showerhead at an angle to direct fluid towards a user. Such configurations may cause a connected hose to angle towards the wall, requiring substantial space between the showerhead and the wall and / or interfering with the shower environment, such as contacting a shower caddy between the shower head and the wall. Some shower environments do not have sufficient space for a handheld showerhead. As such, there is a need for a showerhead that provides for compact installation, such as for tight or small shower environments.SUMMARY

[0004] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a handheld showerhead is disclosed. The handheld showerhead may include a handle and a head rotatably coupled to the handle at a single connection.

[0005] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a handheld showerhead is disclosed. The handheld showerhead may include a handle and a head rotatably coupled to the handle at a single connection.

[0006] Optionally, the handheld showerhead includes a pivot pin defined on an arm of the handle, wherein the head is coupled to rotate 360-degrees about the pivot pin. The handheld showerhead may include a chamber defined in the head and including a shower engine. Thehandheld showerhead may include a fluid path defined through the handle and pivot pin and into the chamber. The handheld showerhead may include a groove defined in the pivot pin. The handheld showerhead may include a clip positioned at least partially in the groove to retain the head on the pivot pin. The handheld showerhead may include a first sealing member on the pivot pin to seal a fluid passageway between the pivot pin and the head. The handheld showerhead may include a second sealing member on the pivot pin to frictionally secure the head in a position relative to the handle. The handle may define a first longitudinal axis. The pivot pin may define a second longitudinal axis perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis.

[0007] Optionally, a fluid path is defined through the single connection between the handle and the head.

[0008] A showering system may include the handheld showerhead according to any of the aforementioned examples. The showering system may include a mounting bracket configured to position the handheld showerhead in a vertical orientation.

[0009] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a mounting bracket for a handheld showerhead is disclosed. The mounting bracket may be configured to be fluidly coupled to a water source. The mounting bracket may include a first portion defining a first longitudinal axis. The mounting bracket may include a second portion defining a second longitudinal axis offset from the first longitudinal axis by an angle. The mounting bracket may include a bracket coupled to the second portion and configured to receive the handheld showerhead. The angle may orient the bracket to position the handheld showerhead, or at least a hose coupling portion of the handheld showerhead, in a vertical orientation when coupled to the bracket.

[0010] Optionally, the bracket defines a third longitudinal axis parallel to the second longitudinal axis.

[0011] Optionally, the mounting bracket includes a first coupling feature for engaging the first portion with the water source, and a second coupling feature for engaging the second portion with a hose. The first coupling feature may include a first connector for coupling to the water source, and a second connector for coupling to the first portion.

[0012] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a showering system is disclosed. The showering system may include a handheld showerhead including a handle and a head rotatablycoupled to the handle. The showering system may include a mounting bracket configured to be fluidly coupled to a water source. The mounting bracket may include a bracket and a bend to allow a vertical mounting of the handheld showerhead to the bracket.

[0013] Optionally, the showering system includes a hose fluidly connecting the handheld showerhead to the mounting bracket, wherein the bracket positions at least a portion of the hose in a vertical orientation. The mounting bracket may include a first portion defining a first longitudinal axis, and a second portion defining a second longitudinal axis offset from the first longitudinal axis by an angle to define the bend, the bracket positioned between the bend and a connection to the hose.

[0014] Optionally, the bracket is configured to receive the handheld showerhead to dock the handle in a vertical orientation.

[0015] Optionally, the showering system includes a two-part connection for coupling the mounting bracket to the water source. The two-part connection may include a first connector for coupling to the water source, and a second connector for coupling to the mounting bracket.

[0016] Optionally, the handle includes a single arm, and wherein the head is rotatably coupled to the single arm. The showering system may include a pivot pin defined on the single arm, wherein the head is coupled to rotate 360-degrees about the pivot pin. The head may rotate about an axis perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the handle.

[0017] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a handheld showerhead is disclosed. The handheld showerhead may include a handle defining at least one arm. The handheld showerhead may include a head rotatably coupled to the at least one arm. The handheld showerhead may include a fluid passageway defined in a single arm of the at least one arm.

[0018] Optionally, the handheld showerhead includes a pivot pin defining a rotation axis of the head relative to the handle. The handheld showerhead may include a chamber defined in the head, and the fluid passageway defined through the handle and pivot pin and into the chamber. The handheld showerhead may include a first sealing member on the pivot pin to seal the fluid passageway, and a second sealing member to frictionally secure the head in a position relative to the handle.

[0019] Optionally, the at least one arm includes a first arm and a second arm. The handheld showerhead may include a multipart attachment assembly securing the head to the handle. The multipart attachment assembly may include a first portion associated with the head, and a second portion associated with the handle, the first portion and the second portion engaged to tie rotation of the second portion with rotation of the first portion. The head may be secured in place via the first arm. The fluid passageway may be defined through the second arm.

[0020] A showering system may include a handheld showerhead according to any of the aforementioned examples. The showering system may include a mounting bracket configured to position at least a hose coupling portion of the handheld showerhead in a vertical orientation. The mounting bracket may include a bracket and a bend to allow a vertical mounting of the handheld showerhead to the bracket.

[0021] One of skill in the art will understand that each of the various aspects and features of the disclosure may advantageously be used separately in some instances, or in combination with other aspects and features of the disclosure in other instances. Accordingly, individual aspects can be claimed separately or in combination with other aspects and features. Thus, the present disclosure is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the claimed invention or its applications or uses. It is to be understood that structural and / or logical changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0022] The present disclosure is set forth in various levels of detail and no limitation as to the scope of the claimed subject matter is intended by either the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, or the like in this summary. In certain instances, details that are not necessary for an understanding of the disclosure or that render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted. Moreover, for the purposes of clarity, detailed descriptions of certain features will not be discussed when they would be apparent to those with skill in the art so as not to obscure the description of the present disclosure. The claimed subject matter is not necessarily limited to the arrangements illustrated herein, with the scope of the present disclosure is defined only by the appended claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The description will be more fully understood with reference to the following figures in which components may not be drawn to scale, which are presented as various embodiments described herein and should not be construed as a complete depiction of the scope of the disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a showerhead system in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of a mounting bracket in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 3A is a side view of a handheld showerhead coupled to a mounting bracket in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 3B is a side view of the handheld showerhead coupled to a supplemental mounting bracket in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the handheld showerhead, with portions of the handheld showerhead removed for illustration purposes, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the handheld showerhead in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0030] FIGS. 6A-6B are exploded views of a head of the handheld showerhead in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 7 illustrates a fluid path defined through the handheld showerhead in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 8 is a front isometric view of another handheld showerhead in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 9 is a rear isometric view of the handheld showerhead of FIG. 8 in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0034] FIGS. 10A-10B are exploded views of the handheld showerhead of FIG. 8, with portions of the handheld showerhead removed for illustration purposes, in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 1 1 is a cross-sectional view of the handheld showerhead of FIG. 8 in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0036] FIGS. 12A-12B are exploded views of a head of the handheld showerhead of FIG. 8 in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 13 is a side view of another handheld showerhead in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0038] Embodiments of the disclosure and their advantages are best understood by referring to the detailed description that follows. It should be appreciated that like reference numerals may be used to identify like elements illustrated in one or more of the figures.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a showerhead having a handle and a head rotatably coupled to the handle at a single connection. The single connection may allow the head to rotate in the vertical plane to adjust the spray direction vertically (e.g., upwards and downwards). A mounting bracket for the showerhead may include a bracket (e.g., a C-clamp) and a bend to allow a vertical mounting of the showerhead to the bracket. As one example, the mounting bracket may include a first portion defining a first longitudinal axis, and a second portion defining a second longitudinal axis offset from the first longitudinal axis by an angle. The angle may orient the bracket to position the showerhead (e.g., a handle of the showerhead) in a vertical orientation when coupled to the bracket. By positioning the showerhead vertically when coupled to the bracket, a connected hose may hang vertical (e.g., straight down), thereby providing a compact stored or docked configuration of the showerhead. The mounting bracket may also space the showerhead and hose away from the wall, such as to allow installation of a shower caddy between the showerhead and the wall.

[0040] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a showerhead system 100. The showerhead system 100 may include a showerhead 102 and a mounting bracket 104. The showerhead 102 may be fluidly coupled to the mounting bracket 104 by a hose 108, and the mounting bracket 104 may be fluidly coupled to a water outlet (see FIG. 3A), such as a J-pipe or other pipe, as described below. In embodiments, the showerhead system 100 may include a supplemental mounting bracket 114. The supplemental mounting bracket 114 may be structurally mounted to a support, such as a wall orother structural element within a shower environment. In embodiments, the supplemental mounting bracket 114 may be attachable to the support (e.g., wall) using an adhesive, such that the supplemental mounting bracket 114 can be positioned anywhere within the shower environment as convenient or desired (e.g., not be limited by the location of the water outlet). In such embodiments, the supplemental mounting bracket 114 may provide a supplemental mounting location for the showerhead 102 within the shower environment.

[0041] The showerhead 102 may be a handheld showerhead including a handle 120 and a head 122 extending from the handle 120. The handle 120 may define an elongated body including an inlet 126 at a bottom end and an arm 128 at a top end. The handle 120 may include a length defining a longitudinal axis AxisuANDLE. The arm 128 may include a curved shaped to extend around at least a portion of the head 122. For example, the curved arm 128 may be offset from the longitudinal axis AXISHANDLE. In such embodiments, the curved arm 128 may define a pocket 130 or clearance cutout in which the head 122 is nested or otherwise positioned, thereby providing a compact design. As detailed more fully below, the handle 120 may be fluidly coupled to the head 122 at the arm 128. As shown, the head 122 is coupled to the handle 120 at a single connection. For example, the head 122 may be coupled to a single arm 128 of the handle 120.

[0042] The head 122 may define a rounded body for the showerhead 102. In embodiments, the head 122 includes a housing 132 and a spray face 134 coupled to the housing 132. The spray face 134 may include a plurality of nozzles 136 through which water is output. Depending on the application, the spray face 134 may be part of an engine received within the head 122 or separate therefrom. In embodiments, the head 122 may be configured to generate different spray patterns (e.g., modes). For example, a first set of nozzles 136A may generate a first spray pattern, and a second set of nozzles 136B may generate a second spray pattern different than the first spray pattern. A third set of nozzles 136C may generate a third spray pattern different than the first and second spray patterns. In embodiments, the different spray patterns may be selected by manipulating the spray face 134. For example, the spray face 134 may be rotated relative to the housing 132 by a handle 140. In such embodiments, a user may rotate the spray face 134 via the handle 140 to select a desired spray pattern.

[0043] The inlet 126 may define a hose coupling portion 144 to couple the hose 108 to the showerhead 102. In one example, the hose coupling portion 144 includes threads or other couplingelements that engage the hose 108. For example, the hose coupling portion 144 may engage a handle coupling portion 146 of the hose 108, such as via threading of the handle coupling portion 146 onto the hose coupling portion 144. The hose coupling portion 144 may be formed integrally with the handle 120 or may be a separate element, such as an insert, received therein. The hose coupling portion 144 may extend coaxial with the handle 120, or the hose coupling portion 144 may be angled relative to the handle 120.

[0044] The mounting bracket 104 may include a bracket body 150 fluidly coupled to a water source. For example, the mounting bracket 104 may include a first coupling feature 152 (e.g., threading or other releasable fasteners, including one or more couplers or connectors) for coupling the bracket body 150 to the water source (e.g., via threaded engagement to the water source). In embodiments, the mounting bracket 104 may include a second coupling feature 154 for coupling the bracket body 150 to the hose 108. The second coupling feature 154 may include threads or other coupling elements that engage a bracket coupling portion 156 of the hose 108 (e.g., via threading of the bracket coupling portion 156 onto the second coupling feature 154). The second coupling feature 154 may be formed integrally with the mounting bracket 104 or may be a separate element, such as an insert, received therein.

[0045] In embodiments, the bracket body 150 includes a bracket 160. The bracket 160 may receive a portion of the showerhead 102 (e.g., the handle 120) to mount the showerhead 102 to the mounting bracket 104. For example, the bracket 160 may include a C-clamp defining a slot 164 and a seat 166. As detailed below, the hose 108 may be inserted through the slot 164 to position at least one of the handle 120 or the hose 108 in the seat 166 (e.g., the handle coupling portion 146). In embodiments, the seat 166 may have a conical shape to match a complementary shape of the handle coupling portion 146 and / or handle 120.

[0046] The supplemental mounting bracket 114 may include a similar bracket 170. The bracket 170 may include features and elements similar to the bracket 160, described above. For example, the bracket 170 may include a C-clamp having a similar slot and seat, such as to receive and mount the showerhead 102 in a similar manner. As a result, the showerhead 102 may be mounted to the mounting bracket 104 or supplemental mounting bracket 114 as desired by the user and in similar manners. As shown, the supplemental mounting bracket 114 includes a body 172 for structurallymounting the supplemental mounting bracket 1 14 to a support, such as a wall or other structural element within a shower environment.

[0047] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the mounting bracket 104. As shown, the mounting bracket 104 includes a bend 208, such as to allow a vertical mounting of the showerhead 102 to the bracket 160, as detailed below. For example, the mounting bracket 104 may include a first portion 210 defining a first longitudinal axis Axisi, and a second portion 212 defining a second longitudinal axis Axis? offset from the first longitudinal axis Axisi by an angle A to define the bend 208. As detailed below, the angle A may be selected based on a desired orientation or position of the showerhead 102 when coupled to the bracket 160. For example, the angle A may orient the bracket 160 to position the showerhead 102 (or portions thereof) in a vertical orientation when coupled to the bracket 160, as described below. In one example, the angle A may be varied depending on the J-pipe to allow the vertical orientation of the showerhead 102.

[0048] In embodiments, the bracket 160 is coupled to or formed integrally with the second portion 212. As shown, the bracket 160 may define a third longitudinal axis Axiss. The third longitudinal axis Axiss may be parallel to the second longitudinal axis Axis2, although other configurations are contemplated. In embodiments, the second portion 212 includes the second coupling feature 154, such that the second coupling feature 154 engages the second portion 212 with the hose 108. In such embodiments, the bracket 160 may be positioned between the bend 208 and the second coupling feature 154 or other connection to the hose 108.

[0049] The first coupling feature 152 may engage the first portion 210 with a water source. In embodiments, the first coupling feature 152 defines a two-part connection for coupling the mounting bracket 104 to the water source. For example, the first coupling feature 152 may include a first connector 220 for coupling to the water source, and a second connector 222 for coupling to the mounting bracket 104 (e.g., the first portion 210). The first connector 220 may be a first nut for threaded engagement to the water source, and the second connecter may be a second nut for threaded engagement to the mounting bracket 104 (e.g., the first portion 210). In such embodiments, the first portion 210 may include a threaded end 226 for threaded engagement with the second connector 222.

[0050] In some embodiments, the threaded end 226 may define a cavity 230 to receive the first connector 220. As shown, the cavity 230 may have a shape complementary to an exterior shapeof the first connector 220. In such embodiments, the first connector 220 may be tightened or loosened from the water source as the mounting bracket 104 is rotated about the first longitudinal axis Axisi when the first connector 220 is positioned within the cavity 230. The second connector 222 may be threaded to the exterior of the threaded end 226, such as to secure the first connector 220 within the cavity 230 and / or capture the first connector 220 between the second connector 222 and the mounting bracket 104.

[0051] The cavity 230 may receive one or more additional elements of the mounting bracket 104. For example, a seal 234 may be positioned within the cavity 230 to seal a water passageway (e g., between the mounting bracket 104 and the first connector 220). In some embodiments, a filter screen 236 may positioned within the cavity 230. In some embodiments, a flow regulator 238 may be positioned within the cavity 230.

[0052] FIG. 3 A is a side view of the showerhead 102 coupled to the mounting bracket 104. As shown, the mounting bracket 104 may be coupled to a water source 310 (e.g., a J-pipe or other pipe), which may be structurally mounted to a support 312, such as a wall or other structural element (e.g., faucet mounted pipe) within a shower environment. The mounting bracket 104 may space the showerhead system 100 away from the support, such as to allow for a shower caddy to be mounted between the support and the showerhead system 100. In some embodiments, the mounting bracket 104 may function as a bracket to mount the shower caddy.

[0053] As shown, the showerhead 102 is coupled to the bracket 160, and the hose 108 extends between the mounting bracket 104 and the showerhead 102. The mounting bracket 104 may be configured to position the showerhead 102 in a vertical orientation. For example, the bracket 160 may be positioned to orient the handle 120 (or a portion of the handle 120) vertically when the handle 120 is docked. The angle A may be selected to orient the handle 120 in a desired position. For example, the angle A may be selected such that an axis of the handle 120 (e.g., the longitudinal axis AxisuANDLE or another axis of the handle 120) is oriented vertically, such as parallel to the support, or generally vertically. For example, the water source 310 may extend at a 45-degree angle relative to the support 312, and in such embodiments, the angle A may be 45-degrees. However, the angle A may be varied depending on the angle of the water source 310 relative to the support 312, such that the angle A is selected to allow the vertical orientation of the handle 120. Such features may be accomplished by orienting the third longitudinal axis Axiss vertically,such as parallel to the support. As shown, the angle A may be selected such that the second longitudinal axis Axis2 is also be oriented vertically, such as parallel to the support. In such embodiments, the hose 108 (or at least a portion thereof) may hang vertically or substantially vertically from the mounting bracket 104 and the showerhead 102 when docked. As a result, the hose 108 may not interfere with or otherwise contact a shower caddy positioned between the hose 108 and the support and / or otherwise allow for compact configurations, such as for use in mobile home or recreational vehicle showers, which typically do not have space for larger hose clearances or the like as typically provided by handheld showerheads.

[0054] With continued reference to FIG. 3A, the head 122 may be rotatably coupled to the handle 120. For example, the head 122 may be rotatably coupled to the single arm 128. As shown, the head 122 may rotate (e.g., 360-degrees) to adjust a spray direction of the showerhead 102. In this manner, a user may adjust the spray vertically (e.g., upwards or downwards) as desired while still maintaining the handle 120 in a vertical orientation for compactness within the shower environment. For example, the single arm connection of the handle 120 to the head 122 may support and / or otherwise allow for a compact showerhead configuration, such as for use in small or cramped spaces, compared to other configurations, including dual arm / connection configurations of larger size with the same size head. In addition, the single arm connection may still allow full rotational functionality of the head 122 relative to the handle 120. In embodiments, the handle 120 may also rotate within the bracket 160 to adjust the spray laterally (e.g., leftwards and rightwards) as desired while still maintaining the handle 120 in a vertical orientation for compactness within the shower environment. For example, the handle 120 may swivel in the seat 166 about an axis, such as the longitudinal axis AXISHANDLE of the handle 120 or an axis of the hose coupling portion 144.

[0055] FIG. 3B is a side view of the showerhead 102 coupled to the supplemental mounting bracket 114. The supplemental mounting bracket 114 may be secured to the support to position the showerhead 102 as desired within the shower environment. For example, the supplemental mounting bracket 114 may include an adhesive backing to secure the supplemental mounting bracket 114 to a wall, glass, shower enclosure, or other structure as desired. Like the mounting bracket 104, the supplemental mounting bracket 114 may be configured to position the showerhead 102 in a vertical orientation, such as aligning the handle 120 and / or hose 108 parallel to the support when the showerhead 102 is docked. Like bracket 160, the bracket 170 may allow the handle 120to swivel horizontally (e.g., leftwards and rightwards, etc.) to adjust the spray as desired while still maintaining the handle 120 in a vertical orientation for compactness within the shower environment. The supplemental mounting bracket 114 may also allow the head 122 to rotate (e.g., 360-degrees) to further adjust the spray direction of the showerhead 102, such as in a manner as described herein.

[0056] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the showerhead 102 with portions of the showerhead 102 removed for illustration purposes. The head 122 may include a port 400, such as defined in the housing 132. As shown, the port 400 extends laterally to a side of head 122, although other configurations are contemplated. The handle 120 may include a pivot pin 402. In such embodiments, the pivot pin 402 may be inserted within the port 400, such that the head 122 rotates about the pivot pin 402. For example, the pivot pin 402 may extend from the single arm 128, such as to define a longitudinal axis AxispiN about which the head 122 rotates. The longitudinal axis AxispiN of the pivot pin 402 may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis AXISHANDLE of the handle 120. In this manner, the head 122 may be rotated about the pivot pin 402 to vertically adjust the spray direction of the showerhead 102.

[0057] The pivot pin 402 may include a first sealing member 406 and a second sealing member 408. The first sealing member 406 may be an O-ring or other seal on the pivot pin 402 to seal a fluid passageway between the pivot pin 402 and the head 122. The second sealing member 408 may be an O-ring or other seal on the pivot pin 402 to frictionally secure the head 122 in a position relative to the handle 120. In embodiments, a groove 412 may be defined in the pivot pin 402, such as between the first and second sealing members 406, 408. In such embodiments, the showerhead 102 may include a clip 416 positionable within the groove 412 to retain the head 122 on the pivot pin 402, as described below. As shown, one or more fasteners 418 may secure the clip 416 in position, such as within the groove 412.

[0058] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the showerhead 102 illustrating a connection of the head 122 to the pivot pin 402. As shown, the pivot pin 402 may be inserted within the port 400, and once seated, the clip 416 may be positioned within the groove 412 to retain the head 122 on the pivot pin 402. In embodiments, the clip 416 may be moved laterally into the groove 412 and secured to the head 122 via the fasteners 418. When positioned within the groove 412, the clip 416 may limit axial movement of the pivot pin 402, such as to limit removal of the pivot pin 402from the port 400. In embodiments, the clip 416 may slide within the groove 412 and rotate around the pivot pin 402 as the head 122 is rotated. The first sealing member 406 may engage an interior surface of the port 400 to seal a fluid passageway between the pivot pin 402 and the head 122. The second sealing member 408 may engage an interior surface of the port 400 to provide friction to the head 122, such as to ensure the head 122 stays in a set orientation during use.

[0059] FIGS. 6A-6B are exploded views of the head 122. As shown, the head 122 may include a mode plate 610, a mode seal 612, a cover 616, and a shower engine 618, or any combination thereof. The mode plate 610 may be positioned within the housing 132 and include a front side 624 and a rear side 626. Referring to FIG. 6, the front side 624 may define multiple fluid chambers, such as a first chamber 630A, a second chamber 630B, and a third chamber 630C, or any combination thereof. The various chambers may be associated with the different spray patterns of the showerhead 102, discussed above. For example, the first chamber 630A may be fluidly coupled to the first set of nozzles 136A, the second chamber 630B may be fluidly coupled to the second set of nozzles 136B, and the third chamber 630C may be fluidly coupled to the third set of nozzles 136C, and so on. In such embodiments, directing fluid to one of the chambers will expel water from the associated set of nozzles (e.g., directing fluid to the first chamber 630A will output water through the first set of nozzles 136A, etc.).

[0060] Referring to FIG. 6B, a plurality of apertures may be defined on the rear side 626. For example, the rear side 626 may include a first aperture 634A, a second aperture 634B, and a third aperture 634C, among other configurations. The first aperture 634A may be fluidly coupled to the first chamber 630A to deliver fluid to the first chamber 630A via the first aperture 634A. Similarly, the second aperture 634B may be fluidly coupled to the second chamber 630B to deliver fluid to the second chamber 630B via the second aperture 634B, and the third aperture 634C may be fluidly coupled to the third chamber 630C to deliver fluid to the third chamber 630C via the third aperture 634C. In embodiments, the mode plate 610 may be coupled to the spray face 134. For example, one or more notches 640 may be defined in a peripheral edge of the mode plate 610 to receive corresponding fins 642 of the spray face 134, such that the mode plate 610 rotates with the spray face 134.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 6A, the mode seal 612 may be seated within the housing 132 and include a bore 646 defined therethrough. The bore 646 may align with one or multiple aperturesof the mode plate 610 to direct fluid through the aligned aperture(s). For example, a first position of the mode plate 610 may align the first aperture 634A with the bore 646 such that fluid is directed into the first aperture 634A via the bore 646. Second and third positions of the mode plate 610 may align the second and third apertures 634B, 634C with the bore 646, respectively, such that fluid is directed into the respective aperture via the bore 646. Additional positions are also contemplated, including positions that align multiple apertures with the bore 646. The mode seal 612 may seal against the rear side 626 of the mode plate 610. For example, the mode seal 612 may be biased into engagement with the rear side 626, such as via a spring element. In such embodiments, the mode seal 612 may seal against the mode plate 610 to seal a water passageway between the mode plate 610 and the mode seal 612.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 6B, a fluid passage 652 may be defined to direct fluid to the bore 646 of the mode seal 612. As shown, the fluid passage 652 may be defined in the rear of the housing 132 to extend from the port 400 to the mode seal 612. In such embodiments, fluid entering the port 400 will be directed to the mode seal 612 and bore 646 via the fluid passage 652, whereupon the fluid will be directed through the mode plate aperture aligned with the bore 646 to direct fluid into an associated chamber and out through associated apertures, as described above. In embodiments, the cover 616 may cover the rear of the housing 132, such as to seal the fluid passage 652.

[0063] Referring to FIG. 6A, the shower engine 618 may be positioned within the first chamber 630A. In such embodiments, fluid directed into the first chamber 630A may operate or drive the shower engine 618. In embodiments, the shower engine 618 may be a massage engine configured to provide a pulsating fluid flow through the first set of apertures. As one example, the shower engine 618 may be similar to the massage engine described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2021 / 0129162 Al, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0064] FIG. 7 illustrates an example fluid path 700 defined through the showerhead 102. As described herein, a fluid path 700 may be defined through the handle 120 and pivot pin 402 and into the head 122, such as into any one of the first chamber 630A, the second chamber 630B, or the third chamber 630C. In this manner, the fluid path 700 may be defined through a single connection between the handle 120 and the head 122. The single connection may reduce complexity at the connection between the handle 120 and the head 122, as well as provide acompact showerhead capable of adjusting a spray direction via a head rotating relative to a handle, among other benefits.

[0065] FIGS. 8-9 are isometric views of a showerhead 802. Except as otherwise noted below, the showerhead 802 may be similar to the showerhead 102 discussed above. For example, the showerhead 802 may be fluidly coupled to the mounting bracket 104 or the supplemental mounting bracket 114 (e.g., via hose 108), such as in a similar manner as described above. In addition, the showerhead 802 may be a handheld showerhead including a handle 820 and a head 822 extending from the handle 820. The handle 820 may define an elongated body including an inlet 826 at a bottom end and at least one arm (e.g., a first arm 828A and a second arm 828B) at a top end. The handle 820 may include a length defining a longitudinal axis AxisuANDLE. The arms 828A, 828B may curve to extend around at least a portion of the head 822. For example, the arms 828A, 828B may define a pocket 830 or clearance cutout in which the head 822 is nested or otherwise positioned. Similar to showerhead 102, the handle 820 may be fluidly coupled to the head 822 through a single arm (e.g., the second arm 828B).

[0066] The head 822 includes a housing 832 and a spray face 834. The spray face 834 may include a plurality of nozzles through which water is output, such as a first set of nozzles 836A configured to generate a first spray pattern, a second set of nozzles 836B configured to generate a second spray pattern different than the first spray pattern, and a third set of nozzles 836C configured to generate a third spray pattern different than the first and second spray patterns. The different spray patterns may be selected by manipulating the spray face 834, such as rotating the spray face 834 relative to the housing 832 by a handle 840.

[0067] The housing 832 may be shaped to fit at least partially between the first arm 828A and the second arm 828B, such as to allow the head 822 to rotate about an axis AXISHEAD. The axis AxisHEAD may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis AXISHANDLE of the handle 820. In this manner, the head 822 may be rotated about the axis AXISHEAD to vertically adjust the spray direction of the showerhead 802. As best shown in FIG. 9, the housing 832 may include a base 874 and a body 876 extending from the base 874. The body 876 may be shaped by a sidewall 878 extending from the base 874. The sidewall 878 may have a cylindrical or other shape allowing the body 876 to fit between the first arm 828A and the second arm 828B, such as at least partially within the pocket 830. In such examples, the handle 820 (e.g., the first arm 828A and the second arm 828B)may be rotatably coupled to the sidewall 878. The body 876 may be capped by an end wall 880. As shown in FIG. 9, the end wall 880 may extend flush or substantially flush with the first arm 828A and the second arm 828B in at least one position of the head 822 relative to the handle 820.

[0068] FIGS. 10A-10B are exploded views of the showerhead 802, with portions of the showerhead 802 removed for illustration purposes. The head 822 may include a first port 1000A and a second port 1000B, such as defined in the housing 832. The ports 1000 A, 1000B may extend or otherwise be defined on opposing sides of the head 822, such as on or within the sidewall 878. At least one of the ports (e.g., the second port 1000B) may be defined by a pivot pin 1002. The first arm 828 A may include a first aperture 1004 A, and the second arm 828B may include a second aperture 1004B. The first port 1000A may align with the first aperture 1004 A, and the second port 1000B may align with the second aperture 1004B, such as to define the rotatable connection of the head 822 to the handle 820. For example, the pivot pin 1002 may be inserted within the second aperture 1004B, such that the head 822 rotates about the pivot pin 1002. For example, rotation of the pivot pin 1002 within the second aperture 1004B may rotate the head 822 about the axis AxiSHEAD.

[0069] To secure the head 822 to the handle 820, the showerhead 802 may include an attachment assembly 1006. The attachment assembly 1006 may include a first portion 1010 and a second portion 1012. The first portion 1010 may be positioned at least partially within the housing 832. For example, the first portion 1010 may include a body 1014 that is positioned between a pair of stops 1016 defined in the housing 832. The body 1014 may engage at least one of the stops 1016 to limit a rotation of the first portion 1010 relative to the housing 832, such as to tie rotation of the first portion 1010 with rotation of the head 822. The first portion 1010 may include a first set of tines 1020 extending from the body 1014.

[0070] The second portion 1012 may be positioned at least partially within the first aperture 1004A of the handle 820. The second portion 1012 may include a second set of tines 1022 for engagement with the first set of tines 1020. For example, the first and second tines 1020, 1022 may mesh or otherwise nest with one another, such as to limit a rotation of the second portion 1012 relative to the first portion 1010 (e.g., to tie rotation of the second portion 1012 with rotation of the first portion 1010). In this manner, the second portion 1012 may rotate within the first aperture 1004A as the head 822 is rotated relative to the handle 820. The first and second portions 1010,1012 may be secured together via a fastener 1024, and the attachment assembly 1006 may be concealed by a cap 1026. Although tines are referenced, the first and second portions 1010, 1012 may include any intermeshing elements (e.g., teeth, splines, etc.) to tie rotation of the first and second portions 1010, 1012 together.

[0071] The pivot pin 1002 may include a first sealing member 1030, and the second portion 1012 may include a second sealing member 1032. The first sealing member 1030 may be an Ciring or other seal on the pivot pin 1002 to seal a fluid passageway through the handle 820 to the head 822. The second sealing member 1032 may be an O-ring or other seal on the second portion 1012 to fictionally secure the head 822 in a position relative to the handle 820 and / or otherwise prevent the showerhead 802 from leaking at the connection between the head 822 and the first arm 828A.

[0072] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the showerhead 802. As shown, the pivot pin 1002 may be inserted within the second aperture 1004B, and the first port 1000A may be aligned with the first aperture 1004A. The second portion 1012 may be positioned with the first aperture 1004 A, and the first portion 1010 may be positioned with the first set of tines 1020 extending through the first port 1000 A to engage the second set of tines 1022 of the second portion 1012. The fastener 1024 may lock the first portion 1010 to the second portion 1012. The first sealing member 1030 may engage an interior surface of the second aperture 1004B to seal a fluid passageway 1100 through the second arm 828B. The second sealing member 1032 may engage an interior surface of the first aperture 1004A to provide friction to the head 822, such as to ensure the head 822 stays in a set orientation during use.

[0073] FIGS. 12A-12B are exploded views of the head 822. The head 822 may include a mode plate 1210, a mode seal 1212, and a shower engine 1218, or any combination thereof. The mode plate 1210 may be positioned within the housing 832 and include a front side 1224 and a rear side 1226. Referring to FIG. 12A, the front side 1224 may define multiple fluid chambers, such as a first chamber 1230A, a second chamber 1230B, and a third chamber 1230C, or any combination thereof. The first chamber 1230A may be fluidly coupled to the first set of nozzles 836A, the second chamber 1230B may be fluidly coupled to the second set of nozzles 836B, and the third chamber 1230C may be fluidly coupled to the third set of nozzles 836C, and so on.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 12B, the rear side 1226 may include a first aperture 1234A, a second aperture 1234B, and a third aperture 1234C, among other configurations. The first aperture 1234A may be fluidly coupled to the first chamber 1230A to deliver fluid to the first chamber 1230A. Similarly, the second aperture 1234B may be fluidly coupled to the second chamber 1230B to deliver fluid to the second chamber 1230B, and the third aperture 1234C may be fluidly coupled to the third chamber 1230C to deliver fluid to the third chamber 1230C. The mode plate 1210 may be coupled to the spray face 834, such as via one or more complementary tabs 1240 of the mode plate 1210 and the spray face 834.

[0075] Referring to FIG. 12A, the mode seal 1212 may be seated within the housing 832 to seal against the mode plate 1210. The mode seal 1212 may include a bore 1246 that selectively aligns with the apertures of the mode plate 1210 to direct fluid to an associated chamber, such as in a manner as described above. The shower engine 1218 may be similar to the shower engine 618 described above. As one example, the shower engine 1218 may be similar to the massage engine described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2021 / 0129162 Al, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0076] The head 822 may include a detent structure to releasably hold the spray face 834 in one of a plurality of positions (e.g., associated with each mode of the head 822). For example, a pin 1250 may be selectively positioned within a divot or recess 1252 defined in the mode plate 1210 to hold the spray face 834 in position. The pin 1250 may be biased into engagement with the divot 1252 by a spring 1254. The pin 1250 may be rounded such that rotation of the spray face 834 releases or otherwise removes the pin 1250 from the divot 1252 against the bias of the spring 1254.

[0077] FIG. 13 is a side view of a showerhead 1302. Except as otherwise noted below, the showerhead 1302 may be similar to the showerhead 102 and / or 802, discussed above. For example, the showerhead 1302 may be coupled to the mounting bracket 104 or the supplemental mounting bracket 114, such as in a similar manner as described above. In addition, the showerhead 1302 may be a handheld showerhead including a handle 1320 and a head 1322 extending from the handle 1320. The handle 1320 may define an elongated body including a hose coupling portion 1344 at its bottom end. The elongated body of the handle 1320 may have a length defining a longitudinal axis AXISHANDLE and the hose coupling portion 1344 may have a length defining a coupling axis AXISCOUPLING. Rather than being coaxial with the longitudinal axis, the coupling axisAxiscouPLiNG may be angled relative to the longitudinal axis AxisnANDLE (e.g., the coupling axis AxiscouPLiNG offset from the longitudinal axis AXISHANDLE by an angle B to angle the hose coupling portion 1344 relative to the handle body), such as to position the handle 1320 or head 1322 away from the wall. For example, the angle B may be between about 10° to about 15° (e.g., about 12°). Such configurations are illustrative only by way of example, and the coupling axis AxiscouPLiNG may be angled relative to the longitudinal axis AXISHANDLE in other configurations to position the showerhead 1302 as desired. In examples, the third longitudinal axis Axiss of the bracket 160 may extend coaxial or parallel to the coupling axis AxiscouPLiNG of the showerhead 1302. In such examples, the angle A of the bracket 160 may be selected to orient the coupling axis AxiscouPLiNG vertically, with the longitudinal axis extending at an angle to the third longitudinal axis Axiss.

[0078] All relative and directional references (including top, bottom, side, front, rear, and so forth) are given by way of example to aid the reader’s understanding of the examples described herein. They should not be read to be requirements or limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use unless specifically set forth in the claims. Connection references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, joined, and the like) are to be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between a connection of elements and relative movement between elements. As such, connection references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and in fixed relation to each other, unless specifically set forth in the claims.

[0079] The present disclosure teaches by way of example and not by limitation. Therefore, the matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings should be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. The following claims are intended to cover all generic and specific features described herein, as well as all statements of the scope of the present method and system, which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall there between.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A handheld showerhead comprising: a handle; and a head rotatably coupled to the handle at a single connection.

2. The handheld showerhead of claim 1, further comprising a pivot pin defined on an arm of the handle, wherein the head is coupled to rotate 360-degrees about the pivot pin.

3. The handheld showerhead of claim 2, further comprising: a chamber defined in the head and comprising a shower engine; and a fluid path defined through the handle and pivot pin and into the chamber.

4. The handheld showerhead of claim 2 or 3, further comprising: a groove defined in the pivot pin; and a clip positioned at least partially in the groove to retain the head on the pivot pin.

5. The handheld showerhead of any of claims 2-4, further comprising: a first sealing member on the pivot pin to seal a fluid passageway between the pivot pin and the head; and a second sealing member on the pivot pin to frictionally secure the head in a position relative to the handle.

6. The handheld showerhead of any of claims 2-5, wherein: the handle defines a first longitudinal axis; and the pivot pin defines a second longitudinal axis perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis.

7. The handheld showerhead of any of claims 1-6, wherein a fluid path is defined through the single connection between the handle and the head.

8. A showering system comprising the handheld showerhead of any of claims 1-7, the showering system further comprising a mounting bracket configured to position the handheld showerhead in a vertical orientation.

9. A mounting bracket for a handheld showerhead, the mounting bracket configured to be fluidly coupled to a water source and comprising: a first portion defining a first longitudinal axis; a second portion defining a second longitudinal axis offset from the first longitudinal axis by an angle; and a bracket coupled to the second portion and configured to receive the handheld showerhead, wherein the angle orients the bracket to position at least a hose coupling portion of the handheld showerhead in a vertical orientation when coupled to the bracket.

10. The mounting bracket of claim 9, wherein the bracket defines a third longitudinal axis parallel to the second longitudinal axis.

11. The mounting bracket of claim 9 or 10, further comprising: a first coupling feature for engaging the first portion with the water source; and a second coupling feature for engaging the second portion with a hose.

12. The mounting bracket of claim 11, wherein the first coupling feature comprises: a first connector for coupling to the water source; and a second connector for coupling to the first portion.

13. A showering system comprising: a handheld showerhead comprising a handle and a head rotatably coupled to the handle; and a mounting bracket configured to be fluidly coupled to a water source, the mounting bracket comprising a bracket and a bend to allow a vertical mounting of the handheld showerhead to the bracket.

14. The showering system of claim 13, further comprising a hose fluidly connecting the handheld showerhead to the mounting bracket, wherein the bracket positions at least a portion of the hose in a vertical orientation.

15. The showering system of claim 14, wherein the mounting bracket comprises: a first portion defining a first longitudinal axis; and a second portion defining a second longitudinal axis offset from the first longitudinal axis by an angle to define the bend, the bracket positioned between the bend and a connection to the hose.

16. The showering system of any of claims 13-15, wherein the bracket is configured to receive the handheld showerhead to dock the handle in a vertical orientation.

17. The showering system of any of claims 13-16, further comprising a two-part connection for coupling the mounting bracket to the water source, the two-part connection comprising: a first connector for coupling to the water source; and a second connector for coupling to the mounting bracket.

18. The showering system of any of claims 13-17, wherein the handle comprises a single arm, and wherein the head is rotatably coupled to the single arm.

19. The showering system of claim 18, further comprising a pivot pin defined on the single arm, wherein the head is coupled to rotate 360-degrees about the pivot pin.

20. The showering system of claim 18 or 19, wherein the head rotates about an axis perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the handle.

21. A handheld showerhead comprising: a handle defining at least one arm; a head rotatably coupled to the at least one arm; anda fluid passageway defined in a single arm of the at least one arm.

22. The handheld showerhead of claim 21, further comprising a pivot pin defining a rotation axis of the head relative to the handle.

23. The handheld showerhead of claim 22, further comprising: a chamber defined in the head; and the fluid passageway defined through the handle and pivot pin and into the chamber.

24. The handheld showerhead of claim 22 or 23, further comprising: a first sealing member on the pivot pin to seal the fluid passageway; and a second sealing member to frictionally secure the head in a position relative to the handle.

25. The handheld showerhead of any of claims 21-24, wherein the at least one arm comprises a first arm and a second arm.

26. The handheld showerhead of claim 25, further comprising a multipart attachment assembly securing the head to the handle.

27. The handheld showerhead of claim 26, wherein the multipart attachment assembly comprises: a first portion associated with the head; and a second portion associated with the handle, the first portion and the second portion engaged to tie rotation of the second portion with rotation of the first portion.

28. The handheld showerhead of any of claims 25-27, wherein: the head is secured in place via the first arm; and the fluid passageway is defined through the second arm.

29. A showering system comprising the handheld showerhead of any of claims 21 -28, the showering system further comprising a mounting bracket configured to position at least a hose coupling portion of the handheld showerhead in a vertical orientation.

30. The showering system of claim 29, wherein the mounting bracket comprises a bracket and a bend to allow a vertical mounting of the handheld showerhead to the bracket.

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