Automatic mixing device for use in a shower head

US4467964A · kind A · utility

Inventor

• Charles Kaeser · Pully, CH

Key dates

• Filing date: Oct 19, 1981
• Grant date: Aug 28, 1984
• Expiry date: Oct 19, 2001

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10T137/8597
• WIPO field: Chemical engineering
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

A mixing device is disclosed for the purpose of mixing a first fluid with a second fluid contained in a pressurized stream. The device includes a first fluid chamber for holding the first fluid, which includes a closure surface, an inlet, and an outlet, a second fluid inlet, a second fluid outlet, a second fluid circuit for directing the second fluid stream from the second fluid inlet to the second fluid outlet, a membrane slidably contained within the first fluid chamber and having one surface facing the closure surface, and an orifice between the membrane surfaces so that the first fluid can flow through that orifice, a spring in contact with the inner surface of the membrane to normally urge its surface against the closure surface in order to prevent the flow of the first fluid through the orifice, a second fluid valve for selectively directing at least a portion of the second fluid stream through the inlet of the first fluid chamber against the outer surface of the membrane so as to urge it against the spring and thereby separate the surface of the membrane from the closure surface and permit the first fluid to flow through the orifice and mix with the second fluid to create a …