GB2575838A

GB2575838A - Water outlet for an ablutionary device

Info

Publication number: GB2575838A
Application number: GB1812118.6A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Timothy Lloyd Jones David
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2018-07-25
Filing date: 2018-07-25
Publication date: 2020-01-29
Anticipated expiration: 2038-07-25
Also published as: GB201812118D0; GB2575838B

Abstract

Ablutionary device 1, such as a shower head, with body 2, perforated plate 3, retaining means 4, and interior passage 5. Body 2 and retaining means 4 are separated by seal 8. Plate 3 is located within an aperture 7 of retaining means 4, and water flows out of passage 5 through plate 3 via aperture 7. Plate 3 is rotatable, via an intermediate position, between one position in which its first face is outward-facing, and a second position in which its second face is outward-facing, and can be locked in any of these positions by retaining means 4. This permits cleaning and ventilation of passage 5, which reduces the build-up of harmful microorganisms. Plate 3 has a rotation axis perpendicular to, and extending from the centre of, its two faces. Retaining means 4 and the faces of plate 3 each have at least one marking that can be aligned to indicate their relative rotations. Also disclosed are methods for cleaning an ablutionary device.

Description

Water Outlet for an Ablutionary Device

The present invention relates to water outlets for ablutionary devices, such as shower heads and spray taps.

Shower heads are well known devices to provide water from an outlet in a spray, for the purposes of ablution. The spray is often achieved by a perforated plate fixed across the water outlet. Conventional outlets of such a nature usually remain internally moist when not in use and bacteria can multiply therein, causing problems. In particular, partial drainage of the spray plate area allows for increased levels of oxygen and residual water lining internal surfaces of the shower head which presents ideal conditions for proliferation of pathogens, for example legionella. If the shower is situated in a room with a warm room temperature, then the growth of bacteria is further encouraged. Furthermore, stagnant water left in branch pipes and dead legs of the plumbing system that supplies water to the shower head can also support bacteria, either waterborne, or in the biofilms lining the pipes and fittings. The bacteria can then be carried into the atmosphere in the spray provided by the perforated spray plate of the shower head. The pathogens can then be easily inhaled by a user of the shower and may cause disease, for example Legionnaires’ disease. Such problems are particularly prolific in hospitals, care homes, hotels, university residence, caravans, holiday homes, etc. where a shower may not be regularly used, the room temperature may be warm, or the users may be more susceptible to bacterial diseases.

It is known in the art that, in accordance with procedures described by health and safety authorities, showers that are not regularly in use should at least be regularly flushed to control accumulation of bacteria in the components of the shower. Such flushing may be carried out for several minutes every week. Current methods of flushing are often found ineffective because contamination gets trapped by the perforated plate of the shower head and may continue to proliferate there. An apparatus for flushing an ablutionary device is shown in UK patent GB2267664. The apparatus includes a diverter means or valve means to permit static water within the shower head or in a supply pipe or hose connected thereto to be flushed to waste, or to drain via a conduit, before the water is dispensed from the shower head. This reduces the risk of bacterial multiplication in shower heads and the associated drains or pipes.

Another method for preventing bacterial build-up in a shower is to expose the spray plate to air. When the spray plate is exposed to air, it will not gather stagnant water, therefore the environment that bacteria thrive in is removed and bacteria are less likely to develop on the spray plate. Furthermore, the interior of the shower head body will also not gather stagnant water. As well as preventing build-up of stagnant water, exposing the spray plate and interior of the shower head body allows for desiccation therefore these components will be less prone to hosting bacteria. An apparatus to vent a spray plate and shower head to the air, and therefore reduce bacteria build-up, is described in UK patent GB2330319. The apparatus comprises a spray plate that can be opened away from the body of the shower head to allow venting. The spray plate is mounted to a member that actuates the opening and closing of the spray plate according to the fluid flow of the water supply.

A further method of preventing bacteria build-up is to simply remove and clean the perforated plate. However, such methods often require the shower head to be disassembled; therefore can be onerous and costly. This may result in the shower head being cleaned less frequently than is necessary to be effective in pathogen prevention.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus and method for easy and effective removal of accumulated bacteria, in particular pathogens such as legionella, in an ablutionary device, and prevention of use of a contaminated ablutionary device. A further object of the present invention is to provide a way of indicating when an ablutionary device was last attended to in order to ensure that effective microbial control practice is not being overlooked.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an ablutionary device comprising: a perforated plate having a first face and a second face; and a retaining means, wherein the perforated plate is rotatable via an intermediate position between a first position in which the first face is outwardly facing and a second position in which the second face is outwardly facing, and wherein the perforated plate is rotatable about a first axis substantially perpendicular to the first or second face and extending from the center of the first or second face, and wherein the perforated plate may be locked in the first, second, and/or intermediate position by the retaining means.

By having the perforated plate able to be locked in the first, second, and intermediate positions, when the device is not in use, the perforate plate can be held in the intermediate position. In the intermediate position, the perforated plate may be substantially perpendicular to when it is in the first or second positions and consequently allows moisture to escape from the inside of the device readily. The arrangement of the perforated plate and the retaining means allows the perforated plate to be flipped or turned over such that a different face may be outwardly facing, and also the plate may be able to be rotated clockwise or anticlockwise.

In an ablutionary device according to the present invention, at least one of the perforated plate faces and the retaining means comprises at least one marking indicating the relative rotation of the perforated plate face and the retaining means. Since the plate is able to be flipped over and also rotated clockwise/anticlockwise, it is possible for the device to retain information as to when the device was last attended to. This is not a possibility with devices of the prior art which do not provide for the perforated plate to be rotated in two planes/around two axes.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided an ablutionary device. The ablutionary device comprises a perforated plate. The ablutionary device further comprises a retaining means. The retaining means comprises an aperture. The aperture is defined by an aperture wall. The perforated plate comprises a peripheral surface. The perforated plate is located substantially within the aperture. The peripheral surface substantially corresponds with the aperture wall. The perforated plate has a closed position and an open position. The perforated plate is rotatable between the closed position and the open position about a first axis. The first axis passes through the centre of the perforated plate and is substantially parallel to the plane of the aperture.

The configuration of the retaining means and the perforated plate allows for easy cleaning of the entire surface of the perforated plate and of the interior surfaces of the ablutionary device behind the perforated plate without requiring disassembly of the ablutionary device. The ablutionary device does not require an axle to facilitate rotation of the perforated plate, therefore allows for improved access to the entire surface of the perforated plate for cleaning. As such, the ablutionary device preferably does not comprise an axle. The open position of the perforated plate allows any water retained in the device to evaporate and allows the inside of the device to dry out. This hinders the growth of bacteria and provides an effective way of reducing the risk of bacterial contamination. Furthermore, the open position of the perforated plate will deter potential users from using the shower when the shower or the shower water system could potentially be contaminated, as they will see that the shower head is not in a configuration appropriate to perform its function. The absence of an axel also allows the plate to be rotated in a clockwise or anti-clockwise manner in addition to being able to be flipped over. As such, the device is configured to allow the spray plate to be rotated and flipped over. The device may therefore also be configured to indicate the relative rotation of the spray plate and/or the retaining means relative to one another and/or another feature of the device.

As such, in another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an ablutionary device comprising a spray plate and a retaining means, wherein the spray plate and/or retaining means are configured to indicate the relative rotation of the spray plate and/or the retaining means relative to one another and/or another feature of the device. Preferably, the spray plate and/or the retaining means are configured to allow users to record when the device was last attended to by adjusting the relative positions of the spray plate, retaining means, and/or any other features of the device. In this way, the spray plate and/or the retaining means can be moved when the device is cleaned and the relative position of the spray plate and/or the retaining means to each other or another feature of the device can be used to record when the device was attended to. As such, the device can effectively function as a data store or record as it has a mechanical “memory” provided at least partially by the spray plate and/or the retaining means and/or another feature of the device. The device according to the present aspect of the invention may comprise the features of any other aspect of the present invention described herein and all such combinations are specifically disclosed and considered.

In an embodiment according to any aspect of the present invention, the ablutionary device may further comprise a body. The body may define an interior passage. In a preferred embodiment the ablutionary device may further comprise a mounting means and a flushing port. The mounting means may comprise a discharge port. The mounting means may have a first position wherein the discharge port is in fluid communication with the flushing port. The mounting means may have a second position wherein the discharge port is in fluid communication with the interior passage.

In a further preferred embodiment the retaining means may be located at an end of the body.

In a further preferred embodiment the ablutionary device may further comprise a chamber. When the perforated plate is in the open position a portion of the perforated plate may be within the chamber.

In a further preferred embodiment the chamber may be defined by a chamber wall. The shape of the peripheral surface of the perforated plate may substantially correspond to the shape of the chamber wall. When the perforated plate is in the open position, a portion of the peripheral surface may be in contact with the chamber wall. Having the peripheral shape of the perforated plate substantially correspond to the shape of the chamber wall, it is possible for the perforated plate to rotate freely without being obstructed by the chamber wall.

In a further preferred embodiment a seal may be provided between the retaining means and the body. The seal may be an o-ring.

In a further preferred embodiment the chamber may be defined by the interior passage.

In a further preferred embodiment the chamber may be located adjacent the retaining means.

In a further preferred embodiment the chamber wall may be semi-spherical or partially spherical. The perforated plate may be substantially a disc. The perforated plate may be referred to as a spray plate and vice versa. The radius of the chamber wall may be approximately the same as the radius of the perforated plate. The aperture may be substantially circular. The aperture wall may be arcuate. The aperture wall may be substantially the same as the radius of the aperture. The peripheral surface may be arcuate. The radius of the arc of the peripheral surface may be approximately the same as the radius of the perforated plate. The aperture being substantially circular and the perforated plate being a disc allows the retaining means to be rotatable about an axis which is perpendicular to the surface of the perforated plate and intersects the centre of the perforated plate, as may be required for certain embodiments.

In a further preferred embodiment wherein when the perforated plate is in the closed position, the perforated plate may be in sealing contact with the retaining means. The sealing contact is sufficient to form a substantially water tight seal.

When the perforated plate is in the closed position a radial plane of the aperture may be substantially aligned with a radial plane of the perforated plate. When the perforated plate is in the closed position substantially the entire length of the peripheral surface may be in contact with the aperture wall. When the perforated plate is in the closed position substantially the entire aperture wall may be in contact with the peripheral surface and/or a seal, which may be an o-ring seal.

In a further preferred embodiment when the perforated plate is in the open position a portion of the peripheral surface may be in contact with a portion of the aperture wall. When the perforated plate is in the open position two diametrically opposing points of the peripheral surface may be respectively in contact with two diametrically opposing points of the aperture wall. All of the contact points may be on the first axis.

In certain embodiments of an ablutionary device, when water pressure is applied to the perforated plate via the interior passage, the perforated plate will move from the open position to the closed position and form a sealing contact with the retaining means. Additionally the perforated plate may be moved between positions manually. The perforated plate may be biased into the open position, the closed position, or an intermediate position as desired.

In a further preferred embodiment a seal may be provided on the peripheral surface. The seal may be an o-ring. The seal may be captured by the retaining means. The seal may be captured between the retaining means and the body. Such a seal may facilitate ease of movement of the spray plate in such applications of the ablutionary device where there is a risk of lime scale. The seal may be positioned in the body and/or the retaining means such that when the perforated plate is in the closed position, a water tight seal is provided.

In a further preferred embodiment the retaining means may have a locked position that locks the perforated plate in the closed position and in the open position. The retaining means may have an unlocked position to allow the perforated plate to rotate between positions. By locking the perforated plate in the open position, there is reduced risk of the perforated plate being inadvertently closed. When the perforated plate is locked in the open position, it is not fit for purpose as an ablutionary device; therefore it is clear to a potential user that bacteria eradication measures must be carried out before the ablutionary device may be used.

In a further preferred embodiment, when the retaining means is in the locked position, at least a portion of the aperture may be in contact with at least a portion of the perforated plate. When the retaining means is in the locked position and the perforated plate is in the open position, a portion of the aperture wall may be in contact with a portion of the peripheral surface. When the retaining means is in the locked position and the perforated plate is in the open position two diametrically opposing points of the aperture wall may be in contact with a portion of the peripheral surface and/or seal. The perforated plate may define a chord. When the retaining means is in the locked position and the perforated plate is in the open position the points at which the chord intersects the peripheral surface may be in contact with a portion of the aperture wall. In this way, the perforated plate is able to be retained in the device without the need for an axle. The diametrically opposed points of the perforated plate which engage with the device allow the perforated plate to rotate substantially around an axis extending between the two diametrically opposed points of contact, but without there being an axle and retaining means, such as cylindrical holes, for the axle. An axle and receiving means for the axle could harbour bacteria and retain water, and are therefore a potential source of contamination due to bacterial growth. It is also very difficult if not impossible to clean the axle and receiving means effectively. In the present invention, there is no axle and receiving means between the perforated plate and retaining means, and therefore there is nowhere for bacteria and/or water to be retained. Any bacteria which remain on a surface of the device are accessible for cleaning, so that bacteria may be cleaned from the device.

In a further preferred embodiment when the perforated plate is in the closed position the radial plane of the aperture may be substantially parallel to the radial plane of the perforated plate. When the perforated plate is in the closed position, the perforated plate and the aperture may be axially and/or radially offset.

In a further preferred embodiment when the retaining means is in the locked position and the perforated plate is in the closed position the perforated plate may be in sealing contact with the retaining means. When the retaining means is in the locked position and the perforated plate is in the closed position, substantially the entire circumferential length of the peripheral surface may be in contact with the aperture wall and/or the seal. When the retaining means is in the locked position and the perforated plate is in the open position, a first axial portion of the peripheral surface may be in contact with the aperture wall and a second axial portion of the peripheral surface may be in contact with the chamber wall. In this way, the perforated plate will be locked between the retaining means and the chamber wall. When the locking means is in the locked position, the perforated plate is urged towards the chamber wall. In the locked position, the outer periphery of the perforated plate engages with at least a portion of the chamber wall such that relative rotation between the perforated plate and the chamber wall is substantially prevented. Thus, the perforated plate is retained in the desired open position.

In a further preferred embodiment when the retaining means is in the unlocked position, the retaining means may be spaced apart from the perforated plate. When the locking means is unlocked, the perforated plate is able to move away from the chamber wall and is free to rotate.

In a further preferred embodiment the retaining means may be moveable relative to the body. The retaining means may be moved between the locked position and unlocked position, and vice-versa, by moving the retaining means relative to the body. The retaining means may be moved between the locked position and the unlocked position manually. The retaining means may be connected to the body via a thread. Movement between the retaining means and the body may be facilitated by the thread. The retaining means may be rotatable relative to the body. The retaining means may be connected to the body via a screw or peg positioned through the wall of the retaining means or other suitable portion of the device. The screw or peg may protrude into a groove in the chamber body so that ease of movement can be achieved by providing the correct amount of travel between the retaining means and chamber wall with a twist or turn.

In a further preferred embodiment the retaining means may have a locked configuration that locks the perforated plate in the closed position and the open position. The retaining means may have an unlocked configuration that allows the perforated plate to rotate between positions.

In a further preferred embodiment a face of the perforated plate may be a rounded rectangle shape. The perforated plate may comprise two or more straight edges connected via curved portions. This is to avoid having a plate with sharp corners. This reduces the chance of injury and it is also easier to provide a seal at a curved portion when compared to a sharp corner, such as, for example, a 90° corner.

In a further preferred embodiment the retaining means may comprise two segments. The aperture may extend through both segments. The first axis may extend through both segments. When the retaining means is in the locked configuration the segments may be connected. When the retaining means is in the unlocked configuration the segments may be spaced apart.

In a further preferred embodiment the chamber may be defined by the retaining means. The chamber may be located adjacent the aperture.

In a further preferred embodiment when the retaining means is in the locked configuration, at least a portion of the retaining means may be in contact with at least a portion of the perforated plate. When the retaining means is in the locked configuration at least a portion of the aperture wall may be in contact with at least a portion of the peripheral surface.

In a further preferred embodiment when the retaining means is in the locked configuration and the perforated plate is in the open position two opposing points of the aperture wall may be in contact with two opposing points of the peripheral surface.

By locking the perforated plate in the open position, there is reduced risk of the perforated plate being inadvertently closed. When the perforated plate is locked in the open position, it is not fit for purpose as an ablutionary device; therefore it is clear to a potential user that bacteria eradication measures must be carried out before the ablutionary device may be used.

In a further preferred embodiment when the retaining means is in the locked configuration and the perforated plate is in the closed position the perforated plate may be in sealing contact with the retaining means.

In a further preferred embodiment, when the perforated plate is in the open position, the face of the perforated plate may be exposed to the atmosphere. The perforated plate may be rotated 90 degrees between the closed position and the open position. The perforated plate may be biased towards the open position, the closed position, or an intermediate position. Preferably, the perforated plate is biased towards the open position such that when the device is not in use, air is able to enter the ablutionary device and water vapour is able to readily leave the device such that water is not retained within the device.

Ease of cleaning the perforated plate and the interior surface of the ablutionary device is maximised when the perforated plate is rotated by 90 degrees between the closed position and the open position. In addition, the internal portion of the device is open to the air and any remaining water is able to readily evaporate and dry out the inside of the device making it more difficult or even impossible for bacteria to proliferate.

In a further preferred embodiment the ablutionary device is a shower, shower head, or water tap.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, at least one face of the perforated plate may comprise one or a plurality of markings. The markings may be in any suitable form. For example, the face of the perforated plate may be divided into any number of equal segments. The markings may be numbered. There may be a marking means, such as an arrow or a line, located on the retaining means or any other suitable location of the device. The purpose of the markings on the perforated plate and the retaining means is to provide an indication as to when the shower was last in use or was last flushed, cleaned or attended to. It will be appreciated that the plurality of markings could be located on the retaining means (or other suitable location) and the marking means, such as an arrow or line, may be located on the perforated plate. After the device has been cleaned or last flushed, the perforated plate may be rotated such that one of the plurality of markings on the perforated plate lines up with the marking on the retaining means. For example, the plurality of markings on the perforated plate may represent weeks of the year, such that 1 represents the first week in a year and 52 represents the last week of a year. Since it is possible for the perforated plate to be rotated due to its unique construction, this allows it to also be used to indicate when the device was last cleaned, flushed or otherwise attended to. Furthermore, since it is possible for the perforated plate to be “flipped over”, thus exposing the opposing face of the perforated plate, further markings could be located on the opposing face. Since it is possible to provide markings on both sides of the perforated plate, it is possible to make the spacing between the markings greater to make it easier to determine which of the plurality of markings on the perforated plate is aligned with the marking on the retaining means, or it is possible to provide a greater number of markings in order to more specifically indicate when the device was last attended to. The perforated plate may be rotated by any suitable means, but in one example may be rotated using a key. The at least one marking on the plate may be alignable with the at least one marking on the retaining means. The key may engage with at least one of the perforations in the perforated plate, or may engage with a feature on the perforated plate that allows for rotation. The engagement of the key with the perforation may serve to at least partially clean the perforation. Thus, the key may engage with substantially all of the perforations in order to clean the apertures every time the perforated plate is turned to set the time or date it was last flushed, cleaned, or otherwise attended to. It will be appreciated that in known designs where it is not possible to rotate the perforated plate due to it having an axle, it would be possible to provide a means, such as a ring, which surrounds the outer periphery of the perforated plate and can be rotated to be aligned with markings on the perforated plate. However, this would increase the complexity of the device unlike the present invention where there is no increase in complexity to provide such an indication means. This embodiment may be combined with any aspect of the present invention. In an embodiment, the marking means may be arranged such that they are not obvious to an uninformed user. This is because in certain circumstances, it may be desirable for the owner of the device to know when it was last attended to, but it may be undesirable for the user, such as a guest in a hotel, to be able to readily determine when the device was last attended to. Therefore, the perforated plate and/or the retaining means may be arranged so that an indication device, for example a key or lever used to rotated the perforated plate, may only engage with the perforated plate in one orientation. This may be achieved by any suitable means, for example at least one of the perforations may be shaped such that a corresponding portion of the indication device may only engage with the perforation in one way. Alternatively or additionally, where the indication means engages with substantially all of the perforations, one or more of the perforations may be differently sized and/or shaped to engage with correspondingly shaped or sized protrusions on the indication device (key). It will be appreciated that the engagement means on the perforated plate, in some cases, may not be a perforation and may be an indentation which does not pass through the plate. In this way, it is difficult to determine when the device was last attended to through visual inspection alone, but it may be clear to the person attending to the device due to the key engaging with the perforated plate in one orientation only, and thereby providing the indication of when the device was last attended to. In this way, the device has a “memory” which can be updated to store information on when the device was last attended to.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided an ablutionary device. The ablutionary device comprises a mounting means. The ablutionary device further comprises a body. The body comprises a flushing port. The body further comprises an interior passage. The mounting means comprises a discharge port. The mounting means has a first position wherein the discharge port is in fluid communication with the flushing port. The mounting means has a second position wherein the discharge port is in fluid communication with the interior passage.

The first position and the second position of the mounting means allow for effective flushing of the ablutionary device to significantly reduce or eradicate any bacteria that may be present in the ablutionary device. The apparatus allows for flushing of the ablutionary device whilst bypassing the perforated plate that may capture unwanted bacteria. The apparatus further allows for flushing to occur without creating a spray of fluid through the perforated plate that may result in an increased amount of bacteria being inhaled by a user, which may be the person carrying out the flushing.

In a preferred embodiment the ablutionary device may further comprise a perforated plate. The ablutionary device may further comprise a retaining means. The retaining means may comprise an aperture defined by an aperture wall. The perforated plate may comprise a peripheral surface. The perforated plate may be located substantially within the aperture. The peripheral surface may substantially correspond with the aperture wall. The perforated plate may have a closed position and an open position. The perforated plate may be rotatable between the closed position and the open position about a first axis. The first axis may pass through the centre of the perforated plate and may be parallel to the plane of the aperture.

In a further preferred embodiment when the perforated plate is in the closed position the perforated plate may be in sealing contact with the retaining means.

In a further preferred embodiment the retaining means may have a locked position that locks the perforated plate in the closed position and in the open position. The retaining means may have an unlocked position that allows the perforated plate to rotate between positions.

In a further preferred embodiment the retaining means may have a locked configuration that locks the perforated plate in the closed position and in the open position. The retaining means may have an unlocked configuration that allows the perforated plate to rotate between positions.

In a further preferred embodiment the mounting means may be substantially cylindrical.

In a further preferred embodiment the mounting means may have a third position wherein fluid flow from the discharge port is prevented.

In a further preferred embodiment the ablutionary device may further comprise a chamber. The interior passage may be in fluid communication with the chamber. The chamber may be in fluid communication with the perforated plate.

In a further preferred embodiment the body and the mounting means may be moveable relative to one another. The discharge port may move between positions by relative motion between the body and the mounting means. As the discharge port moves between positions the mounting means may remain stationary.

In a further preferred embodiment the body and the mounting means may be rotatable relative to each other. The mounting means may move between positions by relative rotation between the mounting means and the body. The mounting means may comprise an axle. The body and the mounting means may be connected by the axle. The body and the mounting means may rotate relative to each other about the axle. The body and the mounting means may be capable of rotating 360 degrees relative to each other. The mounting means may move between the first position and the second position by 180 degrees of rotation relative to the body. The mounting means may move between the first or second position and the third position by 90 degrees of rotation relative to the body. The ablutionary device may further comprise visual marks to indicate when the mounting means is aligned in the first, second and third positions.

In a further preferred embodiment the body and the mounting means may move axially relative to each other. The mounting means may be located substantially within the interior passage. The mounting means may comprise at least one groove. The mounting means may be located in the interior passage by a pin that locates in the at least one groove. When the mounting means is in the first position the pin may locate in a first groove. When the mounting means is in the second position the pin may locate in a second groove. In another embodiment, there is a continuous groove and the pin follows the groove when moving between first and second positions.

In a further preferred embodiment the flushing port may extend between the interior passage and the exterior of the body.

In a further preferred embodiment the interior passage may further define a neck between the flushing port and the chamber. When the mounting means is in the third positon the discharge port may be located in the neck. In this position, the spray chamber is not connected to the flushing port. The perforated plate may be located within the chamber and this is bypassed during flushing. When the mounting means is in the third position the pin may locate in a third groove. Alternatively, when the mounting means is in the third position, which is an intermediate position, the pin may be located at an intermediate portion of the groove, the groove being continuous between the first and second positions via the third position.

In a further preferred embodiment the body and the mounting means may move relative to each other in the rotational and axial directions. The mounting means may comprise a groove. The mounting means may be located within the interior passage by a pin that locates in the groove. As above, the groove may be a partial helix formed around a circumferential portion of the mounting means. When the mounting means is in the first position the pin may be located at a first end of the groove. When the mounting means is in the second position the pin may be located at a second end of the groove. The second end of the groove may be distal from the first end of the groove.

In a further preferred embodiment at least one seal may be provided between the body and the mounting means. The at least one seal may be an o-ring.

In a further preferred embodiment the flushing port may be provided with a drain hose. The drain hose may be detachable. The drain hose may be used when flushing in order to further reduce the production of aerosols. The drain hose may be of any suitable length, but is preferably long enough to transport the water from the flushing port to a drain. The drain hose may comprise one or more baffles to reduce the velocity of the water exiting the hose to further reduce aerosol production.

In a further preferred embodiment the body may be provided with an indicator to indicate to a user which position the mounting means is in.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided an ablutionary device comprising a mounting means, and a body, comprising: a flushing port, and an interior passage; wherein the mounting means comprises a discharge port, wherein the mounting means has a first position wherein the discharge port is in fluid communication with the flushing port, and a second position wherein the discharge port is in fluid communication with the interior passage.

The ablutionary device may further comprise: a perforated plate having a first face and a second face, and a retaining means, wherein the perforated plate is rotatable via an intermediate position between a first position in which the first face is facing outwardly and a second position in which the second face is facing outwardly, and wherein the perforated plate is rotatable about a first axis substantially perpendicular to the first or second face and extending from the center of the first or second face, and wherein the perforated plate may be locked in the first, second, or intermediate position by the retaining means.

The retaining means may comprise an aperture defined by an aperture wall. The perforated plate may comprise a peripheral surface. The perforated plate may be located substantially within the aperture. The peripheral surface may substantially correspond with the aperture wall. The perforated plate may have a closed position and an open position. The perforated plate may be rotatable between the closed position and the open position about a first axis. The first axis may pass through the centre of the perforated plate and be parallel to the plane of the aperture.

In a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided a method for cleaning an ablutionary device. Cleaning may comprise the removal of bacteria or other unwanted pathogens. The method comprises the step of flushing fluid through a discharge port. The discharge port may be in a first position in fluid communication with a flushing port. The method further comprises the step of cleaning a perforated plate, preferably by manual means. The perforated plate may be in an open position. The method may further comprise the step of moving the perforated plate to a closed position. The method may further comprise the step of moving the discharge port to a second position providing fluid to the perforated plate.

This method provides effective steps for preventing bacteria from forming within the ablutionary device whilst it is not in use for extended periods of time, for example during holidays. The perforated plate may remain in the closed position when the shower is in regular use as bacteria will not have the opportunity to grow to undesirable levels. The method further provides effective steps for eradicating any bacteria that may form within the ablutionary device whilst reducing the risk to the health of a person dealing with the ablutionary device.

In a preferred method the discharge port may initially be in a third position wherein fluid flow through the discharge port is prevented. The method may include the step of moving the discharge port from the third position to the first position before the step of flushing fluid through the discharge port.

In a preferred method the perforated plate is rotated through 90 degrees between the open position and the closed position. It will be appreciated that different degrees of rotation between the open and closed positions may be used.

A further preferred method may comprise the steps of moving the retaining means from a locked position to an unlocked position before moving the perforated plate from the open position to the closed position, and returning the retaining means to the locked position after moving the perforated plate to the closed position.

A further preferred method may comprise the steps of moving the retaining means from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration before moving the perforated plate from the open position to the closed position, and returning the retaining means to the locked configuration after moving the perforated plate to the closed position.

The ablutionary device in the fourth aspect of the present invention may be an ablutionary device according to any of the first to third aspects of the present invention or indeed any other aspect of any embodiment described herein. Any features described in respect of one aspect or embodiment of the present invention may be combined with features of any other aspect or embodiment of the present invention, unless it is explicitly stated or implicitly known that these features are so contradictory that they could not be combined.

Specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows a section view of an embodiment of a shower head according to the present invention, wherein the mounting means is in the first position, the perforated plate is in the closed position, and the retaining means is in the locked position.

Figure 2 shows a section view of an embodiment of a shower head according to the present invention, wherein the mounting means is in the second position, the perforated plate is in the open position, and the retaining means is in the locked position.

Figure 3 shows a detailed section view of the perforated plate and retaining means wherein the retaining means is in the unlocked position.

Figure 4 shows a detailed section view of the perforated plate and retaining means wherein the retaining means is in the locked position.

Figure 5 shows an alternative embodiment of a shower head according to the present invention that includes a different spray plate and retaining means configuration wherein the face of the spray plate is a rounded rectangle shape.

Figure 6 shows part of an alternative embodiment of a shower head according to the present invention that includes a different retaining means configuration.

Figure 7 shows an alternative embodiment of a shower head according to the present invention that includes a neck and wherein the mounting means has a third position.

Figure 8 shows an alternative embodiment of a shower head according to the present invention that includes a pin and groove arrangement, wherein the mounting means is in the first position.

Figure 9 shows the embodiment of Figure 8 wherein the mounting means is in the second position.

Figure 10 shows an alternative embodiment of a shower head according to the present invention that includes a configuration of the mounting means and body, wherein the mounting means is in the first position.

Figure 11 shows the embodiment of Figure 8 wherein the mounting means is in the second position;

Figures 12a and b show an embodiment of the invention in which the perforated plate comprises markings which can be used to indicate when the device was last cleaned or otherwise attended to; and

Figures 13a and b show an embodiment in which the perforated plate comprises alternative means for indicating when the device was last attended to.

An ablutionary device according to the present invention may be a shower head. A shower head may be comprised within a shower system. A shower system may further comprise pipework, a water mixer valve, and a water conduit in fluid communication with the shower head. The flow of water through the water conduit may be controlled by the water mixer valve. The external construction of a shower head according to the present invention may appear visually similar to a conventional shower head. The shower head may be mounted on a wall, basin, or other mounting surface. A shower system may further include means for adjusting the angle of the spray, such means may be a ball joint or any other suitable means. The shower head 1, shown in Figures 1 to 4, comprises a body 2 provided with a perforated plate 3 and retaining means 4. The body 2 defines an interior passage 5. The interior passage 5 allows water to flow through the body 2 of the shower head 1.

The retaining means 4 is connected to the body 2 by a thread 6, but may be connected via a peg-in-groove type connection. The retaining means 4 defines an aperture 7. The aperture 7 is generally aligned with the interior passage 5 of the body 2. Water may exit the interior passage 5 of the body 2 via the aperture 7. The aperture 7 is circular in shape. In other embodiments of an ablutionary device according to the present invention, the aperture may alternatively be a square, rectangle or other polygon, an ellipse, or an irregular shape. The perforated plate 3 is located within the aperture 7. The perforated plate 3 is generally disc shaped. In other embodiments of an ablutionary device according to the present invention the perforated plate may be any shape substantially corresponding to the shape of the aperture. A seal 8 is provided between the body 2 and the retaining means 4, adjacent the aperture 7. The seal 8 may be an o-ring or any other appropriate seal. The seal 8 provides sealing between the body 2 and retaining means 4 as water flows through the interior passage 5 and the aperture 7. The seal may also seal against the perforated plate to reduce or eliminate water passing around the periphery of the perforated plate. The seal 8 may engage with at least a portion of the outer periphery of the perforated plate 3.

As can be seen in Figure 2, the perforated plate 3 is perforated with a plurality of circular apertures 9 arranged in concentric rings. In other embodiments of an ablutionary device according to the present invention, the apertures in the perforated plate may be shaped, sized and positioned in any appropriate manner to provide a spray for ablutionary purposes. The perforated plate 3 has a closed position and an open position. Figure 1 shows the perforated plate 3 in the closed position. When the perforated plate 3 is in the closed position, a radial plane 12 of the perforated plate 3 is parallel to a radial plane 16 of the aperture 7. When the perforated plate 3 is in the closed position, water may flow through the plurality of circular apertures 9. Figure 2 shows the perforated plate in the open position. The perforated plate can be rotated about a first axis to the open position. The first axis is any axis passing through the centre 11 of perforated plate 3, and on the radial plane 12 of the perforated plate 3 when the perforated plate 3 is in the closed position. The perforated plate 3 is not attached via a fixed axle to the body 2 of the ablutionary device. The substantial freedom of movement afforded the perforated plate 3 allows for easy cleaning of the entire surface of the perforated plate 3. The interior of the body 2 can also be easily inspected and cleaned when the perforated plate 3 is in the open position. Preferably the perforated plate 3 is rotated about the first axis by 90 degrees to maximise ease of inspection and cleaning. A mounting pipe or spout may screw into the mounting on thread 27.

The interior passage 5 at least partially defines a chamber 13. The chamber 13 is located at the end of the body 2 that is fitted with the retaining means 4. When the perforated plate 3 is in the open position, approximately half of the perforated plate 3 will be within the chamber 13, and approximately half of the perforated plate 3 will be outside of the body 2.

A purpose of the retaining means 4 is to fix the perforated plate 3 in the open and closed positions. The retaining means 4 has a locked (open) position and an unlocked (closed) position. When the retaining means 4 is in the locked position, the perforated plate 3 is prevented from being flipped over, but may still be rotated clockwise or anticlockwise. When the retaining means 4 is in the unlocked position, the perforated plate 3 is free to rotate, i.e. be flipped over. Figure 3 shows the retaining means 4 in the unlocked position. The retaining means 4 is moved between the locked position and the unlocked position by rotation of the retaining means 4 relative to the body 2. Rotation of the retaining means 4 relative to the body 2 is facilitated by a thread 6 or similar means, such as a peg-in-groove type arrangement. The apparatus comprising the retaining means 4 and the perforated plate 3 allows for a practical means of cleaning and inspection without disassembly of the shower head 1.

Figure 4 shows in greater detail how the perforated plate 3 is retained in position by the retaining means 4. The aperture 7 has a radius equal to or smaller than the maximum radius of the perforated plate 3. The chamber 13 is generally dome shaped. The chamber 13 has a radius approximately the same as or slightly smaller than the maximum radius of the perforated plate 3. The chamber is defined by a chamber wall 15. The perforated plate 3 has a peripheral surface 10. The peripheral surface 10 of the perforated plate 3 substantially corresponds to the shape of the chamber wall 15. The peripheral surface 10 is preferably arc shaped. The arc has a radius approximately the same as the maximum radius of the perforated plate 3. In other embodiments of an ablutionary device the arc may have any other suitable radius.

The retaining means 4 comprises an aperture wall 28, which defines the aperture 7. When the perforated plate 3 is in the closed position, substantially the entire circumferential length of the peripheral surface 10 of the perforated plate 3 is in contact with the aperture wall 28. Furthermore, when the perforated plate 3 is in the closed position, the perforated plate 3 and the aperture 7 are axially offset. An axial portion of the peripheral surface 10 of the perforated plate 3 is in contact with the aperture wall 28, and an axial portion of the peripheral surface 10 of the perforated plate 3 is in contact with the chamber wall 15. Thus the perforated plate 3 is retained in the closed position. The retaining means 4 is such that it can maintain the perforated plate 3 in position against the force of water flowing through the interior passage 5. In particular, the retaining means 4 can maintain the perforated plate 3 in the closed position against the force of water flowing through the interior passage 5.

When the perforated plate 3 is in the open position, a portion of the peripheral surface 10 of the perforated plate 3 is in contact with a portion of the aperture wall 28. The portion of the peripheral surface 10 in contact with a portion of the aperture wall 28 is two points at opposing ends of a chord 14 of the perforated plate 3. The portion of the aperture wall 28 in contact with the portion of the peripheral surface 10 is two diametrically opposing points. Thus the perforated plate 3 is retained in the open position. When the perforated plate 3 is left in the open position, ventilation and desiccation of the perforated plate 3 and interior passage 5 occurs. The shower head according to the present invention allows the faces of the perforated plate to be exposed to air in their entirety, therefore ventilation and desiccation are maximised. Furthermore, when the perforated plate 3 is held in the open position it is not fit for purpose as an ablutionary device and cannot inadvertently be closed; therefore it is clear to a potential user that bacteria eradication measures must be carried out before the ablutionary device may be used.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the shower head 1 may further comprise a mounting means 17. The mounting means 17 is mounted to the water conduit of the shower system via a thread 27. In other embodiments of an ablutionary device according to the present invention, the mounting means may be mounted to the water conduit by any other appropriate means, such as, for example, a push fit. The mounting means 17 is preferably located within the interior passage 5 of the body 2. The mounting means 17 is generally cylindrical. The mounting means 17 is located within the body 2 by pin 18, although any other suitable means may be used. Pin 18 locates in a groove having portions 19 and 20. In other embodiments of an ablutionary device according to the present invention the mounting means may be located within the interior passage by any other appropriate means. Other appropriate means may be, for example, corresponding shoulders between the mounting means and a wall of the interior passage.

The mounting means 17 comprises a discharge port 21. Water may flow from the water conduit, through the mounting means, and exit the mounting means via the discharge port. The body 2 further comprises a flushing port 22. The mounting means 17 has a first position wherein the discharge port 21 is in fluid communication with the flushing port 22. Figure 1 shows the mounting means in the first position. When the mounting means 17 is in the first position, the pin 18 is located in the first groove portion 19. A purpose of the flushing port 22 is to flush contaminated water from dead legs in pipes of the shower system, whilst bypassing the perforated plate 3 where bacteria may get trapped. The flushing port 22 is preferably an open conduit to avoid producing a spray. The flushing port 22 may be connected to a drain hose (not shown). The drain hose further prevents the potential for contaminants becoming airborne. There may also be provided a hose (not shown) which is able to transport the water from the device to a drain. The hose may comprise a baffle or other means to reduce aerosol production.

The mounting means 17 has a second position wherein the discharge port 21 is in fluid communication with the chamber 13. Figure 2 shows the mounting means 17 in the second position. When the mounting means 17 is in the second position the pin 18 is located in the second groove portion 20. When the mounting means 17 is in the second position water can flow through the chamber 13 and exit the shower head 1 via the aperture 7 and the perforated plate 3. It will be appreciated that features 19 and 20 may be separate indentations which can receive pin 18. Pin 18 may be sprung such that the user is required to pull or push against the spring bias to remove the pin 18 from the indentations 19 and 20. Once the pin has been moved clear of the indentations 19 and 20, the body of the device may be moved to align the pin 18 with the other of the indentations 19 and 20.

The mounting means 17 and the body 2 may be axially moveable relative to each other. In order to move between the first and second positions the mounting means 17 and the body 2 move relative to each other in the axial direction. As the mounting means 17 moves between the first and second positions, the mounting means 17 remains stationary and the body 2 moves relative to the mounting means 17.

Seals 23 are provided between the mounting means 17 and the interior passage 5 and optionally the entrance to the chamber in the body 2. The seals 23 may be o-ring type seals or any other suitable seals. The seals may be located in any other appropriate locations.

Figure 5 shows an alternative embodiment of an ablutionary device according to the present invention wherein the perforated plate and aperture are an alternative shape. The ablutionary device is a water tap 400 or a shower head. The water tap or shower head 400 includes a body 402 provided with a perforated plate 403 and a retaining means 404. The body 402 defines an interior passage. The interior passage allows water to flow through the body 402 of the water tap 400.

The retaining means 404 comprises two segments 429. A first segment 429a is connected to the body 402. The segment 429 may be connected to the body 402 by any suitable means.

The retaining means 404 defines an aperture 407. The aperture 407 is defined by both segments 429. The second segment 429b defines a substantially greater portion of the aperture 407 than the first segment 429a. In alternative embodiment of an ablutionary device according to the present invention the first segment 429a may define a substantially greater portion of the aperture 407, or the first segment 429a and the second segment 429b may define substantially equal portions of the aperture 407.

The aperture 407 is a rounded rectangle shape. In other embodiments of an ablutionary device according to the present invention the aperture may alternatively be a polygon, an ellipse or an irregular shape. The perforated plate 403 is located within the aperture 407. The aperture 407 may be substantially circular. A face of the perforated plate 410 is a rounded rectangle shape. In other embodiments of an ablutionary device according to the present invention the face of the perforated plate may be any shape substantially corresponding to the shape of the aperture.

The perforated plate 403 has a closed position and an open position. Figure 5 shows the perforated plate 403 in the closed position. When the perforated plate 403 is in the closed position the plane of the face of the perforated plate 403 is substantially parallel with the plane of the aperture 407. The perforated plate 403 can be rotated about a first axis to the open position. The first axis passes through the geometric centre of the perforated plate 403, and passes through the two segments 429 of the retaining means 404, and is on a plane parallel to the face of the perforated plate 403 when the perforated plate 403 is in the closed position.

The retaining means 404 defines a chamber. The chamber is aligned with the aperture 407. The interior passage of the body 402 is in fluid communication with the chamber. When the perforated plate 403 is in the open position, approximately half of the perforated plate 403 is within the chamber.

The retaining means 404 has a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. When the retaining means 404 is in the locked configuration, the perforated plate 403 is retained in either the open position or the closed position. When the retaining means 404 is in the unlocked configuration, the perforated plate 403 is free to rotate about the first axis between the open position and the closed position. When the retaining means is in the locked position the two segments 429 are substantially connected.

The segments 429 may be connected by any suitable means, such as a friction fit. When the retaining means is in the unlocked position the two segments 429 are spaced apart. The segments 429 may be moved from being connected to being spaced apart by manually pulling the segments 429 apart.

The chamber is defined by a chamber wall. The perforated plate 403 comprises a peripheral surface 410. The peripheral surface 410 substantially corresponds to the chamber wall. The aperture 407 is defined by an aperture wall 428. The aperture wall 428 substantially corresponds to the peripheral surface 410.

When the perforated plate 403 is in the closed position and the retaining means 404 is in the locked configuration the peripheral surface 410 and the aperture wall 428 are in sealing contact. Substantially the entire length of the peripheral surface 410 is in contact with the aperture wall 428. When the perforated plate 403 is in the open position and the retaining means 404 is in the locked configuration a portion of the peripheral surface 410 is in contact with a portion of the aperture wall 428. The portion of the peripheral surface 410 in contact with a portion of the aperture wall 428 is two opposing points on the first axis. The portion of the aperture wall 428 in contact with a portion of the peripheral surface 410 is two opposing points on the first axis.

Fig. 6 shows part of an alternative embodiment of an ablutionary device according to the present invention, comprising an alternative retaining means and perforated plate arrangement. The ablutionary device is a shower head. The shower head includes a body 502, a perforated plate 503 and a retaining means 504. The body 502 defines an interior passage 505. The interior passage 505 allows water to flow through the body 502 of the shower head.

The retaining means 504 may be connected to the body 502 via any suitable means. The retaining means 504 defines an aperture 507. The aperture 507 is generally aligned with the interior passage 505. The aperture 507 is circular. The perforated plate 503 is located within the aperture 507. The perforated plate 503 generally has the geometry of a disc. In alternative embodiments the aperture and perforated plate may be any other suitable geometry, provided that the aperture and perforated plate correspond in shape.

The perforated plate 503 has a closed position and an open position. Figure 6 shows the perforated plate 503 in the closed position. When the perforated plate 503 is in the closed position, a radial plane of the perforated plate 503 is parallel to a radial plane of the aperture 507. When the perforated plate 503 is in the closed position, the perforated plate 503 is in sealing contact with the aperture, therefore a water tight seal is created between the perforated plate and the retaining means.

The perforated plate 503 can be rotated about a first axis to the open position. The first axis is any axis passing through the centre 511 of perforated plate 503, and on the radial plane of the perforated plate 503 when the perforated plate 503 is in the closed position. The first axis is also parallel to the radial plane of the aperture 507.

The interior passage 505 comprises a chamber 513. The chamber 513 is adjacent the retaining means 504. When the perforated plate is in the open position, approximately half of the perforated plate 503 will be within the chamber 513. The chamber defines a chamber wall 515. The perforated plate 503 has a peripheral surface 510. The peripheral surface 510 substantially corresponds to the chamber wall 515. The peripheral surface 510 is arc shaped. The arc has a radius approximately the same as the maximum radius of the perforated plate 503. The chamber 513 is substantially dome shaped. When the perforated plate 503 is in the open position the peripheral surface 510 of the portion of the perforated plate 503 inside the chamber 513 is in contact with the chamber wall 515.

The aperture 507 is defined by an aperture wall 528. The aperture wall 528 substantially corresponds to the peripheral surface 510. The aperture wall 528 is arcuate and has a radius substantially the same as the maximum radius of the perforated plate 503. When the perforated plate 503 is in the closed position the aperture wall 528 and the peripheral surface 510 are engaged such that they form a water tight seal. The sealing communication is provided due to the corresponding shape of the aperture wall 528 and the peripheral surface 510. When the perforated plate 503 is in the open position a portion of the aperture wall 528 is in contact with a portion of the peripheral surface 510. The portion of the aperture wall 528 in contact with a portion of the peripheral surface 510 is two diametrically opposing points on the first axis. The portion of the peripheral surface 510 in contact with a portion of the aperture wall 528 is two diametrically opposing points on the first axis.

The perforated plate 503 may be rotated from the closed position to the open position by the manual application of pressure to the face of the perforated plate 503 adjacent the peripheral surface 510. In opening the perforated plate 503, debris located between the perforated plate and the retaining means may be dislodged, therefore may be readily removed. When the ablutionary device is turned on, the water pressure will rotate the perforated plate 503 from the open position to the closed position. The simplicity of such an apparatus allows for access to the entire surface of the perforated plate so that it may readily be cleaned. There may be biasing means which causes the perforated plate to rotate to the closed position when the water is flowing through the device. Any suitable biasing means may be employed. For example, the perforated plate may be weighted or adjusted such that when the retaining means is loose and no water is flowing, the perforated plate is in the open position. The device may comprise means which diverts at least a portion of the water flowing through the device onto the perforated plate and causes the perforated plate to preferentially move into the closed position. The biasing means may be a resilient member.

The peripheral surface 510 may be provided with a seal. The seal may be an o-ring. Such a seal is beneficial in situations wherein hard water flows through the ablutionary device resulting in lime scale. The seal maintains ease of relative movement between the perforated plate 503 and the retaining means 504, and between the perforated plate 503 and the chamber wall 515.

Figure 7 shows another embodiment of an ablutionary device according to the present invention. The ablutionary device comprises the features described in respect of the embodiment of an ablutionary device according to the present invention shown in Figures 1 to 4, with the exception of the modifications described below. The ablutionary device is a shower head 101. The shower head 101 includes body 102, perforated plate 103, retaining means 104, and mounting means 117. The mounting means 117 is mounted to a water conduit of a shower system via a thread 127. The body 102 defines an interior passage 105. The mounting means 117 is located within the interior passage 105 via a pin 118 that locates in groove portions 119, 120 and 124. The mounting means 117 is mounted to a water conduit. The body further comprises a flushing port 122. The interior passage 105 defines a chamber 113. The interior passage 105 further defines a neck 125 between the chamber 113 and the flushing port 122. The mounting means 117 comprises a discharge port 121. Water flows from the water conduit through the mounting means 117 and exits the mounting means 117 via the discharge port 121. The mounting means 117 has a first position wherein the discharge port 121 is in fluid communication with the flushing port 122. The mounting means 117 has a second position wherein the discharge port 121 is in fluid communication with the chamber 113. The mounting means 117 has a third position wherein the discharge port 121 is located in the neck 125. When the mounting means 117 is in the third position, water is prevented from exiting the discharge port 121. The mounting means 117 and the body 102 are axially moveable relative to each other. To move between the first, second and third positions the mounting means 117 and the body 102 move relative to each other in the axial direction. As the mounting means 117 moves between the first, second and third positions, the mounting means 117 remains stationary and the body 102 moves relative to the mounting means 117.

Another embodiment of an ablutionary device according to the present invention is shown in Figures 8 and 9. The ablutionary device comprises the features described in respect of the embodiment of an ablutionary device according to the present invention shown in Figures 1 to 4, with the exception of the modifications described below. The ablutionary device is a shower head 301. The shower head 301 includes body 302, perforated plate 303, retaining means 304, and mounting means 317. The mounting means 317 is mounted to a water conduit of a shower system via a thread 327. The body 302 defines an interior passage 305. The mounting means 317 is located within the interior passage 305 via a pin 318 that locates in a groove 319. The mounting means 317 is substantially cylindrical. The mounting means 317 has a first position and a second position. The groove 319 is defined by the mounting means 317. The groove 319 is a partial helix. The groove 319 extends around a portion of the circumference of the mounting means 317. When the pin 318 is located at a first end of the groove 319 the mounting means 317 is in the first position. Figure 8 shows the mounting means in the first position. When the pin 318 is located at the second end of the groove 319 distal to the first end of the groove 319, the mounting means 317 is in the second position. Figure 9 shows the mounting means in the second position. The mounting means 319 moves between the first position and the second position by movement relative to the body 302. To move the mounting means 317 between the first position and the second position the body 302 may be rotated relative to the mounting means 317, thereby allowing the pin 318 to move in the groove 319, resulting in relative axial dislocation between the mounting means 317 and the body 302.

Figures 10 and 11 show another embodiment of an ablutionary device according to the present invention. The ablutionary device is a shower head 201. The shower head 201 includes means 217.

system via a

The mounting

The body 202 body 202, perforated plate 203, retaining means 204, and mounting The mounting means 217 is mounted to a water conduit of a shower thread 227. The mounting means 217 comprises an axle 226. The mounting means 217 is connected to the body 202 by the axle 226. means 217 and the body 202 are relatively rotatable about the axle 226. means 217 and the body 202 are relatively rotatable by 360 degrees.

comprises an interior passage 205 and a flushing port 222. At least one seal 223 may be provided between the mounting means 217 and the body 202. In the embodiment shown in Figures 10 and 11a seal 223 is located around the axle 226, a seal 223 is located adjacent to the flushing port 222, and a seal 223 is located adjacent to the interior passage 205. The seals 223 may be o-rings, or any other appropriate seal. The mounting means 217 comprises a discharge port 221. The mounting means 217 has a first position wherein the discharge port 221 is in fluid communication with the flushing port 222. Figure 10 shows the mounting means 217 in the first position. The mounting means 217 has a second position wherein the discharge port 221 is in fluid communication with the interior passage 205. Figure 11 shows the mounting means 217 in the second position. The mounting means 217 has a third position wherein fluid flow from the discharge port 221 is prevented. The mounting means 217 moves between the first, second, and third positions by relative rotation of the body 202 about the axle 226. The mounting means 217 will remain stationary as the body 202 rotates relative to the mounting means. The mounting means 217 moves between the first and second positions by, for example, 180 degrees of rotation relative to the body. The mounting means moves from the first or second position to the third position by, for example, 90 degrees of rotation relative to the body. In other embodiments of an ablutionary device according to the present invention, the mounting means may move between positions by any degree of rotation relative to the body. As the mounting means 217 moves between the first, second, and third positions, the mounting means 217 remains stationary and the body 202 rotates relative to the mounting means 217.

The interior passage further defines a chamber 213. When the mounting means 217 is in the second position, the discharge port 221 is in fluid communication with the chamber 213. Other embodiments of an ablutionary device according to the present invention may include visual marks, mechanical means, or any other means to indicate to a user that the mounting means is correctly aligned in the first, second, or third position.

In other embodiments of an ablutionary device according to the present invention, not shown, the mounting means may move between positions by any movement relative to the body, including a combination of axial and/or rotational motion.

According to a method for preventing bacteria in an ablutionary device such as the shower head 1 previously described, when the shower is out of use for an extended period of time it is left with the perforated plate 3 in the open position. When the perforated plate 3 is in the open position, a potential user of the shower will understand that the shower is not in use; therefore they will not attempt to use the shower when it may be at high risk of having been contaminated by bacteria. Similarly, when the perforated plate 3 is in the open position, a person responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of the shower will understand that the shower requires adequate bacteria control precautions to be carried out before the shower can be brought back into use.

The method for controlling or even preventing bacteria in an ablutionary device further comprises flushing water through the flushing port 22. Preferably the water used for flushing will be hot water, but may be blended hot and cold water. The water is flushed through the flushing port 22 for a time suitable to remove bacteria from dead legs in the pipes of the shower system. The flushing will be controlled by the usual flow control means for the shower. The flushing port 22 is preferably an open conduit to reduce or even avoid producing a spray. A person carrying out the flushing is at greater risk of inhaling waterborne bacteria if a spray is produced. Preferably the flushing port 22 may be fitted with a drain hose to further reduce the risk of inhalation of bacteria.

The method for controlling or even preventing bacteria in an ablutionary device further includes inserting a brush into the chamber 13 when the perforated plate 3 is open, and cleaning the perforated plate 3 and the chamber wall 15 by relative motion between the brush and the perforated plate 3 and the chamber wall 15 respectively.

Figure 12a is a schematic depiction of one embodiment of the invention in which the perforated plate 3 comprises a plurality of markings located on at least one face of the perforated plate 3. The markings on the two faces of the perforated plate 3 may be the same or they may be different. One of the plurality of markings may be lined up with a non-movable marking on the retaining means 4 in order to indicate when the device was last cleaned, flushed, or otherwise attended to. The perforated plate 3 is movable such that it can be rotated in order for another of the plurality of markings to be aligned with the non-movable marking on the retaining means 4. In the depicted embodiment, the perforated plate 3 comprises a single headed arrow 30 and a double headed arrow 31, although any suitable markings may be used. The two arrows 30, 31 are located on opposite sides of the face of the perforated plate 3. The retaining ring 4 comprises a plurality of markings, which in this embodiment are shows as circumferentially spaced markings 32. The markings 32 may represent days, weeks, months, or any other suitable time period. The markings 32 may be numbered, coloured, or otherwise marked to indicate a particular time period. For example, the markings 32 may be denoted with numbers which correspond to weeks of the year. In Figure 12a, the single arrow is aligned with one of the markings 32 to indicate that the device was last attended to in week 1 of the year. The arrows 30, 31 and the markings 32 are arranged such that only one arrow is able to align with one of the markings 32 at a time and the other arrow is between two of the markings 32.

Figure 12b shows a device where the perforated plate 3 has been rotated relative to the retaining means such that the double headed arrow 31 is aligned with one of the markings 32 on the retaining means 4. This may indicate that the device was last attended to in the eighth week of the year, i.e. the double headed arrow relates to even numbered weeks of the year, and since it is aligned with the fourth marking, this corresponds to the fourth evenly-numbered week of the year, namely the eighth week. As such, by having two different arrows 30, 31 on the perforated plate, this means that each of the markings on the retaining means may have more than one value. For example, the marking 32 at the 12 o’clock position may refer to the first week of the year when aligned with the single headed arrow and the second week of the year when aligned with the double headed arrow. In the depicted embodiment, there are thirteen markings 32 and so each face of the plate can correspond to 26 weeks of the year. As such, since it is possible to flip the perforated plate over, both sides may be used so that a full 52 weeks can be depicted. It will of course be appreciated that any suitable number of arrows or similar markings could be located on the perforated plate 3 and any suitable number of markings 32 could be located on the retaining ring. For example, there may be just a single arrow on the retaining ring and 6 markings on each face of the perforated plate (or vice versa). One side of the plate may relate to oddly numbered months of the year and the other side may relate to evenly numbered months. As such, the plate will need to be flipped over each month in order to allow the correct month to be indicated. The different sides of the plate of any aspect of the present invention, may be marked to differentiate the two sides from one another. This may be by way of different colours, markings or any other suitable indication. As such, the ablutionary device also is a data storage device.

The rotation may be effected by any suitable means, such as manual means, namely the operated physically rotating the perforated plate, or by the use of a key. The key may be inserted into one or more of the perforations in the perforated plate. The portions of the key which engage with the perforations may at least partially clean the perforations. Even when the perforated plate in locked in order to avoid the marking from being inadvertently moved, with sufficient force, possibly provided by use of the key, it is possible to rotate the perforated plate in a clockwise or anticlockwise direction as required. In addition, the perforated plate 3 may be flipped over such that the other face of the perforated plate 3 is facing outwards. The other face of the perforated plate 3 may also have a plurality of markings in the same way as the first face of the perforated plate. This ability to both rotate and to flip over is unique to the present invention since it does not comprise an axel, which would stop the perforated plate from being able to rotate since the end points of the axel would be fixed in place. The marking may be configured such that consecutive days, weeks, months or other time periods are indicated on opposing sides of the perforated plate. In this way, the perforated plate would need to be flipped over regularly to encourage more frequent inspection and therefore cleaning of the plate and device. For example, where the device is intended to be attended to every week, the indications relating to alternating weeks is provided on opposite faces of the perforated plate. In addition, since the information relating to when the device was last attended to is effectively stored in the device itself, this removes the need for this information to be stored elsewhere, such as on a computer system or in a paper record. Currently, information regarding when a bathroom was last attended to may be stored in a paper logbook. The logbook may be lost or may be damaged due to exposure to a wet environment found in a bathroom. Thus, having a means for indicating when the device was last attended to as a physical part of the device addresses at least some of the issues with existing record keeping. In addition, it is possible to cross-reference any written record with the device in order to audit the accuracy of the written record. As such, the accuracy or otherwise of the written record can be determined and thereby encourage and support the need for shower attendance required for bacterial control, in particular legionella control. In the event that there is a discrepancy between the written record and the indication provided on the device, this may indicate that proper bacterial control practices have not been followed and may instigate bacterial control practices, such as flushing and cleaning, in order to ensure that the device is safe to use.

Figure 13a depicts a cross section through an ablutionary device according to the present invention. The depicted ablutionary device includes all of the features of any aspect of the present invention described herein. The embodiment of Figure 13a depicts the case where the retaining means does not comprise markings to indicate when the device was last attended to. Instead, the markings are included on face dial 34, which may be in the form of a ring which overlies retaining means 4. The face dial 34 comprises dial locating pin 35 that engages with a corresponding pin receiver 36 disposed on the ablutionary device. The pin receiver 36 and the dial locating pin 35 engage to retain the face dial 34 in a specific orientation relative to the ablutionary device. Also depicted is key 33. The key 33 may be of any suitable shape, but is depicted as being in the form of a circular disc. The key comprises a handle 37 which is used to assist with rotating the perforated spray plate 3 when the key is engaged with the spray plate 3. The key 33 may engage with the spray plate via one or more engagement pins 39. The engagement pins 39 are substantially the same size as the perforations 9 in the spray plate 3 and may serve to clean the perforations 9 when inserted therein. The key 33 may also comprise means for engagement with the spray plate 3 arranged such that the key 33 may only engage with the spray plate 3 in a specific orientation. In the depicted embodiment, there are two pins 38 that engage with two perforations in the spray plate 3. This is most clearly shown in Figure 13b.

Figure 13b depicts a front view of the key 33 in engagement with the spray plate 3 of the ablutionary device. The handle 37 is in the form of a substantially linear, raised member. At each end of the handle 37, there is a marking 30, 31 in the form of a first arrow 30 and a second arrow 31. It will be appreciated that the markings 30, 31 are not limited to arrows and any way of indicating the different ends of the handle 37 may be used. The face dial 34 is shown as comprising a plurality of markings 32 with which the arrows 30, 31 may be aligned to indicate when the device was last attended to. The pins 38 and complementary perforations in the spray plate 3 are arranged such that the key 33 may only engage with the spray plate 3 is one orientation. In the depicted example, this is achieved by having one pin radially outboard of a second pin, but any other suitable means for forcing the key 33 to engage with the spray plate 3 in one particular orientation may be used. For example, one of the pins and associated perforations 9 may be larger than the other pins and perforations, or the pin and associated perforation may be of different shapes to the other pins and perforations. The embodiment depicted in Figures 13a and 13b is particularly suitable where it is undesirable to have any markings on the ablutionary device, such as in hotels.

While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the preferred embodiments have been shown and described and that all changed and modifications that come within the scope of the inventions as defined in the claims are desired to be protected. It should be understood that while the use of words such as preferable, preferably, preferred or more preferred utilised in the description above indicate that the feature so described may be more desirable, it nonetheless may not be necessary and embodiments lacking the same may be contemplated as within the scope of the invention, the scope being defined by the claims that follow. Features of each aspect of the present invention may be combined with features of other aspects of the present invention, except where such features are mutually incompatible.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. An ablutionary device comprising:

a perforated plate having a first face and a second face; and a retaining means, wherein the perforated plate is rotatable via an intermediate position between a first position in which the first face is outwardly facing and a second position in which the second face is outwardly facing, and wherein the perforated plate is rotatable about a first axis substantially perpendicular to the first or second face and extending from the center of the first or second face, and wherein the perforated plate may be locked in the first, second, and intermediate positions by the retaining means.

2. An ablutionary device according to Claim 1, wherein at least one of the perforated plate faces and the retaining means comprises at least one marking indicating the relative rotation of the perforated plate face and the retaining means.

3. An ablutionary device according to any preceding claim, wherein the retaining means comprises an aperture defined by an aperture wall, and the perforated plate comprises a peripheral surface, the perforated plate is located substantially within the aperture, the peripheral surface substantially corresponds with the aperture wall, wherein the perforated plate has a closed position and an open position; and the perforated plate is rotatable between the closed position and the open position about an axis; wherein the axis passes through the centre of the perforated plate and is substantially parallel to the plane of the aperture.

4. An ablutionary device according to any preceding claim, wherein the ablutionary device further comprises a body defining an interior passage.

5. An ablutionary device according to any preceding claim wherein the ablutionary device further comprises a mounting means and a flushing port, wherein the mounting means comprises a discharge port, wherein the mounting means has a first position wherein the discharge port is in fluid communication with the flushing port, and wherein the mounting means has a second position wherein the discharge port is in fluid communication with the interior passage.

6. An ablutionary device according to any preceding claim wherein the ablutionary device further comprises a chamber.

7. An ablutionary device according to claim 6 wherein the chamber is defined by a chamber wall and wherein the shape of the peripheral surface substantially corresponds to the shape of the chamber wall.

8. An ablutionary device according to claim 7 wherein when the perforated plate is in the open position at least a portion of the peripheral surface is in contact with at least one of the chamber wall, a seal, or the retaining means.

9. An ablutionary device according to any of claims 1 to 8 wherein the retaining means has a locked position that locks the perforated plate in the closed position, in the intermediate position, and/or in the open position, and an unlocked position to allow the perforated plate to rotate between the open and closed positions via the intermediate position.

10. An ablutionary device according to claim 9 wherein when the retaining means is in the unlocked position the retaining means is spaced apart from the perforated plate.

11. An ablutionary device according to any of claims 9 and 10 wherein the retaining means is moveable relative to the body.

12. An ablutionary device according to claim 11 wherein when the retaining means is in the locked configuration at least a portion of the retaining means is in contact with at least a portion of the perforated plate.

13. An ablutionary device comprising:

a mounting means, and a body, comprising:

a flushing port, and an interior passage;

wherein the mounting means comprises a discharge port, wherein the mounting means has a first position wherein the discharge port is in fluid communication with the flushing port, and a second position wherein the discharge port is in fluid communication with the interior passage.

14. An ablutionary device according to claim 13 wherein the ablutionary device further comprises:

a perforated plate having a first face and a second face, and a retaining means, wherein the perforated plate is rotatable via an intermediate position between a first position in which the first face is facing outwardly and a second position in which the second face is facing outwardly, and wherein the perforated plate is rotatable about a first axis substantially perpendicular to the first or second face and extending from the center of the first or second face, and wherein the perforated plate may be locked in the first, second, or intermediate position by the retaining means, optionally wherein the retaining means comprises an aperture defined by an aperture wall;

the perforated plate comprises a peripheral surface;

the perforated plate is located substantially within the aperture;

the peripheral surface substantially corresponds with the aperture wall the perforated plate has a closed position and an open position;

the perforated plate is rotatable between the closed position and the open position about an axis; and wherein the axis passes through the centre of the perforated plate and is substantially parallel to the plane of the aperture.

15. An ablutionary device according to claim 14 wherein when the perforated plate is in the closed position the perforated plate is in sealing contact with the retaining means.

16. An ablutionary device according to claims 14 or 15 wherein the retaining means has a locked position that locks the perforated plate in the closed position, in the intermediate position, and/or in the open position, and an unlocked position to allow the perforated plate to rotate between positions.

17. An ablutionary device according to any of claims 13 to 16 wherein the mounting means has a third position wherein flow of a fluid from the discharge port is prevented.

18. An ablutionary device according to any of Claims 1 to 17, wherein the perforated plate comprises at least one marking.

19. An ablutionary device according to Claim 18, wherein the retaining means comprises at least one marking.

20. An ablutionary device according to any of Claims 18 and 19, wherein the perforated plate comprises at least one marking on both faces of the plate, the at least one marking on the plate being alignable with the at least one marking on the retaining means.

21. A method for cleaning an ablutionary device, wherein the method comprises the steps of:

flushing fluid through a discharge port, wherein the discharge port is in a first position in fluid communication with a flushing port; and cleaning a perforated plate, wherein the perforated plate is in an open position.

22. The method of Claim 22, further comprising moving the perforated plate to a closed position; and moving the discharge port to a second position providing fluid to the perforated plate, optionally wherein the discharge port is initially in a third position wherein fluid flow through the discharge port is prevented, and the method includes the step of moving the discharge port from the third position to the first position before the step of flushing fluid through the discharge port.

23. The method of claims 21 to 22 further comprising the steps of moving the retaining means from a locked position to an unlocked position before moving the perforated plate from the open position to the closed position, and returning the retaining means to the locked position after moving the perforated plate to the closed position; or moving the retaining means from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration before moving the perforated plate from the open position to the closed position, and returning the retaining means to the locked configuration after moving the perforated plate to the closed position.

24. The method of any of Claims 21 to 23, wherein the method comprises aligning at least one marking on the perforated plate with at least one marking on the retaining means to provide an indication as to when the device was last attended to.

25. The method of any Claim 24, wherein the perforated plate is aligned by rotation with a key, optionally wherein the key engages with at least one perforation in the perforated plate, optionally wherein at least one perforation is arranged such that the key is only able to engage with the at least one perforation in one orientation.

26. An ablutionary device comprising a spray plate and a retaining means, wherein the spray plate and/or retaining means are configured to indicate the relative rotation of the spray plate and/or the retaining means relative to one another and/or another feature of the device.

27. An ablutionary device according to Claim 26, wherein the device comprises the ablutionary device of any of Claims 1 to 20.