US20090106888A1

US20090106888A1 - Safety device

Info

Publication number: US20090106888A1
Application number: US11/978,897
Authority: US
Inventors: Roy W. Mattson, Jr.; Philip Irewin Ogden; Paulette Christine
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2002-08-02
Filing date: 2007-10-30
Publication date: 2009-04-30

Abstract

A method or apparatus to restrain hair entrapment or body entrapment in a suction fitting or an existing faceplate of a suction fitting on a whirlpool bathtub, spa or swimming pool. The device may include a filter, or a cover, or a suction housing or a combination thereof. The filter or cover will not restrict a water outlet fitting by more than a certain percentage, if at all, when a specified amount of a specified test dirt is running through the cover or filter.

Description

CROSS RELATED APPLICATIONS

This new application is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/934,230 filed Sep. 3, 2004, which is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/797,252 filed Mar. 3, 2004 now abandon, which is a division of U.S. Pat. No. 6,760,931 issued Aug. 8, 2002.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to a safety suction device for a water vessel and incorporates improvements over patent application Ser. No. 10/934,230 to Mattson et al.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Whirlpool-type baths, spas and swimming pools have been employed to treat discomfort resulting from strained muscles, joint ailments and the like. More recently, such units have been used increasingly as means of relaxing from the daily stresses of modern life.
For as long as standard depth faceplates for suction fittings has been around for whirlpool bathtubs, spas and swimming pools, people have been trying to solve the long felt need to prevent hair entrapment. The need to prevent hair entrapment in an existing faceplate has been a persistent problem recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art. The long-felt need of preventing hair entrapment in an existing faceplate has not been satisfied by another before the Mattson invention. There are literally millions of existing faceplates possibly in need of a retrofit solution. The water safety problem is still severe at present. The 109th CONGRESS 2d Session introduced Bill S. 3718 recently. See http://www.theorator.com/bills109/s3718.html lasted visited Sep. 9, 2007. It has been reported that hair entanglement has been found by the CPSC to be the cause of every hair related fatality. The Guidelines for Entrapment Hazards: March 2005 U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Washington, D.C. 20207 Applicable Standards Appendix A found, “CPSC is aware of 43 incidents of hair entrapment or entanglement in pools, spas, and hot tubs between January 1990 and August 2004. Twelve of the incidents resulted in drowning deaths, as a result of hair becoming entangled in the drain grates. Thirty-eight incidents occurred in spas, including hot tubs, and five occurred in a pool. Typically, these incidents involve females with long, fine hair, who are underwater with their head near a suction outlet (drain). The water flow into the drain sweeps the hair into and around the drain cover, and the hair becomes entangled in and around holes and protrusions on both sides of the cover. Entrapment occurs because of the tangling and not necessarily because of strong suction forces, although the suction forces initially draw the hair into the drain cover.” See http://www.buyerschoiceinspections.com/Entrapment-Hazards.
Generally, as water is drawn in through a faceplate under high velocity flow a number of hairs lay up against or across a water flow through passage of a faceplate as seen in FIG. 13, 16, 17. Then generally, the hairs bend in two or about in half, under suction force and go through at least two water flow through passages. They then may twist or in some other manner get entrapped in the faceplate and person cannot elevate their head above a waterline and they drown. Hairs on peoples heads that are candidates for entrappement are generally long consisting of several hairs in bunches. Because of water suction draw, the hairs in bunches (several), generally are drawn across the water flow through passages of a faceplate.
Further, if the water flow through passages (channels) of the faceplate are deep and the amount of hair in the channels is sufficient, it may be difficult for a person to elevate their head above water. These are examples of some ways hair entrapment occurs.
There is evidence of efforts to solve the hair entrapment problem by others. None solve the problem but the present invention in an existing faceplate. One effort generally center on replacing the existing faceplate with so called improved faceplates. The so called “improved” faceplates do not address hair entrapment in an existing faceplate and may not be considered a “real world” solution even as an improvement. First and as discussed in more detail later, these “improved faceplates” do not appear to have water flow through openings configured to prevent hair from going through them in a manner they do not get entrapped in the faceplate. Second, it is known in the art that faceplates for suction fittings for whirlpool bathtub, spas and swimming pools generally go through independent testing. In the United States, such testing and the testing criteria are currently set forth by an ASME/ANSI STANDARD. The term ‘ASME/ANSI standard’ means as defined by Congress as a safety standard accredited by the American National Standards Institute and published by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. See the 109th Congress 2d Session Bill S. 3718 mentioned above. Also see CPSC Document #5067 titled, Children Drown and more are injured from Hair Entrapment in Drain Covers for Spas, Hot Tubs, and Whirlpool Bathtubs: Safety Alert. http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/5067.html
As late as about the date of the present invention, standard states that the suction fitting (combination faceplate and housing) must be tested together to meet the standard. It is not known how so call replacement faceplates when placed on field installed housings would meet the combination testing criteria. One test known in the art for suction fittings is the five pound hair pull test. This test specifies a certain number and type of hairs are attached to a dowel. The test further specifies that the hairs are suspended in a certain manner to the front portion of the faceplate. A certain time after water pump activation, the hairs are removed under water suction force from the front of the faceplate. If the force to remove the hairs is five pounds or less, the suction fitting meets the five pound hair pull test. This test is also only carried out a limited amount of times and does not certify the faceplate or suction fitting prevents or inhibits hair entrapment. This test does not include hair being subjected to all the water flow through passages in the peripheral edge of the faceplate. This may be why U.S. Pat. No. 5,799,339 to Perry et al. and many other newer improved faceplates such as U.S. Pat. No. 6,588,029 to Mullens have a solid surface area in the front center portion of the faceplate. This forces more water through the water flow through openings in the peripheral edge or other water flow through passages not in the center of the faceplate and disperses (scatters loosely) water suction draw from the front center, thus, aiding in passing the five pound hair pull test. None of these replacement faceplates suggest that their water flow through passages is configured to prevent hair from going through the faceplate in a manner that they prevent hair entrapment, except for certain embodiments of the present invention. Hence, no prior art teaches a real solution, except for certain embodiments of the present invention.
Liquid filters and water filters for whirlpool bathtubs, spas and swimming pools teach away from the present invention with respect to those of ordinary skill in the whirlpool bathtub, spa or swimming pool art. Water filters known method of operation is to filter debris, such as dirt and their method of operation are to clog with accumulation of dirt. One testing criteria for spa and swimming pool filters specify testing with a certain type of dirt. Tests were conducted on a whirlpool bathtub suction fitting faceplate using ISO12103-1A4 coarse test dirt by PTI Powder Technology Inc, 1433 Ewing Ave. South Burnsville, Minn. 55306. The test filter was taken from a spa cartridge filter and configured to about the size of the existing faceplate. Water draw through the existing faceplate and filter via a water pump was less than 140 gallons per minute. ISO12103-1 A 4 coarse test dirt was placed in a tub and the tub ran for about a 10 minute bath cycle. The pressure out the jets (water return fitting) indicated significant water pressure drop. Small water filters in the art are generally known to plug quick as their known operation is to trap dirt. Therefore, they would not be a real world retrofit solution for hair entrapment in an existing faceplate because they are designed to clog and thus restrict water pressure out a water return fitting such as a water jet. The term “specified test dirt” herein means dirt having the following grain size distribution ranges in a sample. 1 micron less than 0.06%-1.0%, 2 micron less than 2.2%-3.7%, 3 microns less than 4.2%-6.0%, 4 microns less than 6.2%-8.2%, 5 microns less than 8.0%-10.5%, 7 microns less than 12.0%-14.5%, 10 microns less than 17%-22.0%, 20 microns less than 32.0%-36.0%, 40 microns less than 57.0%-61.0%, 80-microns less than 87.5%-89.5%, 120 microns less than 97.0%-98.0%, 180 microns less than 99.5%-100%, and 200 microns less than 100% of the total. The term water saturated hair herein means hair that has been submersed in water.
Some inventions claim to try and inhibit hair entrapment in new whirlpool bathtubs, spas and swimming pool faceplates by providing a cavitation system. These inventions while not a viable retrofit solution are in fact not a solution at all. They all work basically on the same premises. A certain segment of a faceplate is block and an apparatus senses the blockage and cavitates the water pump inhibiting water suction draw, or possibly cutting off water suction draw through the faceplate. It is common sense that few hairs would not block off even one water flow through passage enough to cause cavitation yet could be enough to entrap hair. “suction forces initially draw the hair into the drain cover.” See http://www.buyerschoiceinspections.com/Entrapment-Hazards.
In summary, there has been a long felt need to provide an invention that will not decrease the water pressure out a return fitting by more than thirty five percent and more preferably not more than twenty percent and even more preferably not more than ten percent and most preferably not more than five percent when over one ounce of ISO12103-1 A 4 coarse test dirt is subjected to the filter or cover (faceplate) or combination thereof, over at least 1 bath cycle, and more preferably over 20 bath cycles and even more preferably over 50 bath cycles and most preferably over as many consecutive bath cycles as desired, yet prevents hair entrapment in the filter, or cover or faceplate or the existing faceplate or combination thereof, providing a total solution to hair entrapment.
Additionally, there has been a long felt need to prevent hair from becoming entangled in a fill and drain whirlpool bathtub's pump impeller. Hair, usually over 2 inches in length is needed to get lodged in a pumps impeller. Matted hair may be a breeding ground for bacteria growth in the enclosed plumbing system after tub drain down and between electrical system activation. Over time, months or years, the amount of hairs entangled in a pumps impeller could be numbered in the hundreds or thousands. As discussed above, the art has not solved this problem. One embodiment of the present invention solves this problem without significantly restricting water flow out a water return jet fitting.
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/211,497 to Mattson et al. is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety discloses a suction filter.
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/934,230 to Mattson et al. is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety discloses a retrofit solution for hair entrapment in an existing faceplate.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,588,029 to Mullens discloses a replacement cover having a “protective adapter for pool drains that incorporates a universal mounting configuration providing simple and effective installation to new and/or existing pool drains” and a configuration to “provide an anti-vortex drain cover” for “dispersing suction pressure and preventing a person's hair or other body parts from becoming entangled and otherwise preventing injury or death” such as U.S. Pat. No. 5,799,339 to Perry et al disclose. The Mullins specifications further state “providing a raised (i.e. non-planar) water flow inlet structure that is not easily blocked by a human body thereby preventing a situation wherein a person would be entrapped by suction” and “the recessed segments thus result in a structure that is resistant to blockage”. Mattson provisional No. 60/185,528 filed Feb. 28, 2000 provides a raised faceplate as does other prior art inventions. Mullins does not teach or fairly suggest that his water flow through passages is configured to inhibit hair entrapment or teach or fairly suggest how his water flow through openings are spaced, sized, or numbered to restrain hair entrapment. In view of prior art, it appears Mullins universal mounting configuration is the invention.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,066,253 issued May 23, 2000 to Idland et al. Discloses a way to attach a round filter to a faceplate. It is common sense from Idland's disclosure that his filter does not prevent hair entrapped. Inland does not describe his filter prevents hair entrapment and that it would not significantly reduce water flow out a return fitting “total solution”. Idland does not disclose that his filter water flow through openings are configured so hair would not go through the filter in a manner that the hair would become entrapped in the existing faceplate or in his perforated filter core. From Inland's disclosed “attachment means” (the invention) the filter must stick out into a tub providing an area for hair to wrap around the filter and become entangled. Inlands flange appears to cover a portion of the faceplate front opening and thus would restrict water flow. Idland does not suggest the filter's method of operation would not restrict water flow out a jet when dirt is introduced as normal water filters operate.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,799,339 to Perry et al. teaches reducing water vortex to help reduce the chance of hair entrapment with a “guide vane”.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The main aspect of one embodiment of the present invention is to provide a complete solution to hair entrapment in an existing suction fitting faceplate.
Another aspect of one embodiment of the present invention is to provide a retrofitable solution to prevent water saturated hair on a person's head from getting entangled around an existing faceplate and entrapped in an existing suction fitting faceplate for a whirlpool bathtub, spa or swimming pool.
Another aspect of one embodiment of the present invention is to provide a retrofitable solution to prevent water saturated hair on a person's head and body part from entrapment in an existing suction fitting faceplate for a whirlpool bathtub, spa or swimming pool.
Another aspect of one embodiment of the present invention is to provide a suction fitting that will not permit water saturated hair on a person's head to bend and go through the cover or filter or combination thereof in a manner that it gets entrapped in the cover.
Another aspect of one embodiment of the present invention is to provide a certain number of water flow through passages per square inch that are evenly spaced and sized to prevent, or restrain, or inhibit hair entrapment.
Another aspect of one embodiment of the present invention is to provide a filter made of a material having at least a percentage or more preferably three percent or more preferably eight percent chromium, molybdenum or other material for safety for the special environment of a spa, whirlpool bathtub or swimming pool.
Another aspect of one embodiment of the present invention is to provide a cover or filter media that prevents hair from wrapping around an existing faceplate and becoming entangled or entrapped and the cover or the filter media is easily removable from the existing faceplate with less than 15 pounds pressure.
Another aspect of one embodiment of the present invention is to configure a cover or filter media over an existing faceplate in a manner to inhibit, or restrain, or prevent hair from entangling around or causing entrapment around a portion of the cover or filter media that extends from the front surface of the existing faceplate into a tub.
Another aspect of one embodiment of the present invention is to prevent or inhibit the amount of water saturated hairs of a specified length from getting entangled in a water pumps impeller or laying in plumbing piping between usages. Current faceplates have water flow through openings sized that hair may go through them of such length that they get entrapped in the impeller. Hair helps to hold a growth of a microorganism in a plumbing system between system usages. See prior art submitted entitled Hair in Pump Circa 2005.
Since no one has ever marketed a retrofit cover or filter media that solves the hair entrapment problem in existing faceplates, one aspect of the present invention is to provide packaging to efficiently market one embodiment of the present invention.
Another aspect of one embodiment of the present invention provides means functioning to restrain, or inhibit, or prevent hair entrapment around an existing faceplate (it goes over the existing faceplate) and at the same time restrains, or inhibits, or prevents hair entrapment in a portion of the invention that extends past the front surface of the existing faceplate into a tub, and restrains, or inhibits, or prevents hair entrapment in the water flow through passages of the existing faceplate and allows a specified test dirt to pass through the invention over multiple usages without significantly restricting the water flow out a water return fitting.
Other aspects of embodiments of the present invention will appear from the following description and appended claims, reference being made to the accompanying drawings forming a part of this specification wherein like reference characters designate corresponding parts in the several views.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a configuration of a standard water vessel having a closed loop piping system.

FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is an illustration another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is an embodiment of a square inventive cover.

FIG. 5 shows how one embodiment of the filter operates.

FIG. 6 shows how hairs can become entrapped in an existing faceplate.

FIG. 7 is a side view of one embodiment of filter media 9 having offset water flow through passages.

FIG. 8 shows an illustration of one embodiment of the present inventions filter media that inhibits or prevents hair entrapment and body entrapped.

FIG. 8B shows how one embodiment of the present invention functions.

FIG. 9 shows how one embodiment of the present invention functions.

FIG. 10 shows how one embodiment of the present invention functions.

FIG. 11 shows one embodiment of a combination cover and filter.

FIG. 12 shows how one embodiment of the present invention functions.

FIG. 13 shows how one embodiment of the present invention functions.

FIG. 14 shows one embodiment of the present invention functions having a faceplate that inhibits or prevents hair entrapment and suction housing where the two are configured to resist breakage.

FIG. 15 shows one embodiment of a segment of filter media 9 having a specially configured flow through passage.

FIG. 16 shows how one embodiment of the present invention functions.

FIG. 17 shows side view of how one embodiment of filter 9 operates.

FIG. 18 shows one embodiment of the present invention suction fitting.

FIG. 19 shows a rear view of one embodiment of a cover.

FIG. 20 shows embodiments of packaging for the present invention.

Before explaining some of the embodiments of the present invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of the particular arrangements shown, since the invention is capable of other embodiments as claimed or not claimed and all details herein or otherwise are envisioned by the present invention and fall into the scope of the present invention. Also, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Additionally, while certain embodiment and features are shown and described together, one or more features are substituted between the embodiments to form and claim other embodiments or are subtracted to form other embodiment of the present invention. The term water flow through passage or water flow through passages in one embodiment of the present invention means at least one opening that water passes through. The term hair entrapment, or entrapped, or entrap, herein, means that a person's water saturated hair attached to their head will not get caught in the water flow through passages of an existing faceplate or in the present invention so the person cannot elevate their head above a waterline in a tub under their own means without the aid of any external device that is not part of their body and thus they drown. All embodiments herein are shown by way of example and not limitation. The present invention envisions all configurations of to achieve its goal(s) stated herein or otherwise and all configurations fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention any part or segment of a part shown herein or variation thereof, is matted with any other part or segment of part to form another embodiment of the present invention. In other words if FIG. 2 shows a part or a segment of a part that part or segment is utilized on another part or segment in another figure to make another embodiment. In one embodiment of the present invention the same holds true for any terminology or function. In one embodiment of the present invention all terminology or function are interchangeable within the figures or outside the figures. Certain embodiments of the present invention work on fill and drain whirlpool-type baths, spas, swimming pools and other apparatuses. The present invention also envisions other uses that are not described herein and all uses are envisioned and fall into the scope of the present invention. The ways shown herein of preventing hair from going through the invention in a manner to prevent or inhibit hair entrapment in a faceplate is shown by way of illustration and not limitation. Certain embodiments of the present invention operate in numerous other ways to accomplish its goal and all ways fall into the scope of the present invention. In other words how people normally act in a spa, swimming pool and whirlpool bathtub. It does not mean under simulated use where hairs are forced in an unnatural way through the invention such as using twisters and a microscope for an example and not limitation. All sizes and configurations herein are shown by way of example and not limitation as they vary depending on the embodiment desired. The present invention envisions all sizes and configurations and all sizes and configurations fall into the scope of the present invention. The present invention envisions all terminology to describe aspects of the present invention. It is additionally understood that this disclosure may be condensed for the national stage without adding new matter. The term consecutive bath cycles means herein the tub is drained of water after each bath cycle and refilled with water.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring first to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is an example of one embodiment of a water vessel assembly 1 having a tub 6 and the tub having tub wall 6A and output jets 75 (water return fitting). The water vessel is shown by way of example and not limitation. In one embodiment of the present invention suction fitting 31 draws water from in a tub into suction line 4 and into the pump 3. Suction fitting 31 Pump 3 pumps water through return line 5 into through jets 75 and into tub 6. In one embodiment of the present invention suction fitting 31 has existing faceplate 14 (not shown). In one embodiment of the present invention suction line 4 is sloped upwards from suction fitting 31 to water pump 3 to provide efficient water drainage from pump 3 to suction fitting 31. Jets 75 and suction fitting 31 are shown by way of example and not limitation. Jets 75 in one embodiment of the present invention are meant to illustrate one type of a water return fitting. All water return fittings are envisioned by the present invention and fall into the scope of the present invention. Water vessel assembly 1 is shown by way of example and not limitation as certain embodiments of the present invention works on all forms of water vessels and other types of systems. In one embodiment of the present invention at least one jet 75 has filter media 9. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured to jet 75 as in the same fashion as to an existing faceplate 14 shown herein. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured to cover a nozzle of jet 75 (not shown). The present invention envisions all ways to attach filter media 9 to a segment of jet 75 and all ways are envisioned by the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 inhibits or reduces the chance of a long hair two inches in length or the like from going through jet 75 from tub 6 into the outlet water pipe 5. In one embodiment of the present invention filter 9 is configured to restrict jet 75 less than 10% and more preferably less than 5%. The various configurations of filter media 9 to accomplish this goal is described with respect to filter media 9 for hair safety herein. Referring to FIG. 2 shows one embodiment of safety assembly 1 having cover 2. One embodiment of cover 2 is shown having front water flow through passage(s) 8 and side water flow through passage(s) 7 and lower drainage water flow through passage(s) 60. Safety assembly 1 is shown by way of example and not limitation as safety assembly one is envisioned to have numerous configurations and all configurations are envisioned by the present invention and fall into the scope of the present invention. Existing faceplate 14 is generally attached to suction fitting 31 on tub 6. Existing faceplate 14 is shown only by way of example and not limitation and is meant to show one type of an existing faceplate. The present invention is capable of being configured to fit other existing faceplates. In one embodiment of the present invention optional chemical dispenser 3A is attached in some fashion or intergraded in some fashion with cover 2. In one embodiment of the present invention chemical dispenser 3A has one or more water flow through openings 4. In one embodiment of the present invention a velcro material 15A secures cover 2 over existing faceplate 14 to velcro material 15. In one embodiment of the present invention velcro material 15B secures filter media 9 over existing faceplate 14 or some other existing faceplate (not shown). All ways of securing cover 2 over existing faceplate 14 until a user or person desires to remove cover 2 is envisioned by the present invention and fall into the scope of the present invention. All attachment ways herein are shown by way of example and not limitation. Existing faceplate 14 is a component or segment of a suction fitting and generally extends into a tub. In one embodiment of the present invention filter 9 resides between cover 2 and existing faceplate 14. In one embodiment of the present invention the filter 9 provides a barrier to prevent or inhibit hair 19 from going through filter 9 in manner to become entrapped in water flow through passages 16 of existing faceplate 14 or any and all water flow through passages in a front section and peripheral edge section of an existing faceplate. This is considered the best mode though other embodiments are important. In one embodiment of the present invention existing faceplate 14 is shown without limitation and is meant only to illustrate a standard existing faceplate. In one embodiment of the present invention segment B of filter media 9 fits between existing faceplate 14 and a suction housing (not shown) at position G. This is one example how filter media 9 is configured to stay over an existing faceplate until a person removes it. In one embodiment of the present invention an additional filter media 9A is utilized to provide an extra measure of safety or durability to prevent or inhibit hair entrapment in an existing faceplate. In one embodiment of the present invention at least some of the water flow through passages of filter media 9A are offset from at least some of the water flow through passages in filter media 9. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9A has some or all the attributes of filter media 9. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is made out of a material that stretches. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured and filter media 9A is configured having a space between them small enough to inhibit or prevent a hair from going through filter media 9 and becoming twisted behind filter media 9 and filter media 9A. In one embodiment of the present invention as water moves through the filter media 9 in direction WF filter media 9 water pore openings (water flow through passages) in one embodiment of the present invention or weave pattern (water flow through passages) in one embodiment of the present invention or, knit pattern (water flow through passages) in one embodiment the present invention expands to not decrease water pressure out a return water fitting by less than 35% and more preferably by less than 15% yet prevents or inhibits hair 19 or hairs in one embodiment of the present invention from going through filter media 9 in a manner that they get entrapped in existing faceplate 14. In other words, in one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 disrupts hair flow through filter media 9. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 or filter media 9A are about the size of an existing faceplate they cover. About the size means within 40 square inches of the surface area of the existing faceplate. This provides for a very small filter. Small water filters in the art are known to filter dirt, such as test dirt. Normal water filters in the art for spas, swimming pool and whirlpool bathtubs in the United States may be tested using ISO12103-1A4 coarse test dirt. Using one ounce of this test dirt going through a standard water filter at high velocity water flow associated with a spa, whirlpool bathtub, or swimming pool, the small filter plugs rapidly. In one embodiment of the present invention as the test dirt starts to fill the water flow through passage of the filter, they expand so the filter will not restrict the water flow out a water return fitting by less than 35% and more preferably less than 15% even when several ounces of test dirt are run through the filter over several bath cycles. Expansion of the water flow through openings to reduce water restriction out a water return fitting is shown by way of example and not limitation. The present invention envisions all ways and means functioning to configure filter media 9 to reduce water restriction out a water return fitting and all ways fall into the scope of the present invention. There are other ways to configure filter 9 to prevent or inhibit hair from going through the filter in a manner it becomes entrapped in an existing faceplate while not decreasing the water pressure out a water return fitting and all ways are envisioned by the present invention and fall into the scope of the present invention. One embodiment of the present invention's filter media 9 utilizes a nylon type material. The term prevents any hair entrapment in a pump impeller herein means a hair at least 2 inches long will not wrap around the pumps impeller. The term prevent any hair from going through the filter media in a manner to get entangled in a water pump impeller herein means a hair measuring at least 2 inches in length will not wrap around the pumps impeller. In one embodiment of the present invention as dirt and the like moves through the nylon fibers (not shown), the nylon fibers may act like little knives cutting up the dirt providing less than 35% water restriction out a water return fitting yet attracting hair(s) in a manner that it will not pass through the filter in a manner that it becomes entrapped in an existing faceplate. The present invention envisions using all material that accomplishes the same goal and all material fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention filter 9 is integrated with perforated cover 2 or perforated cover 21 or existing faceplate 14. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is integrated in the manufacturing process with perforated cover 2 or perforated cover 21 (not shown) or existing faceplate 14. In one embodiment cover 2 or cover 21 is made by an injection molding process or some other process and filter media 9 is integrated in the injection molding manufacturing process with perforated cover 2 or perforated cover 21. All ways and configurations to integrate filter media 9 are envisioned by the present invention and fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention a chemical 34 resides between filter media 9 and filter media 9A. In one embodiment of the present invention chemical 34 is sized and configured to release a measured dose of at least 1 part per million after mixing with water in a tub (not shown) for about a given tub gallon capacity. “About” means within 25% plus or minus a suggested water capacity. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 or filter media 9A are disposable. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 or filter media 9A are disposable after chemical 34 is spent or in one embodiment of the present invention over 50% used. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 and filter media 9A are configured to provide that chemical 34 is replenishable. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is made of a material such as nylon that lasts at least 90 bath cycles and more preferably at least 180 bath cycles and more preferably at least 360 bath cycles before needing replacement when over 35 gallons per minute or over 70 gallons of water per minute is flow through the filter each bath cycle or when at least one ounce of ISO12103-1A4 coarse test is moving through the filter each bath cycle. Other materials that accomplish the same goal are envisioned by the present invention and fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 weighs less than 2 ounces yet accomplishes the goals set forth herein for water restriction and hair entrapment prevention. One embodiment of filter media 9A has adjustment mechanism 63 or adjustment way to allow the filter to fit more than one existing faceplate and stay over the existing faceplate until a user desires to remove it from the existing faceplate. Adjustment mechanism 63 or adjustment way is shown by way of example and not limitation and the present invention envisions all adjustment mechanisms and adjustment ways and all fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention a filter media 9 has a front surface 1A and a rear surface 1B. In one embodiment of the present invention a segment of the rear surface of the filter media 9 is configured for direct or about direct abutment with an existing faceplate 14 of a suction fitting. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured for placement in parallel manner or about a parallel manner to the cover and the faceplate so in one embodiment of the present invention as to have same or about the same water direction from the front of the water flow through passage to the back of the existing faceplate. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured to conform to about the front surface of an existing faceplate. The present invention envisions all means functioning and ways to place or keep filter media 9 in a parallel manner to cover 2 or an existing faceplate 14 and all means and ways fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 inhibits or prevents hair entrapment in the peripheral edge of existing faceplate 14 or another existing faceplate. In one embodiment filter media is configured to filter large debris such as hair that provides a food source for bacteria growth in a closed loop plumbing system. The term filters debris means only some large debris and not all debris. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured to go over existing faceplate 14 in a manner that hair 19 on a persons head 20 cannot become wrapped around filter media 9 under normal usage in a manner that a person cannot remove it and it becomes entrapped. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured to existing faceplate 14, or another existing faceplate, so that any portion extending into a tub is not sufficient that a person's hair 19 on their head 20 will not become entrapped on or around filter media 9. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured having a knit pattern, or weave pattern that prevents or inhibits hair 21A from bending in two as shown and going through filter media 9 in a manner that the hair becomes entrapped in an existing faceplate. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured having a knit pattern, or weave pattern that prevents or inhibits a hair 21A over 1 inch or more preferably over 2 inches or more preferably over 3 inches or most preferably over 4 inches in length from bending in two and going through filter media 9 in a manner that hair 21A becomes entrapped in an existing faceplates water flow through passage or passages. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 has a water flow through passage knit pattern, or weave pattern that helps to distribute a hair 19 across the pattern reducing water suction draw preventing or inhibiting hair 19 on a persons head over 1 inch or more preferably over 2 inches or more preferably over 3 inches or most preferably over 4 inches in length from bending in two as hair 21A is show and going through filter media 9 in a manner that the hair becomes entrapped in an existing faceplate's water flow through passage or passages. The present invention envisions adding a sharp edge 37 to the faceplate. While this may provide a small amount of extra safety, a sharp edge 37 may not be able to free all entrapped hair as it would be difficult at best to cut through a number of hairs in such a small water flow through passage. In other words, there is not enough side to side cutting motion in the small water flow through passage to provide a cutting surface large enough to sever bunched hairs under all conditions. If the water flow passages where configured to cut a large amount of bunched hairs that may present other problems. It is sometimes difficult for even a razor to sever a few hairs under these circumstances. Filter media 9 as shown is configured in one embodiment of the present invention to have about the same water flow direction through the water flow through passages to the back of an existing faceplate. This also encompasses the water flow through passages may be offset 1 to 30 degrees. In one embodiment of the present invention at least 1 and more preferably at least 50 and more preferably all the water flow through passages have the same diameter or have a diameter within 150 microns and more preferably within 100 microns and more preferably at least 50 microns. In one embodiment of the present invention the water at least 10 percent and more preferably all the water flow through passages are evenly spaced less than 200 microns and more preferably less than 100 microns apart. These configurations evens out the water pressure across the water flow through passages allowing hair to lay up against the front surface of the present invention. Another way to visually illustrate the water restriction characteristics of one embodiment of the present invention, one embodiment of the present invention's filter media or cover is configured that when held in front of and within six inches of an image a person having 20/20 vision can look through the filter media or cover and distinguish what an image behind the filter or cover is. As an example if a photograph of a dog were placed behind one embodiment of the present invention a person could ascertain the photograph was a dog. Of coarse the size of the filter or cover would need to be several square inches for this demonstration. In one embodiment of the present invention over 20% and more preferably over 50% and most preferably 100% of the water flow through passages have a diameter of over 20 microns and less than 275 microns and at least 20% and more preferably over 50% and most preferably all the water flow through passages have a diameter of the same size or within 50 microns or most preferably within 10 microns of each other. While a portion of a hair may extend through some of the embodiments of present invention's filters and covers disclosed herein, the hairs are restrained, or prevented, or inhibited from extending through the filters or covers in the length, number and configuration needed (manner) to become entrapped in an existing faceplate, or the filter, or the cover, to degree a person cannot elevate their head above a waterline. In one embodiment of the present invention the water flow through passages are configured to restrain, or inhibit, or prevent 15 hairs and more preferably less Man 15 hairs and more preferably less than 14 hairs and more preferably less than 13 hairs and more preferably less than 12 hairs and more preferably less than 11 hairs and more preferably less than 10 hairs and more preferably less than 9 hairs and more preferably less than 8 hairs and more preferably less than 7 hairs and more preferably less than 6 and more preferably less than 5 hairs and most preferably less than 4 hairs from going through the water flow through passages in a manner they become entrapped and a person cannot elevate their head above a waterline. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 is configured to an existing faceplate to be removed without a tool. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 is configured to an existing faceplate to be removed with less than 5 pounds pressure. In the one embodiment of the present invention this is accomplished by the water flow through openings of the cover having the same or larger diameter than the existing faceplate. Hence, there is little water suction draw through cover 2 allowing for easy removal. This provides that if hair becomes entangled in the cover in one embodiment of the present invention, cover 2 is easily removed. In one embodiment of the present invention all the water flow through openings in cover 2 have a surface area larger than all the water flow through passages in an existing faceplate. This also provides for easy removal of less than 15 pounds or more preferably less than 5 pounds force to remove cover 2 from an existing faceplate when the high velocity water is moving through cover 2. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is for easy removal of less than 15 pounds or more preferably less than 5 pounds force to from over an existing faceplate when high flow water pressure is moving through the filter media. There is no prior art for a water suction fitting having a second cover configured over an existing faceplate that is designed for safety reasons to pop out with minimal force, except for the present invention. U.S. Pat. No. 6,066,253 issued May 23, 2000 to Idland et al. discloses a cover where the a portion of the cover covers the water flow through openings in the existing faceplate and the Inland flange over the water flow through openings in the existing faceplate likely would act as a suction to make it difficult for a user to remove when a water pump is activated.
Referring next to FIG. 3 shows one embodiment of cover 2 having front water flow through passages 8, side water flow through passages 7 and drainage water flow through passages 60. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 is configured having a handle 30 for ease of removing cover 2 from over existing faceplate 14. The handle is shown by way of example and not limitation and the present invention envisions all means functioning to keep cover 2 or filter media 9 over an existing faceplate or means functioning to remove cover 2 or filter media 9 from an existing faceplate and all means and ways fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention filter 9 is configured to reside between cover 2 and cover 3. Cover 2 and cover 3 in one embodiment of the present invention is configured to cover existing faceplate 14 or another existing faceplate. One Embodiment of cover 3 like one embodiment of cover 2 described above has in one embodiment of the present invention means functioning to keep cover 3 over an existing faceplate until a person removes it. All means functioning are envisioned by the present invention and fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention water flow passage way 32 are positioned or configured throughout surface 33 of filter media 9. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured to cover all water flow through passages 16 on existing faceplate 14. In one embodiment of the present invention filter 9 abuts the front surface of existing faceplate 14. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured to conform to the shape or about the shape of existing faceplate 14 or another existing faceplate or faceplate (not shown). In one embodiment of the present invention cover 3 is configured having tits 4 that secure cover 3 to cover 2 until a person removes it. All means functioning and ways to secure cover 3 to cover 2 are envisioned by the present invention and fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention at least 10 of the water flow through passages 7, or 8 or 60 and more preferable most or all are configured to prevent or inhibit hair entrapment in an existing faceplate and restrict water flow out a return water fitting by less than 35% and more preferably less than 15%. In other words, in one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 has the same or at least some of the attributes or configuration as filter media 9. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured having rubber band type material 17 integrated with filter media 9 in the manufacturing process. In one embodiment of the present invention the rubber band type material 17 is a separate part from filter media 9. In one embodiment of the present invention the rubber band (elastic) type material helps keep filter 9 over an existing faceplate until a user desires removes it. In one embodiment of the present invention the inside of filter media 9 is configured having at least a segment having an adhesive 18 to keep filter media 9 over an existing faceplate until a user to remove it from the existing faceplate. In one embodiment of the present invention the adhesive is applied in a concentration so filter media 9 does not tear when removed from an existing faceplate. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured to fit snuggly over an existing faceplate to keep it over the existing faceplate until a user or person remove it. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 or cover 21 (not shown) is configured to fit snuggly over an existing faceplate to keep it over the existing faceplate until a user or person remove it. In one embodiment of the present invention the majority of water flow through passages 7 and 8 are sized smaller than the water flow through passages on existing faceplate 14. In one embodiment of the present invention at least some of the water flow through passages 7A, 8A, and 60A are larger than the at least some of the water flow through passages 7 and 8 and 60. In one embodiment of the present invention this provides a better water flow rate through the existing faceplate for a given vacuum water pressure on an inlet water line 4 shown in FIG. 1. Also, it reduces water restriction out a return water fitting. One embodiment of the present invention is configured to prevent a hair the size of over 2 inches in length from entering the closed loop plumbing system and getting entangled in pump 3 shown in FIG. 1 while restricting water flow pressure out a return fitting by less than 35, or 20 or 15 or 5 percent. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 or 3 is configured to be flexible. In other words it bends or flexes in ones hand pressure. Because the cover is a safety cover, in one embodiment of the present invention the cover 2 or 3 is made of a material that a person cannot exert enough hand pressure to break it. In one embodiment of the present invention the cover is configured having no sharp edges to cut or otherwise harm a child playing with it aged less than 5 years old. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is constructed with about flat peripheral edge surface 33 that is about the same configuration as the flat peripheral side surface of existing faceplate 14 and configured having a front surface 37A that is about the same as the front surface 36 of an existing faceplate before the filter is slipped over the existing faceplate. In one embodiment of the present invention side surface 37 of existing faceplate 14 is about parallel with side surface 37 C of cover 2 or about parallel with surface 33 of filter media 9. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 or cover 2 or cover 3 is made from a stamp mold process or cutting tool process. One embodiment of filter media 9 has an attachment mechanism 40 secured to filter media 9 to secure filter media 9 over an existing faceplate until a user removes filter media 9 from an existing faceplate. In one embodiment of the present invention removal of cover 2 or cover 3 or filter media 9 is facilitated without use of a tool. This is defined as removal by a person's body part. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 or cover 3 or cover 21 (not shown) or filter media 9 is configured for removal from an existing faceplate utilizing a tool. Tool is defined as a means of removal other than a person's body part. The attachment mechanism is shown by way of example and not limitation. The present invention envisions all attachment mechanisms means and all fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 has a color shade of blue, or red, or black, or blue or green, or another color to designate it has antimicrobial properties. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 has an indicator 38 so a user knows when it is time to replace cover 2 or filter media 9. The indicator 38 is shown by way of example and not limitation. All indicators fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 has an indicator 38 so a user knows when it is time to replace filter media 9. Indicator 38 is a dyed portion of the filter media. The dye is calibrated to release into water at a certain rate during each bath cycle. The more bath cycles the more release of dye which changes the color of Indicator 38. As the color reaches about a desired shade, this indicates it is time to replace the filter. The indicator 38 is shown by way of example and not limitation. The present invention envisions all indicators and all indicators fall into the scope of the present invention. The indicator or means functioning could even be wording located on the filter or in the filters packaging. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 has a raised (radius) front surface 34. In other words, faceplate position center C extends outward past faceplate position D and E in one embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention the filter media 9 fibers 51 are made to absorb a certain amount of dirt or water. In one embodiment of the present invention when filter media 9 in over existing faceplate 14, filter media 9 is configured to not deflect more than one half of an inch when a load pressure point of two hundred and fifty pounds in subject to the center S of the front surface side of filter media 9. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 or filter media 9 is configured having one or more suction cup 39 to secure one or the other over an existing faceplate until a user desires to remove one or the other. The suction cup and location are shown by way of example and not limitation. The present invention envisions all suction cups and their locations and they all fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention the covers combined water flow through openings have a surface area for water flow through larger than the total water flow through area in the existing faceplate. This facilitates less water restriction out a water return fitting. All means to keep the filter is direct abutment or about direct abutment with the existing faceplate is envisioned by the present invention and fall into the scope of the present invention attached to the filter or by other means. In one embodiment of the present invention filter water flow through passages (pores) 32 stretches when water passes through them. In one embodiment of the present invention filter pores 32, filters some debris, then when the some debris builds up in pores 32, pores 32 stretches allowing at least some of the debris to move through the filter media 9 and thus reduces pressure out a water return outlet fitting (not shown). One embodiment of filter 9 has at least a segment made of a layered or non layered weave pattern or knit pattern 35. This pattern disrupts a hair from going through the filter 9 in a manner that it gets entrapped in an existing faceplate. In one embodiment of the present invention when hair enters into the pattern 35 a user can remove the hair. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is made of a rigid material or semi rigid material. In one embodiment of the present invention filter at least a segment of media 9 is made out of non rigid material or a material that flexes. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured to go over existing faceplate 14 in a manner that hair on a persons head cannot become wrapped around filter media 9 under normal usage. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 or cover 3 or the combination have a hole opening (not shown) to receive attachment member 19. Attachment member 19 secures cover 2 or 3 or combination thereof to suction housing is in FIG. 14. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 or cover 3 has support ribbing or is configured in same fashion when secured to suction housing 15 so that it will not flex more than ¾ inches or ½ inches when a load pressure point of 250 pounds is subjected to center C. In one embodiment of the present invention the ribbing is configured to be a variation the ribbing found in Mattson Ser. No. 10/211,497 or U.S. Pat. No. 5,799,339 to Perry et al, which is incorporated herein by reference. The ribbing is shown by way of example and not limitation as pertaining to the present invention. The present invention envisions all ways to meet the 250 pound strength or pass a 150 pound test and all ways fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured having a depth of less than four inches from position X to position Y yet is configured to resist, or inhibit, or prevent hair of a length over four inches from going through the filter media in a manner it becomes entrapped in the filter media or an existing faceplate. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 has a depth of less than four inches from position G to position H yet is configured to resist, or inhibit, or prevent hair of a length over four inches from going through cover 2 in a manner it becomes entrapped in cover 2 or an existing faceplate. In other words, in one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 or filter media 9 is configured to resist, or inhibit, or prevent hair longer than the depth of the cover or filter from entrapment. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured to about the shape of existing faceplate 14 and configure to about hold that shape when removed from existing faceplate 14. One of ordinary skill in the art can see from FIG. 3 that in one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 fits over existing faceplate 14 in a manner that cover 2 only extends forward of the front surface 36 into a tub (not shown) the width of the material used to make cover 2, generally less than ½ inch or less than ¼ inch or less than ⅛ inch or less than 1/16 inch. Therefore, cover 2 in one embodiment of the present invention is configured to an existing faceplate so hair is inhibited, or prevented, from wrapping around a portion 90 of cover 2 that extends past the front surface 36 of the existing faceplate into a tub cause entrapment in one embodiment of the present invention and entanglement in one embodiment of the present invention. As disclosed here, in one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 is configured as one or more embodiments of filter media 9. In one embodiment of the present invention at least one but more preferably all the water flow through passages 7 in the peripheral edge of cover 2 overlay at least one or more preferably all the water flow through passages 16 in the peripheral edge of existing faceplate 14. In one embodiment of the present invention at least one water flow through passage 7 and more preferably all the water flow through passages 7 have a diameter larger than at least one of the water flow through passages 16 and more preferably larger than all the water flow through passages 16. This provides to help remove cover 2 from over existing faceplate 14 will less pressure providing extra safety. In one embodiment of the present invention at least one and more preferably all the water flow through passages 7 or 8 or 16 has a radius 70. This helps for efficient water flow through cover 2 and thus provides safety. In one embodiment of the present invention existing faceplate 14 is adjacent to tub wall 6A.
FIG. 4 shows one embodiment of perforated cover 21 having one or more water flow through passage(s) 10. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 12 has an adjustment mechanism so cover 12 fits more than one size existing faceplate. The adjustment mechanism 62 or adjustment way is shown by way of example and not limitation and the present invention envisions all adjustment mechanisms and means functioning to keep cover 12 over an existing faceplate or suction housing (not shown) are envisioned and fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured to cover 21 in the manufacturing process. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is another color or another shade of color than an adjacent faceplate 14 (not shown) or cover 2 (not shown) or cover 21 to call attention to filter media 9. In one instance to call attention, that filter media 9 is a safety feature, or overlays a suction inlet. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 21 is sized to slip over an existing faceplate so it does not dislodge from the existing faceplate completely until a user removes it. For added safety, in one embodiment of the present invention cover 21 is made out of a material that flexes.
FIG. 5 shows a cutaway of a water flow passage way 16 in existing faceplate 14. In one embodiment of the present invention water filter media 9 is configured to extend into water flow passage way 16 when high velocity water moves in direction WF. In one embodiment of the present invention water filter media 9 has antimicrobial properties. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured in relationship to water flow through passages 16 to extend into a water flow through passage 16 at least 1/16^thof an inch when water flow is passing in direction WF.
FIG. 6 shows users head 26 entrapped under waterline WL. Hair 19 and hair 18 are drawn through water flow passages 16 in faceplate 14. Water generally vortexes behind the water flow passages and the hair twist entrapping user's head under waterline WL. One embodiment of the present invention such as but not limited to filter media 9 reduces the water vortexing and inhibits or prevents the hair from twisting and becoming entangled in existing faceplate 14.
FIG. 7 shows filter media 9 having a water flow through passage 60. Water flow through passage 60 is offset from water flow through passage 50 in filter media 9A. This offset reducing the chance of hair from getting entrapped in an existing faceplate. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 has at least a segment of water flow through passages having a diameter over 25 microns and less than 200 microns and at least a segment of the water flow through passages have a space between them of less than 100 microns and more preferably less than 50 microns. This provides less water flow out restriction a water output fitting while preventing, or inhibiting hairs from going through filter 9 media in a manner that the hair gets entrapped in filter media 9 or an existing faceplate. In one embodiment of the present invention at least fifty percent of the water flow through passages in filter media 9 or cover 2 (not shown) are spaced less than 100 microns apart or more preferably less than 50 microns apart. In one embodiment of the present invention water flow through passage 50 has a diameter less than the diameter of water flow through passage 60. In one embodiment of the present invention the space between filter media 9 and filter 9A (between position A and B) is less than the amount of space needed for hair 61 to twist behind filter media 9 to the degree to cause entrapment. In other words, in one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9A is positioned too close to filter media 9 for hair to twist behind filter media 9 and get entrapped in filter media 9. The positioning to filter media 9 and filter media 9A is shown by way of example and not limitation. There are numerous ways to configure filter media 9 and filter media 9A to accomplish this goal to inhibit or prevent hair entrapment and all ways fall into the scope of the present invention. As disclosed herein, filter media 9A and filter media 9 are configured to not significantly restrict water flow out a water return fitting when test dirt is passing through them. Filter media 9 has as shown is configured in one embodiment of the present invention to have about the same water flow direction through the water flow through passages to the back of filter media 9A.
FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view of one embodiment of retrofit filter media 9. Filter media 9 is shown having a vertically raised portions 69. The raised portions inhibits a body part 70 from getting entrapped in an existing faceplate that filter media 9 covers. In one example, plastic channels 71 are utilized to raise the filter media 9 in a manner to inhibit or prevent body entrapment in an existing faceplate when high velocity water moves in direction WF through existing faceplate 14. The raising of filter media 9 is shown by way of example and not limitation as there are numerous ways to raise filter media 9 to inhibit or prevent body entrapment and all ways are envisioned by the present invention and fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured having a section 72. In this embodiment an existing faceplate is removed and a part of section 72 fits between the existing faceplate 14 and a suction housing 15 to keep filter media 9 over existing faceplate 14. This securing means or method is shown by way of example and not limitation. The present invention envisions all means to secure filter media 9 over an existing faceplate until a user removes it and all ways fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment filter media 9 has the same configuration as cover 2 disclosed herein and is configured to secure directly to suction housing 15 requiring a tool for removal. From reading this entire disclosure one schooled in the art would know how to accomplish this goal. In one embodiment of the present invention channels 71 have water flow through openings 73. Channels 71 are also shown by way of example and not limitation as channels 71 are envisioned to have many configurations and all configurations fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention the raised portions 71 are surrounded by filter media 9. No limitation is inferred for this combination.
Referring next to FIGS. 8B and 9. FIG. 8B shows a section of one embodiment of filter media 9 having eight water flow through passages 50. The configuration of filter media 9 is shown only as an illustration of how one embodiment of the present invention operates. The operations shown is not limited as other embodiments of the present invention achieve the same goal through different operation. All operations are envisioned by the present invention and fall into the scope of the present invention. As water is drawn through the water flow through filter media 9, filter media 9 either flexes in direction P or at least a segment of filter media 9 moves in direction. In one embodiment of the present invention a segment of filter media 9 moves into at least one water flow through passage (not shown) of existing faceplate 14 in FIG. 9. As hair 10 is drawn under high velocity water flow into water flow through passage 52, the force of the water pressure in combination with the flexing of the filter provides that the end segment B of hair 10 lays up against fibers 51 of filter media 9 inhibiting or preventing hair from going through filter media 9 in a manner that it gets entrapped in existing faceplate 14. In one embodiment of the present invention fibers 51 are micro fibers that help to prevent hair 10 from going through filter media 9 in a manner to get entrapped in an existing faceplate. In one embodiment of the present invention at least one fiber 51 absorbs water. In one embodiment of the present invention the at least one fiber 51 absorbs water and expands helping hair entrapment prevention. There is no limitation to how filter media 9 functions to inhibit or prevent hair entrapment. Filter media 9 is capable to be configured other ways to inhibit or prevent hair entrapment and all ways are envisioned by the present invention and fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention at least one fiber 51 allows water to pass right through the fiber. This helps to decrease water restriction out a water return fitting. In one embodiment of the present invention fibers 51 are configured or any other fiber disclosed herein is configured or/and made of a material that allows at least a portion of ISO12103-1A4 coarse test dirt to pass through the fiber. In one embodiment of the present invention at least one and more preferably all fibers 51 are configured to absorb water. In one embodiment of the present invention fibers 51 are configured to absorb water at least two fibers 51 and more preferably all fibers 51 expand or is stretchable over 1.5 their size before water pump activation and high velocity water flow. In one embodiment of the present invention filter 9 is configured to stretch about 2.5 times its original pre-water draw through size. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured to achieve its goals with less than 150 gallons water flow per minute. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured to achieve its goal with less than 100 gallons water flow per minute. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured to achieve its goal with more than 100 gallons water flow per minute. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured have at least some fiberglass or another material to extend its useful life beyond 50 bath cycles, and more preferably beyond 100 bath cycles. The present invention envisions all materials to achieve this goal and all materials fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention, fibers 51 are configured having small spurs 53 to inhibit or prevent hair 10 from going through filter media 9 in a manner to prevent or inhibit hair entrapment in existing faceplate 14. The spurs are only shown by way of example and not limitation. The spurs are only an example of one means functions to configure water flow through passages to inhibit or prevent hair from going through them in manner that they do not get entrapped in the filter or the cover or an existing faceplate. The present invention envisions all means functioning to configure the water flow through passages on a cover, filter or faceplate to inhibit or prevent hair entrapment and all means functioning fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 has at least a segment is made of polyvinylidene or some other material that resists creasing. The present invention envisions all materials that resist creasing and all materials fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention utilizing a crease resistant or crease inhibiting, the material aids in reducing hair entrapment and/or increasing the useful life. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is made of a syrupy extruded polymer. In one embodiment of the present invention fibers 51 are made not to substantially stretch or not stretch yet are knitted or weaved to allow at least one water flow through passage to increase in diameter the high velocity water flow passes through filter 9. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is sonic welded to a cover 2 or another cover. In one embodiment of the present invention the knit or weave pattern is made of metal or stainless steel, or metal or steel or a material having at least eight percent chromium, or some other long lasting material. In one embodiment of the present invention a segment of the invention is made of at least eight percent chromium. This is important because of the normal water chemistry environment one embodiment of the current invention functions in. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 comprises a foam material.
Referring next to FIG. 10 shows an illustration of how one embodiment of filter media 9 is configured to operate. Filter media 9 is shown with water flow through passage 55. As high velocity water flow is drawn through water flow through passage 55, water flow through passage are configured to allow ISO12103-1 A 4 coarse test dirt to flow through, but in this embodiment, the diameter of water flow through passage 55 does not expand larger than the diameter D of hair 10. This provides that hair 10 does not pass through filter media 9 in a manner that it gets entrapped in an existing faceplate yet provides not to significantly reduce water flow out a return fitting as disclosed above. In one embodiment of the present invention hair 10 is about 50 microns in diameter. In one embodiment of the present invention hair 10 is about 75 microns in diameter. In one embodiment of the present invention hair 10 has yet another diameter. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 has at least a segment having a denier thickness between 3 and 120, or 10 and 80, or 25 and 80 or over 120. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured to disrupt or alter water vortex behind an existing faceplate. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 provides to aid in a differentiation of pressure between the front of filter media 9 and the backside of existing faceplate 14. In one embodiment of the present invention this differentiation of pressure aids in habiting hair 10 from going through an existing faceplate in a manner it gets entrapped in an existing faceplate. In one embodiment of the present invention faceplate 14 is secured to housing 15 requiring a tool for removal. In one embodiment of the present invention, as noted above, filter media 9 is integrated with faceplate 14. In one embodiment of the present invention faceplate 14 is made through a plastic injection process and filter media 9 that is integrated with faceplate 14 is not made through the injected molding process. In plainer words, faceplate 14 becomes the first faceplate for a suction fitting that has an integral expandable filter segment. In one embodiment of the present invention the filter media as described above is movable and replaceable. With integrated filter media 9, faceplate 14 is configured to housing 15 in a manner that when the center portion C is subjected with a load point of 250 pounds faceplate 14 deflects less than ¾ inch in direction P. In one embodiment of the present invention at least 20%, or 25%, or 40%, or 45%, or 50%, or 70%, or all of the water flow through passages of filter media 9 is sized smaller than 140 microns, or smaller than 100 microns, or smaller than 75 microns, or smaller than 70 microns or smaller than 55 microns in diameter. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 water flow through passages are configured when high velocity water passes through them at least 3% of the water flow passages have a diameter larger than the total number of water flow through passages. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is made out of metal. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is made out of metal that resists corrosion for chemicals normally used in bathing water such as but not limited to chlorine.
FIG. 11 shows one embodiment of the present invention cover 4A having one embodiment filter media 9 integrated with cover 4. Cover 4A is configured to go over a suction housing 15 in FIG. 9 or some other suction fitting know in the art such as the Mattson suction fittings incorporated herein by reference. Opening 13 accepts an attachment means 14A to secure cover 4A to an existing suction housing. The cover 4A, housing 15 in FIG. 9, attachment means 14A and opening 13 are shown by way of example and not limitation. The present invention envisions all configurations and attachment means all configurations and attachment means fall into the scope of the present invention. The attachment means in one embodiment of the present invention is to provide the faceplate cannot be removed from a suction housing without the aid of a tool. The term tool herein means any device other than a person's body part. In one embodiment of the present invention Cover 4A also known as a faceplate is configured to meet the voluntary ASME standard. In other words, cover 4A will not deflect more than ¾″ when attached to a suction housing configured for cover 4 and preferably will not deflect more than ½″ when a load point of 150 or 250 pounds is subjected to center C. Yet, filter media 9 is configured to flex and offer hair entrapment prevention. One way to configure cover 4A to meet this strength tests and to resist cracking is to make it out of a heavy gauge material. Heavy gauge material is described by way of example and not limitation as the present invention envisions all ways to reinforce cover 4A and all ways fall into the scope of the present invention. Further, in one embodiment of the present invention cover 4A is configured to resist cracking when about 15 foot pounds impacts center C. Filter media 9 has different embodiments that are described above in this disclosure. In other words, filter media 9 is configured many ways as described above to prevent hair entrappement instead of reducing the chance of hair entrapment as other faceplates do. Therefore, in one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 and cover 4A intergraded together in the manufacturing process as a single part.
FIG. 12 one embodiment of cover 2 having tits 100. Water flows in direction WF through water flow through passages 40. Cover 2 is shown by way of example and not limitation to describe the function of this embodiment of the present invention. Generally a hair 10 under high velocity water pressure lays up against a water flow through passage 40. In other words, it is thought that it is about mathematically impossible for a hair on a persons head to enter a very small water flow through passage under high velocity water flow from hair end A. When there is a pressure differentiation hair 10 generally bends and moves through water flow through passage 40. In this embodiment of the present invention cover 2 has a tacky surface 500 between the water flow through openings or a numerous number of tits 501. Each of these means separately inhibit or prevent hair 10 that is attached to a person's head (not shown) from bending in two and going through cover 2 in a manner that it gets entrapped in cover 2 or existing faceplate 14 (not shown). These means are shown by way of example and not limitation as the present invention envisions all means to prevent hairs on a persons head from bending in two and going through cover 2 or faceplate 14 in a manner that a person drowns. All ways fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is also configured to inhibit hair on a persons head from bending in two and going through filter media 9 in a manner that it gets entrapped in cover 2 or existing faceplate 14 in a manner that causes drowning. This is inherent to one embodiment of filter 9 that is disclosed above. However, in one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is made of a material having a tacky surface or some other treated surface to accomplish the goal of preventing hair on a personal head from going through the filter in a manner that it gets entrapped causing drowning. In one embodiment of the present invention the water flow through passages 40 of cover 2 are positioned about two inches or about 2.5 inches or about 3 inches or about 3.5 inches, or about 4 inches or about 4.5 inches or about 5 inches or about 5.5 inches, or about 6 inches, or about 6.5 inches or about 7 inches or about 7.5 inches or more from the water flow trough passages faceplate 14 or an existing faceplate. Such as distant or distances prevents a hair of like length from going through the existing faceplate and becoming entrapped in the existing faceplate. In other words, if the water flow through passages in cover 2 is positioned 3 inches from the water flow through passages of an existing faceplate, hair 3 inches long would not be able to go through the water flow through passages an existing faceplate and become entrapped.
Referring next to FIG. 13, 14 shows cover 2 having filter media 9 in front section A and side section B. In one embodiment of the present invention Cover 2 and filter media 9 are referred to as “combination”. The combination is shown by way of example and not limitation as the present invention envisions all combinations and all combinations fall into the scope of the present invention. Cover 2 is configured to secure over suction housing 15 with an attachment member 24 requiring a tool for removal. The term tool herein means a device separate from a body part. Cover 2 is configured and suction housing 15 is configured to not flex more than ¾ of an inch in direction P when a load point pressure of 250 pounds is subjected to center C of cover 2. In one embodiment of the present invention suction housing 15 is configured having flange 23 for mounting suction housing 15 to a tub wall (not shown). Flange 23 generally extends into a tub. Filter media 9 is configured to inhibit or prevent hair from going through filter media 9 in a manner that it gets entrapped in the water flow through passages 9B. Cover 2 and suction housing 15 are shown by way of example and not limitation. They both are capable to various configurations to inhibit or prevent hair entrapment. All configurations are envisioned by the present invention and fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention suction housing 15 has a threaded receiving opening 29 to receive attachment member 24. Opening 29 is configured to not cross thread allowing repeated putting on and taking off over cover 2 or 3 in FIG. 3 or cover 2 in FIG. 14. In one embodiment of the present invention opening 29 is a separate metal insert. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 8 is made of the same material as a segment of cover 2. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 also known in on embodiment of the present invention as a segment of cover 2 is made of plastic, or metal, or comprised in part of chromium, or some other material. One embodiment of filter media 9 is configured as one embodiment of cover 2 shown in FIG. 13. In one embodiment of the present invention the space 60 between at least three water flow through passages is less than 1400 microns and more preferably less than 200 microns and most preferably less than 100 microns. Flange 23 is a segment of the suction housing that is a segment of a suction fitting. With these configurations, in one embodiment of the present invention besides the hair entrapment benefits it also solves the problem of water flow through the faceplate. Perry '339 appears to have less than 50% of the faceplate having water flow through openings. If the opens are large, you would get more water flow but could create a hair entrapment issue. In one embodiment of the present invention over 50% of the cover or filter has water flow through openings yet inhibits, restrains, or prevents hair entrapment. Many spas because of the size pumps they use require 5 suction fittings or more. Cutting out two of these suction fittings is a major cost benefit while still meeting the testing standards. There is no known suction faceplate that meets the ASME published testing standards and has over 50% of the total surface area as water flow through passages except for the present invention. The cover is configured to go over flange 23 to prevent hair from wrapping around flange 23.
FIG. 15 shows one embodiment of a segment of filter media 9 having flow through passage 55. Water flow through passage 55 is sized having a smaller diameter of hair 10 when hair 10 is bent in two. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is configured as with cover 2 (not shown) to meet the 250 pound load and 14 pound impact tests when attached to a suction housing 15 (not shown) requiring a tool for removal.
FIG. 16 shows a segment of filter media 9 having water flow through passages 40. Hair 101 attached to head 103 has a diameter smaller that water flow through passages 40. However, because of water pressure through the water flow through passages hair 101 lays across the water flow through passages in a manner that they do not go through the filter media 9 in a manner or through an existing faceplate water flow through passages that they get entrapped in the water flow through passages of an existing faceplate or a cover (not shown) that incorporates filter media 9. In one embodiment of the present invention the hairs are held to the filter media 9 due to water pressure force through filter media 9. In one embodiment of the present invention there is at least one water flow through passage having a space of less than 150 microns between the next water flow through passage. In one embodiment of the present invention the water flow through passages are configured to restrain, or inhibit, or prevent 15 hairs and more preferably less than 15 hairs and more preferably less than 14 hairs and more preferably less than 13 hairs and more preferably less than 12 hairs and more preferably less than 11 hairs and more preferably less than 10 hairs and more preferably less than 9 hairs and more preferably less than 8 hairs and more preferably less than 7 hairs and more preferably less than 6 and more preferably less than 5 hairs and most preferably less than 4 hairs from going through the water flow through passages in a manner they become entrapped and a person cannot elevate their head above a waterline.
FIG. 17 shows a side view of one embodiment of filter media 9 having water flow through passage 40. Even if hair 101 starts through water flow through passage 40, water flow through passage 40 and other water flow through passages shown in FIG. 16 are configured that as water pressure moves in direction WF hair 101 is forced against front surface B of filter media 9 preventing or inhibiting hair 101 to go through water flow through passage 40 in a manner that it gets entangled with other hairs (not shown) and causes hair entrapment.
FIG. 18 shows one embodiment of suction fitting 20. Suction fitting 20 is shown by way of example and not limitation. Suction fitting 20 is capable of other embodiments and all other embodiments are envisioned by the present invention and fall into the scope of the present invention. One embodiment of housing 24 has input water opening 25. Water moves through water opening 25 and generally the water outlet 19 of elbow fitting 31A. In one embodiment of the present invention opening 26 is configured to accept attachment means 28 that generally fits through attachment opening 27 on cover 2. In one embodiment of the present invention threaded nut 29B secures housing 24 to a tub wall (not shown). In one embodiment of the present invention a tub wall is located between threaded nut 29B and flange 27B. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 is incorporated into water flow through passages 10. In one embodiment of the present invention housing 24 is sloped from position A the most rearward portion of housing 24 to position B the tub end of housing 24. The slope is angled to compensate for tub wall draft not shown to allow water to efficiently drain from housing 24 into a tub 6 in FIG. 1 or some other tub. The outlet 19 of elbow fitting 31A is sloped upwards at an angle to a water pump therefore, allowing water to efficiently drain from the water pump through the elbow fitting, through the housing and through cover 2 and into a tub. In other words in one embodiment of the present invention suction fitting is configured to a tub to provide a sloped downward angle from the water pump all the way through the suction fitting. In one embodiment of the present invention housing 24 or elbow fitting 31A have a cavitation port 11 or 15. When a user blocks of the water flow through openings water suction draw through cover 2 decreases preventing body entrapment. The art has attempted to solve the problem of body entrapment by providing cavitation systems as seen in U.S. Pat. No. 6,038,712 to Chalberg et al. Chalberg appears to teach that a specified point on the faceplate (center) requires complete blockage before cavitation occurs. It appears that if the center is not blocked no cavitation occurs. Simply this is not a complete solution. The present invention will cause cavitation if only the side water flow through passages 10B or even a few of the front water flow through passages are block. The way this works is water passes the cavitation end of one of cavitation port 11 or 15. When only some of the cover 2 water flow passages (any location on cover 2) are block, air moves into the cavitation port 11 or 15 and decreases water suction draw through cover 2 as the air cavitates the water pump. One skilled in the art would assume that a cavitation opening less than ½ inch in diameter that is located about parallel to the inside of a housing would cavitate the water pump when water passes over it without any blockage of the cover or faceplate and would noticeably reduce the water output of a water return fitting. In other words over the prior art, the water draw through the water flow through openings incrementally decreases in relationship to the amount of water flow through passages that are blocked. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 is configured to suction housing 24 where it will not deflect more than ¾ of an inch when a load pressure point of 250 pounds is subjected to center C. In one embodiment of the present invention for safety reasons a tool is required to remove cover 2 from housing 24. Cover 2 and suction housing 24 are configured to accommodate water flows, configured to provide the same water restriction out a water outlet fitting and configured to provide hair entrapment safety as other embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein. One embodiment of the present invention is configured to meet the voluntary ASME/ANSI standard mentioned above. 10BC is a blow up of one embodiment of a water flow through passage 10B having filter media 9 and showing as an example and not limitation water flow through passage 50. All three water flow through passage 50 are square or rectangular and having a diameter plus or minus 20 micron of the other two water flow through passages. In one embodiment of the present invention each water flow through passage is sized less than 1400 microns in diameter and more preferably less than 200 microns in diameter most preferably less than 100 microns in diameter. In one embodiment of the present invention at least two and more preferably all the water flow through passages are spaced less that 150 microns apart. These configurations provide to distribute water suction draw pressure through the water flow passages inhibit or preventing water saturated hairs 110 on head 66 from bending in two and going through the water flow through passages in a manner to cause hair entrapment enough that a person cannot elevate their head above a waterline (not shown). Head 66 is shown having 4 hairs 110 and in is shown as an illustration and not limitation as head 66 also has 5, or 6, or 7, or 8, or 9, or 10, or 11, or 12, or more hairs (not shown). In one embodiment of the present invention over 40% and more preferably over 50% and most preferably of 70% of the surface area 44 comprise water flow through passages. From reading this disclosure is it common sense how this can be accomplished. In other words, in one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 and suction housing is configured to meet all strength and impact and hair tests set out by plumbing standards and provides a higher flow rate not previously attainable by the art. The whirlpool bathtub, spa and swimming pool art suggests for suction fittings that currently meet plumbing standards use only plastic parts made through injection molding. It is not taught in the whirlpool bath art how injection molding can produce water flow through passages 1400 microns or less in size that have a tolerance of plus or minus 20 microns for a faceplate and yet allow the suction fitting to meet the tests. Using non injected plastic for the water flow though passages does accomplish this goal. As an example and not limitation when the cover 2 has over 50% of the surface area having water flow through passages hairs per current plumbing standards (at least 50) are lowered to about position C. The water pump (not shown) is activated and water is drawn through cover 2 and it takes less than 5 pounds force to remove the hairs and provides more water draw through the cover for the same amount of force to remove the hair from the cover. Besides adding safety, this embodiment increases water flow not previously attainable in the art. The term efficient water flow herein means more water draw than a faceplate having less than 50% of the total surface area covered with water flow through passages yet meets a five pound hair pull test. Filter media 9 is made out of a material that will not corrode in water having a concentration of ¼ of 1 part per million and less than 10 parts per million of chlorine. One embodiment utilizes some chromium to accomplish this goal however other materials are envisioned by the present invention and fall into the scope of the present invention. This embodiment of the present invention as with certain other embodiments of the present invention restrains hair entrapment while not significantly decreasing water flow out a water return fitting. Embodiments of the present invention also work in other ways to restrain hair from going through the invention in manner that the hairs cause entrapment and thus drowning. This written disclosure may be silent to all these ways and to all the means functioning to provide suction fitting safety it is understood that the present invention envisions all these ways and thus all inherent to the present invention. Filter media segment 9 in one embodiment of the present invention is configured to cover 2 the filter media segment does not deflect more than ¾ of any inch in any direction when a load pressure point of one pound is applied to center A. This is one way that helps to restrain hair from going through the filter media segment in a manner to cause hair entrapment. Most known suction fittings used on whirlpool bathtubs, spas and swimming pools in the United States have faceplates having fewer than 1,000 water flow through openings and more generally less than 500. As an example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,799,339 to Perry appears to have less than 60% water flow through passages as evident by the spacing between the water flow through passages. One embodiment of the present invention has over 50% of the total surface area having water flow through passages and more preferably more than 60% and most preferably more than 70 percent. In one embodiment of the present invention a second filter media segment is located within one inch of filter media segment 9. If or when hairs goes through the second filter media segment filter media segment 9 or another filter media in close behind and in proximity of the second filter segment prevents the hairs from twisting together or in some other manner causing hair entrapment. One of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure would know how to accomplish this goal. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 is configured to have a depth of less than 1 inch from position D to position E and more preferably a depth of less than ½ inch from position D to position E and more preferably a depth of less than ¼ inch from position D to position E and most preferably less than ⅛ inch. Because of hair entrapment issues faceplates for whirlpool bathtubs and spas that meet the 5 pound hair pull test have not be able to meet small width dimensions. One embodiment of the present invention solves this problem and thus allows more bathing room inside a tub. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 is configured to have only water flow through passages in the front surface. Because of hair entrapment issues faceplates for whirlpool bathtubs and spas that meet the 5 pound hair pull test a faceplate having water flow through passages in only the front surface are currently not used for whirlpool bathtubs or spas. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 has a length from position F to position G of less than 2 feet and more preferably a less than 1 foot and more preferably a less than 8 inches and more preferably a less than 6 inches and more preferably a less than 4 inches and most preferably a less than 3 inches. Because of hair entrapment issues faceplates for whirlpool bathtubs and spas that meet the 5 pound hair pull test a faceplate less than 3 inches in length is not known for spas, or swimming pools. In one embodiment of the present invention the height of cover 2 is preferably a less than 1 foot and more preferably a less than 8 inches and more preferably a less than 6 inches and more preferably a less than 4 inches and most preferably a less than 3 inches. In one embodiment of the present invention filter media 9 has the same dimensions as disclosure for cover 2. In one embodiment of the present invention suction housing 24 has a radius R of over ¼ inch and more preferably over ½ inch and most preferably over 1 inch in the input orifice 25 at about front position N to position M. It has been found that a large radius at this point increases water flow through the suction fitting thus providing for efficient water flow. Increased water flow for a given sized suction fitting is the goal of the art and is now achievable due to the safety aspects of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention there is at least one water flow through passage having a space of less than 150 microns between the next water flow through passage. In one embodiment of the present invention the water flow through passages of cover 2 are configured to restrain, or inhibit, or prevent 15 hairs and more preferably less than 15 hairs and more preferably less than 14 hairs and more preferably less than 13 hairs and more preferably less than 12 hairs and more preferably less than 11 hairs and more preferably less than 10 hairs and more preferably less than 9 hairs and more preferably less than 8 hairs and more preferably less than 7 hairs and more preferably less than 6 and more preferably less than 5 hairs and most preferably less than 4 hairs from going through the water flow through passages in a manner they become entrapped and a person cannot elevate their head above a waterline. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 has a segment having over 101 water flow through passages per square inch and more preferably more than 201 and more preferably more than 301 and more preferably more than 401 and more preferably more than 501 and more preferably more than 601 and preferably more than 701 and preferably more than 801, and most preferably more than 899 water flow through passages per square inch in at least a segment of cover 2. There is no known art for a whirlpool bathtub or spa suction fitting faceplate having over 201 water flow through passages in a segment of the faceplate except for the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 has water flow through openings configured that when cover 2 is over an existing faceplate 14 (not shown) cover 2 is removable with less than 15 or 5 pounds pressure. As envisioned in FIG. 2 one way this can be accomplished is through the sizing of the water flow through passages. This is one example and not a limitation as the present invention envisions all ways to configure cover 2 to be removed from an existing faceplate with less than 15 pounds in one embodiment and less than 5 pounds in another embodiment and all ways fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention the cover is configured for direct abutment to an existing faceplate and for placement in about a parallel manner to the existing faceplate so as to have about the same water direction from a front of the water flow through passage to the back of the existing faceplate. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 has water flow through passages in a front surface J and peripheral edge surface K, the cover 2 configured for direct abutment to an existing faceplate 14 (not shown) of a suction fitting 15 (not shown) and for placement in about a parallel manner to the existing faceplate 14 so as to have about the same water direction from a front of the water flow through passage to the back of a water flow through passage in the front surface and rear surface of the existing faceplate, the cover 2 is configured to about the size of the existing faceplate 14, the cover 2 is capable of accommodating a high velocity water flow of at least thirty five gallons per minute, the cover 2 is configured to not restrict water flow out a water return fitting 75 (not shown) by more than twenty five percent when the high velocity water flow having one ounce of a specified test dirt is passing through cover 2 over a twenty minute time period, the cover 2 is configured to the existing faceplate 14 to provide hair entanglement safety, the cover 2 is configured so a person removes cover 2 from over the existing faceplate with less than 15 pounds of pressure. Cover 2 means functioning to keep at least a segment of the cover in direct abutment with the existing faceplate 14, and means functioning to keep at least a segment of the cover 2 mounted in a parallel manner to the existing faceplate 14 until the person removes the cover 2 from the existing faceplate 14. Hence if or when hair becomes entangled around cover 2, cover 2 is removable from existing faceplate 14 so a user cannot get their hair entangled around faceplate 14. It is known in the art that existing faceplates require a tool for removal. Thus cover 2 provides hair entanglement safety not known in the art for an existing faceplate. In one embodiment of the present invention the water flow through passages of filter media 9 or cover 2 have a combined diameter or area that is larger than the diameter or total area of input orifice 25. In other words if the diameter of input orifice 25 is three inches, all the water flow through passages of either cover 2 or filter media 9 are over three inches. This provides added safety and efficient water flow through the entire suction fitting. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 is configured to about the shape of an existing faceplate and for placement over the front surface of the existing faceplate. Thus cover 2 provides a real world solution to the long need of preventing hair entanglement in the peripheral edge and front surface of an existing faceplate while not significantly restricting water flow out a water return outlet fitting. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 has at least one segment of at least 200, or at least 300, or at least 400 or at least 500 or at least 600 or at least 700 or at least 800 or at least 900 or more water flow through passages per square inch. From reading this disclosure one skilled in the art would know how to accomplish this goal. In one embodiment of the present invention a segment of cover 2 is configured for direct abutment to an existing faceplate. From reading this disclosure one skilled in the art would know how to accomplish this goal. The term hair entanglement means to the degree a person cannot elevate their head above a waterline. In one embodiment of the present invention, for safety hair entanglement reasons, the cover is configured to be removed by hand without a tool. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 is configured to extend less than one inch pass the front portion of an existing faceplate and more preferably less than ¼″ into a tub. From reading this disclosure one skilled in the art would know how to accomplish this goal. In one embodiment of the present invention at least a segment of cover 2 is made out of injectable plastic. In one embodiment of the present invention the abutment of filter media 9 as shown in FIG. 3 to the existing faceplate inhibits water saturated hairs on a person's head from getting entrapped around a portion of the filter media 9 extending into a tub when the high velocity water flow is passing through the filter media. In other words filter media 9 is configured to not extend substantially into a tub (not shown). In one embodiment filter media 9 is shown attached to water flow through opening 10 and in one embodiment between the faceplate and housing. In one embodiment of the present invention a filter media segment 9 is configured for placement in a parallel manner suction housing 24 so as to have about the same water direction from a front of the water flow through passage in filter media segment 9 to the back Z of suction housing 24. In other words in one embodiment of the present invention water flows in about a straight direction through at least one water flow through passage to the back of housing 24 providing for high water flow through the cover while meeting the five pound hair pull test disclosed herein. In one embodiment of the present invention housing 24 has cross support 88 to support cover 2. Cross support 88 acts like ribbing so cover 2 will not deflect more than ¾ of an inch when a load pressure point of 150 pounds is subjected to the front center portion C of cover 2. Cross support 88 is shown by way of example and not limitation. Cross support 88 is envisioned by the present invention capable of having numerous configurations. All means functioning to prevent or inhibit cover 2 from deflecting more than ¾ of an inch is envisioned by the present invention and falls into the scope of the present invention.
FIG. 19 shows a rear view of one embodiment of cover 2 having filter media four filter media 9 segments having water flow through passages 50 and ribbing 9E. Ribbing 9E provides that when cover 2 is over suction housing 24 in FIG. 18 or suction housing 15 in FIG. 14, cover 2 will not deflect more than ¾ of an inch when a load pressure point is subjected to center C. The ribbing is shown by way of example and not limitation as the present invention envisions all means functioning to prevent cover 2 from deflecting more than ¾ of an inch when attached to a suction housing and all means functioning fall into the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 measures less than 6 inches in height, less than 6 inches in length and less than 3½ inches deep. Cover 2 is configured as disclosed above to resist, or prevent, or inhibit or restrain hair entrapment in cover 2 or an existing faceplate. In one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 has four radius corners 7. The water flow through passages is shown as an illustration and not a limitation. In one embodiment of the present invention one or more or all filter media segments 9 are removable from cover 2 and are replaceable. Filter media segments 9 are shown by way of example and not limitation. The present invention envisions any number of filter media 9 segments in all configurations and all configuration fall into the scope of the present invention. The water flow though passages shown are generally numerous and in various locations on cover 2. FIG. 19 primarily is to show the ribbing and that the filter segments are replaceable. Cross support 88 in one embodiment of the present invention helps to reduce water vortex behind cover 2 and is shown by way of example and not limitation. The present invention envisions all ways to decrease water vortex and all ways fall into the scope of the present invention.
FIG. 20 shows one embodiment of packaging 400. One embodiment of the present invention attaches to or is enclosed in packaging 400. One skilled in the art would know how to accomplish this goal. In one embodiment of the present invention packaging 400 has safety wording 401 that expresses to a consumer the need for one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 (not shown) or filter media 9 (not shown) or the combination. In one embodiment of the present invention packaging 400 has operation wording 401 that expresses to a consumer how one embodiment of the present invention cover 2 or filter media 9 operates as described herein or otherwise. In one embodiment of the present invention a user is depicted having at least one hair 402 caught in a faceplate 14. In one embodiment of the present invention depicts having at least one hair 402 caught in a faceplate 14. In one embodiment of the present invention a pump 3 is shown on package 400 having hair 405 caught in a segment of the pump. In one embodiment of the present invention a hole 3 is in packaging 400 for mounting on a display. In one embodiment of the present invention wording 406 is a liability disclaimer. In one embodiment of the present invention at least one word is in the color yellow or red. In one embodiment of the present invention packaging 400 has wording 407 that expresses a suggestion or absolute time when cover 2 or filter media 9 or combination thereof should be replaced. There is no known prior art for a safety suction device that restrains, inhibits, or prevents hair in an existing faceplate for a suction fitting on a spa, whirlpool bathtub, or swimming pool, that has packaging that teaches or fairly suggests this method of marketing except for the present invention. Packaging 400 is shown by way of example and not limitation and the present invention envisions all packaging and all packaging fall into the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1-20. (canceled)

21. A safety suction device for a whirlpool bathtub, or spa, or swimming pool, comprising:

a cover for a suction housing of the whirlpool bathtub, spa or swimming pool, the cover having water flow through passages and measuring less than eight inches in length, less than eight inches in height and less than four inches in depth;

a filter having water flow through passages;

wherein the cover and the filter are together configured to accommodate a high velocity water flow of over thirty five gallons per minute being drawn from the whirlpool bathtub, spa or swimming pool through their respective water flow through passages by the suction housing;

wherein the safety suction device is configured to restrict water flow out a water return fitting of the whirlpool bathtub, spa or swimming pool by less than fifteen percent when the high velocity water flow is flowing through the safety suction device; and

wherein, in the presence of the high velocity water flow through the safety suction device, the water flow through passages of the filter and the cover are sized and oriented with respect to each other to inhibit or prevent water saturated hair on a person's head from engaging with the water flow through passages of the filter and the cover in a manner that they become entangled so as to prevent the person from raising their head above a waterline of the whirlpool bathtub, spa or swimming pool.

22. The safety suction device of claim 21, wherein the filter is integrated with the cover during an injection molding process to form a single part.

23. The safety suction device of claim 21, wherein the filter has an inside surface, at least a portion of which is configured for placement adjacent to the cover and for placement in a parallel manner to the cover so as to maintain water direction at entry points of the water flow through passages of the filter to a back side of the cover.

24. The safety suction device of claim 21, wherein the filter is made out of a material that stretches.

25. The safety suction device of claim 21, wherein a diameter of each of the water flow through passages of the filter is between approximately 20 microns and 275 microns.

26. The safety suction device of claim 21, wherein the water flow through passages of the filter number greater than 101 per square inch.

27. The safety suction device of claim 21, wherein the water flow through passages of the filter are substantially evenly spaced apart by less than approximately 200 microns.

28. The safety suction device of claim 21, further comprising a cavitation system that decreases water draw incrementally through the water flow through passages of the filter and the cover in relation to an amount of the water flow through passages that are blocked.

29. A retrofit water filter media for a faceplate of a whirlpool bathtub, a spa or a swimming pool, the retrofit water filter media comprising:

an outside surface and an inside surface having formed therein a plurality of water flow through passages, at least a portion of the inside surface of the retrofit water filter media is configured for placement adjacent to an existing faceplate of a suction fitting of a whirlpool bathtub, spa or swimming pool having a water suction inlet and for placement in a parallel manner to the existing faceplate so as to maintain water direction at entry points of the plurality of water flow through passages to a back side of the existing faceplate;

the plurality of water flow through passages sized to inhibit water saturated hair on a person's head from penetrating the existing faceplate in a manner to prevent the person from raising their head above a waterline of the whirlpool bathtub, the spa or the swimming pool in the presence of high velocity water flow being drawn from the whirlpool bathtub, the spa or the swimming pool through the existing faceplate; and

wherein the retrofit water filter media is configured to about the size of the existing faceplate, the retrofit water filter media is configured to be placed over the existing faceplate and be retained thereon until a person removes the retrofit water filter media from the existing faceplate, the retrofit water filter media is capable of accommodating a high velocity water flow of at least thirty five gallons per minute, the retrofit water filter media is configured to not restrict water flow out of a water return fitting of the whirlpool bathtub, spa or swimming pool by more than thirty five percent when the high velocity water flow is passing through the retrofit water filter media.

30. The retrofit water filter media of claim 29, wherein a stretchable material forms the plurality of water flow through passages.

31. The retrofit water filter media of claim 29, wherein the stretchable material comprises nylon.

32. The retrofit water filter media of claim 30, wherein the plurality of water flow through passages result from a weave or knit pattern of fibers of the stretchable material.

33. The retrofit water filter media of claim 29, wherein a diameter of each of the plurality of water flow through passages is between approximately 20 microns and 275 microns.

34. The retrofit water filter media of claim 29, wherein the plurality of water flow through passages number over 101 per square inch.

35. The retrofit water filter media of claim 29, wherein the plurality of water flow through passages are substantially evenly spaced apart by less than 200 microns.

36. The retrofit water filter media of claim 29, further comprising a chemical that releases into water.

37. A safety suction device for a whirlpool bathtub, spa or swimming pool, comprising:

a safety device configured for placement over an existing faceplate so as to cause a segment of the safety device to directly abut a segment of the existing faceplate;

means functioning to inhibit body entrapment in the safety device and the existing faceplate from a suction force created by over thirty five gallons per minute water flow passing through the existing faceplate;

means functioning to reduce hair entrapment in the existing faceplate from suction force created by the over thirty five gallons per minute water flow passing through the existing faceplate;

means functioning to keep the safety device over the existing faceplate until a person removes it; and

wherein the safety device is configured to reduce water pressure out a water return fitting by less than thirty five percent when the over thirty five gallons per minute water flow is passing through the safety device and the existing faceplate.

38. The safety suction device of claim 37, wherein the means functioning to inhibit body entrapment comprises a raised member having a water flow through opening in direct abutment to a filter media

39. A safety device for a whirlpool bathtub, a spa or a swimming pool, comprising:

a suction faceplate;

a first filter media, the first filter media directly abuts a segment of the suction faceplate or is integrated in the injection molding process with the suction faceplate to form a single part, the first filter media includes water flow through passages at least three of which are spaced less than 1,400 microns apart, the water flow through passages are configured to prevent hair entrapment in the suction faceplate in a form of a person being prevented from raising their head above a waterline of the whirlpool bathtub, the spa or the swimming pool when a high velocity water flow of thirty five gallons per minute is passing through the first filter media;

a water jet; and

a second filter media, the second filter media abuts a segment of the water jet, the second filter media and the first filter media are configured to not restrict water flow out of the water jet by more than thirty five percent when the high velocity water flow is passing through the suction faceplate.