INTEGRATED FAUCET ASSEMBLY WITH PULL DOWN SPRAYER AND POWER SCRUBBER

Abstract

A faucet assembly with a retractable spray head capable of spraying or dispensing fluid through different nozzles and removably coupling to a cleaning module. Once attached, a cleaning module may assist a user in a cleaning operation. Both the nozzles and the cleaning module may be activated through an actuating mechanism of the faucet assembly. In one example, the actuating mechanism may selectively operate the nozzles to allow for different spray types, e.g., an oxygenated sweep, laminar flow, etc. Additionally, the actuating mechanism may also engage a motor of the spray head to impart movement, e.g., rotational, lateral, swirling, etc., to the attached cleaning module. Once a cleaning operation is completed, a pulling force may be applied to break the magnetic connection and decouple the module from the spray head.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

Examples herein generally relate to faucet assemblies for dispersing fluids, such as liquids. More specifically, the present disclosure describes a retractable sprayer of a faucet assembly capable of spraying a fluid and attaching to a cleaning module.

BACKGROUND

Traditionally, a faucet encompasses a singular pathway or channel for fluid to pass. In operation, the fluid is dispersed out of an outlet of the faucet and by itself, or in combination with cleaning solutions, is used to remove remnants, residue, or other particulates off dishes, containers, or other objects. However, because the fluid is only dispersed along a singular pathway at a particular pressure, the fluid often does not adequately clean or remove particulates from an object. This is often the case when dishes or objects include troublesome or hard to reach internal or external corners. While external tools may be used in the form of sponges, brushes, or other handheld devices to assist in the cleaning, such tools often run the risk of breaking or damaging delicate and fragile objects. Moreover, if not cleaned properly themselves, the tools may subject an object to undesirable smells and bacteria. What is needed in the field is a spraying assembly that allows for efficient and optimal cleaning of an object without requiring significant user effort.

SUMMARY

An example of the present disclosure relates to a faucet assembly with a retractable spray head capable of spraying fluid through different nozzles and magnetically coupling to a cleaning module. Once attached, a cleaning module may assist a user in a cleaning operation. Both the nozzles and cleaning module may be activated through an actuating mechanism of the faucet assembly. In one example, the actuating mechanism may selectively operate the nozzles to allow for different spray types, e.g., an oxygenated sweep, laminar flow, etc. Additionally, the actuating mechanism may also engage a motor of the spray head to impart movement, e.g., rotational, lateral, swirling, etc., to the attached cleaning module. Once a cleaning operation is completed, a pulling force may be applied to break the magnetic connection and decouple the module from the spray head.

An example of the present disclosure relates to a faucet assembly having a spray head with a first plurality of nozzles and a second plurality of nozzles, the first plurality of nozzles configured to perform a first fluid dispersal operation, the second plurality of nozzles configured to perform a second fluid dispersal operation. The faucet assembly can further include a hose couplable to the spray head and configured to deliver fluid to the spray head. The faucet assembly can further include a connector couplable to the spray head and configured to magnetically couple the spray head to a cleaning module. The faucet assembly can further include an actuating mechanism configured to operate the first plurality of nozzles and the second plurality of nozzles. The actuating mechanism can further include a motor configured to drive movement of the cleaning module through the connector. The spray head and the hose can be configured to extend outward and retract inward, and the cleaning module can be configured to remove debris and particulates from kitchenware when the cleaning module is driven by the motor.

In examples, the faucet assembly can further include a coupling mechanism positioned between the spray head and the hose, wherein the spray head is configured to receive fluid through the coupling mechanism from the hose. In examples, the coupling mechanism can include one or more electrical terminals for supplying electricity to the spray head and the actuating mechanism. In examples, the first fluid dispersal operation and the second fluid dispersal operation can include one of an aerated stream, a laminar stream, and a spray stream. In examples, the first plurality of nozzles can be positioned proximal an outer circumference of the spray head and the second plurality of nozzles can be positioned distal the outer circumference of the spray head. In examples, the cleaning module can be configured to actuate to remove debris and particulates from kitchenware during operation.

In examples, the cleaning module can include a receiving body having an inlet for coupling the receiving body to the connector. In examples, the cleaning module can include one or more projectiles to facilitate debris and particulate removal from kitchenware. In examples, the one or more projectiles can be positioned proximate one or more openings in the receiving body, and the receiving body can include one or more fluid jets configured to disperse fluid through the one or more openings and onto the one or more projectiles during operation of the cleaning module. In examples, the actuating mechanism can include at least one controller for operating the first plurality of nozzles, the second plurality of nozzles, and the motor. In examples, the spray head can further include a side sprayer configured to disperse steam through an outlet defined in the spray head.

An example of the present disclosure relates to a faucet assembly having a spray head configured to disperse fluid received from a hose couplable to the spray head, the spray head including a plurality of nozzles configured to alternate between a first fluid dispersal operation and a second fluid dispersal operation using a nozzle controller. The faucet assembly can further include a cleaning module magnetically couplable to the spray head. The faucet assembly can further include an actuating mechanism configured to drive movement of the cleaning module using a motor. The spray head and the hose can be configured to extend outward and retract inward, and the cleaning module can be configured to remove debris and particulates from kitchenware when the cleaning module is driven by the motor.

In examples, the faucet assembly can further include a motor controller for operating the motor and driving movement of the cleaning module. In examples, the nozzle controller can include at least one nozzle button configured to alternate the plurality of nozzles between the first fluid dispersal operation and the second fluid dispersal operation.

An example of the present disclosure relates to a faucet assembly having a spray head configured to disperse fluid received from a hose coupled to the spray head, the spray head including a plurality of nozzles configured to alternate between a first fluid dispersal operation and a second fluid dispersal operation using a nozzle controller. The faucet assembly can further include a coupling mechanism positioned between the spray head and the hose, the coupling mechanism including one or more electrical terminals for supplying electricity to the spray head. The spray head can further include a side sprayer configured to disperse steam through an outlet defined in the spray head. In examples, the faucet assembly can further include a cleaning module and an actuating mechanism, the cleaning module being couplable to the spray head, such as magnetically couplable, the actuating mechanism being configured to drive movement of the cleaning module using a motor. In examples, the cleaning module can define an opening that steam from the side sprayer is dispersed through. In examples, the cleaning module can include one or more projectiles configured to remove debris and particulates from kitchenware when the cleaning module is driven by the motor.

It is to be understood that the above general description is exemplary and explanatory only and is not restrictive of the system as claimed. The system can be capable of other examples and of being carried out in various ways. Alternative exemplary examples can relate to other features and combination of features.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a faucet assembly in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1B is a perspective spray pattern in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1C is another perspective spray pattern in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an actuating mechanism in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a coupling mechanism in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3B is a perspective view of electrical components that may be used to provide electrical power to a spray head in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a cleaning module in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 5A-5C are additional cleaning modules that may be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a side sprayer with steam functionality in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.

While various examples are amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof, have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the claimed disclosures to the particular examples described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the subject matter as defined by the claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1A shows a faucet assembly in accordance with an example of the present disclosure. Faucet assembly 100 includes a spray head 106 attached to a retractable hose 104 through a coupling mechanism 102. In operation, spray head 106 may receive fluid and electricity through hose 104 and coupling mechanism 102 to carry out a spraying operation. Beginning with hose 104, hose 104 may be made of any suitable material and be sized and shaped to receive and deliver fluid to spray head 106 from a fluid source. In operation, hose 104 may extend and retract along with spray head 106 from a faucet body (not shown) upon receiving a user input, e.g., pulling force.

Spray head 106 illustratively includes a spray head body 114 with a connector 112 and nozzles 108 and 110 for carrying out a spraying operation through an outlet 116. Nozzles 108 and 110 may include different nozzle types depending on a desired spraying operation. In one example, nozzles 108 may allow for an oxygenated sweep to sterilize food, allow for better coverage, and optimize a washing cycle while nozzles 110 allow for a laminar flow of fluid suitable for a rinsing or filling operation. In this example, nozzles 110 may include a plurality of openings for aerating a flow of fluid to allow for a laminar flow of highly oxygenated fluid. However, other types of nozzles may be used as well in accordance with the present disclosure.

As illustratively shown, nozzles 108 may be positioned on an outer circumference of spray head body 114 with connector 112 and nozzles 110 located along the interior. However, it is to be understood that nozzles 108 and 110 and connector 112 may be positioned at any point along body 114 to carry out a spraying operation. Additionally, nozzles 108 and 110 may be intermixed so that different spray types may work in tandem. Nozzles 108 may also be functionally or aesthetically separated from nozzles 110 using dividers 118. Dividers 118 may include rings, bands, or any other marks for separating nozzles on spray head body 114.

In operation, a user may readily grip and pull spray head body 114 from faucet assembly 100 to carry out a cleaning operation. In one example, spray head body 114 is sized and shaped to fit readily within a user's grip. For example, spray head body 114 may take the form of a “slim” spray that is smaller and more compact than traditional spray heads. Further, spray head body 114 may be made of a wide variety of different materials. For example, spray head body 114 may include a metal, epoxy, gloss, etc. depending on a desired friction coefficient or grip.

Connector 112 may be used to connect spray head 106 to a cleaning module as will be discussed further with respect to FIG. 4. However, briefly, connector 112 may be made of ferromagnetic materials for establishing a magnetic connection between connector 112 and a cleaning module. Once attached, a cleaning module may be used to assist in the removal of troublesome residue or debris. Additionally, through connector 112, a motor may also impart movement to the cleaning module as will be discussed in greater detail below. While a magnetic connection is used in some examples, it is to be understood that additional or different mechanisms may be used as well, e.g., fastening mechanisms, adhesives, corresponding threads, etc.

FIG. 1B illustratively shows a spray pattern in accordance with an example of the present disclosure. As illustratively shown, nozzles 108 may spray a fluid along fluid path 122. In one example, path 122 may include an angle directed away from a center axis 126. In operation, spraying along path 122 may allow for an efficient and effective cleaning of objects with a relatively large diameter. However, in other examples, it is contemplated that nozzles may be directed inward or parallel to axis 126.

FIG. 1C is another example spray pattern in accordance with an example of the present disclosure. As shown, nozzles 110 may disperse a laminar flow of fluid along a fluid path 124. In one example, nozzles 110 may allow for an aeration of fluid to disperse super-oxygenated water along path 124. Path 124 may prove especially useful in a rinsing or filling operation. However, use of heavily oxygenated water may be useful in a variety of other operations and cycles as well.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an actuating mechanism in accordance with an example of the present disclosure. Actuating mechanism 202 may be used to operate nozzles, e.g., nozzles 108 and 110, and a cleaning module during a spraying operation. More specifically, actuating mechanism 202 may include a button 210 for switching between nozzle types and a button 206 for operating a motor 208. For example, upon receiving a user input, button 206 may turn on, or activate, motor 208. Once active, motor 208 may automatically drive movement of a cleaning module through a connector, e.g., connector 112. The output force at which motor 208 drives movement of a cleaning module and type of motor may vary. However, through motor 208, it is to be understood that a cleaning module may automatically move in a defined or undefined pattern to aid in residue and debris removal. For example, a user may simply place the cleaning module over an object and projectiles of the module may automatically remove unwanted debris or residue. Movement may include a swirling pattern, circular pattern, or any other pattern that may serve useful in a cleaning cycle. This may save a user significant time and energy during a cleaning cycle. Once clean, a user may simply re-engage button 206 to turn off, or deactivate, motor 208.

Additionally, through button 210, a user may selectively choose between different spray types. For example, upon turning on faucet assembly 100, faucet assembly 100 may operate in a default manner in which nozzles 110 automatically spray a received fluid. However, through button 210, a user may turn off, or disengage, nozzles 110 while activating nozzles 108. However, in other examples, nozzles 108 may be the ones to operate in a default manner. While actuating mechanism 200 has been discussed with respect to buttons 210 and 206, it is to be understood that actuating mechanism 200 may include any number of buttons depending on the number and types of nozzles present. In other examples, actuating mechanism 200 may also include additional or different components, e.g., levers, switches, lights, etc., rather than, or in addition to, buttons 210 and 206.

Actuating mechanism 202 may also include function indicators 204 to assist a user in selecting an appropriate operating condition. For example, as shown, function indicators 204 may include a diagram in the form of a droplet or swirl to indicate a respective operating function. This may ensure that a user selects the appropriate function for a given cleaning cycle. Additionally, while function indicators 204 are shown in the form of diagrams, such indicators may also take the form of lights, grooves, ridges, or any other markings to aid in the selection of an operating condition.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a coupling mechanism in accordance with an example of the present disclosure. Coupling mechanism 300 may be used to connect a spray head, e.g., spray head 106, to a hose, e.g., hose 104. Through coupling mechanism 300, a spray head may receive electrical power and a flow of fluid through an outlet 306. In one example, coupling mechanism 300 includes electrical terminals 302 for supplying electrical power to components of the spray head, e.g., motor 208, or any other components. Additionally, coupling mechanism 300 may include a body 304 for connecting a hose and a spray head. Body 304 may include ridges, grooves 308 or any other features for aiding in the coupling process. In operation, body 304 may simultaneously couple to a hose and a spray head body through any number of mechanisms. In one example, body 304 may include protrusions configured to engage with corresponding openings of a spray head body. Alternatively, body 304 may couple to a hose and spray head through fastening members, adhesives, etc. or through other mechanisms, e.g., a snap-fit, twist lock, etc. In other examples, body 304 may also be manufactured as part of a hose or spray head.

FIG. 3B is a perspective view of electrical components that may be used to supply electricity to a spray head. As illustratively shown, electrical components 316 include wires 318, connected to an electrical source 330, wrapped in a sheath 322. In operation, wires may carry a current from electrical source 330 to a spray head, e.g., spray head 106 of FIG. 1A. In turn, the received electricity may drive electrical components within a spray head, e.g., motor 208. Electrical source 330 may include an internal or external battery or any other source capable of producing an electrical current.

Further, electrical components 316 may couple to a hose 324 through an outer sheath 320. However, in other examples, electrical components 316 may be separate and distinct from hose 324. Hose 324 may receive a fluid from a fluid source 332. Fluid source 332 may include an internal or external reservoir, storage unit, or any other source.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a cleaning module in accordance with an example of the present disclosure. Cleaning module 400 may be used in a cleaning operation to remove troublesome residue or debris. In operation, cleaning module 400 may operate manually, e.g., through a received user input, or automatically, e.g., through a motor. Cleaning module 400 includes a receiving body 404 with an inlet 402 for coupling to a connector, e.g., connector 112. In one example, body 404 and a connector are each made of magnetic materials to allow for the coupling between cleaning module 400 and a spray head. Such magnetic attraction may be provided through a ferromagnetic, e.g., iron, steel, nickel, cobalt, etc., composition of body 404 and connector. For example, body 404 and a connector may be made of ferromagnetic materials such that, upon placing body 404 in close proximity to the connector, a connection is automatically formed. This may allow for a quick and efficient coupling without necessitating significant user involvement. Moreover, such interaction may be beneficial in a variety of problematic situations, e.g., in instances where a user's hands are wet and unable to readily grip cleaning module 400 or spray head.

Additionally, receiving body 404 may be sized and shaped to further facilitate a connection between a cleaning module and a spray head. For example, body 404 may include any number of side walls 410 configured to align with a connector. While body 404 illustratively includes six side walls 410 for receiving a six-sided connector, body 404 may be sized and shaped in a variety of other ways as well.

Once coupled, cleaning module 400 may operate manually or automatically as noted above. For example, through an actuating mechanism, e.g., actuating mechanism 202, a motor, e.g., motor 208, may drive movement of cleaning module 400 through a connector, e.g., connector 112, allowing for the removal of residue and debris from an object. However, in other examples, a user may manually operate cleaning module 400 as well.

To facilitate debris and residue removal, module 400 includes projectiles 408. Projectiles 408 may take any size, shape, or configuration and, in one example, may include bristles as illustratively shown. However, while bristles may be desirable in one setting, they may be disadvantageous in another. As such, as shown in FIGS. 5A-5C, a user may connect many different types of modules to a spray head.

Additionally, projectiles 408 may be arranged in various manners. For example, in some instances, projectiles 408 may be situated around one or more openings (not shown) of a module to allow for a spraying operation through a cleaning module. In this example, openings may align and be appropriately sized with nozzles to allow for a spraying operation without interference from a coupled cleaning module. Alternatively, in other examples, nozzles of a spray head and openings may be positioned to disperse fluid directly onto projectiles 408. In this example, a spraying operation may moisten projectiles 408 prior to or during a cleaning operation. This may prove particularly useful if projectiles 408 come pre-treated with a cleaning agent or solution that activates upon receiving a fluid.

FIGS. 5A-5C are cleaning modules that may be used in accordance with the present disclosure. As shown, faucet assembly 500 may couple to a variety of cleaning modules 504, 506, and 510. Each cleaning module 504, 506, and 510 has its own unique form of projectiles 502, 508, and 514. For example, projectiles 502 include flexible bristles capable of gentling removing grease from pots, dishes, etc. Alternatively, projectiles 508 may take the form of a silicone brush for food or other particulate removal on delicate or fragile objects. Such form may also ensure that bacteria is not displaced on the object. Lastly, projectiles 506 may also take the form of bristles 510 situated in a steeped manner along a body 516. In this example, body 516 may further include water jets 512 for carrying out a spraying operation through cleaning module 510. This arrangement may prove especially desirable for cleaning hard to reach areas in bottles, kettles, and cups. While three types of projectiles are shown, any number of modules may be used in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a side sprayer with steam functionality in accordance with an example of the present disclosure. Side sprayer 600 illustratively includes a spray head 608 capable of spraying steam through an outlet 606. Spray head 608 includes components 602 which, in one example, may include circuitry, a heater, motor, or any other components necessary to produce steam. Steam production may prove useful for achieving a deep sterilization of objects before or after a wash cycle. Additionally, in some examples, steam may be produced through an opening of a cleaning module 604 coupled to spray head 608. However, it is to be understood that steam may be produced and expelled with or without a cleaning module 604 coupled to spray head 608.

The aforementioned examples are not intended to limit the scope or bounds of the present disclosure. Additional examples may be included that combine the functionality or configurations of the discussed examples.

Claims

1. A faucet assembly, comprising: a spray head having a first plurality of nozzles and a second plurality of nozzles, the first plurality of nozzles configured to perform a first fluid dispersal operation, the second plurality of nozzles configured to perform a second fluid dispersal operation;a hose coupled to the spray head and configured to deliver fluid to the spray head, wherein the spray head and the hose are configured to extend outward and retract inward;a cleaning module configured to remove debris and particulates from kitchenware;a connector coupled to the spray head and configured to removably couple the spray head to the cleaning module; andan actuating mechanism configured to operate the first plurality of nozzles and the second plurality of nozzles, the actuating mechanism comprising a motor configured to drive movement of the cleaning module through the connector.

2. The faucet assembly of claim 1, further comprising a coupling mechanism positioned between the spray head and the hose, wherein the spray head is configured to receive fluid through the coupling mechanism from the hose.

3. The faucet assembly of claim 2, wherein the coupling mechanism comprises one or more electrical terminals for supplying electricity to the spray head and the actuating mechanism.

4. The faucet assembly of claim 1, wherein the first fluid dispersal operation and the second fluid dispersal operation comprise one of an aerated stream, a laminar stream, and a spray stream.

5. The faucet assembly of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of nozzles are positioned proximal an outer circumference of the spray head and the second plurality of nozzles are positioned distal the outer circumference of the spray head.

6. The faucet assembly of claim 1, wherein the connector is configured to magnetically couple the spray head to the cleaning module.

7. The faucet assembly of claim 1, wherein the cleaning module comprises a receiving body including an inlet for coupling the receiving body to the connector, the cleaning module further comprising one or more projectiles to facilitate debris and particulate removal from kitchenware.

8. The faucet assembly of claim 7, wherein the one or more projectiles are positioned proximate one or more openings in the receiving body, the receiving body comprising one or more fluid jets configured to disperse fluid through the one or more openings and onto the one or more projectiles during operation of the cleaning module.

9. The faucet assembly of claim 1, wherein the actuating mechanism comprises at least one controller for operating at least one of the first plurality of nozzles, the second plurality of nozzles, and the motor.

10. The faucet assembly of claim 1, wherein the spray head further comprises a side sprayer configured to disperse steam through an outlet defined in the spray head.

11. A faucet assembly, comprising: a spray head configured to dispense fluid therefrom, the spray head comprising a plurality of nozzles configured to alternate between a first fluid dispensing operation and a second fluid dispensing operation using a nozzle controller;a cleaning module removably coupled to the spray head; andan actuating mechanism configured to drive movement of the cleaning module using a motor,wherein the spray head is configured to extend outward and retract inward, wherein the cleaning module is driven by the motor.

12. The faucet assembly of claim 11, wherein the cleaning module comprises a receiving body coupled to the spray head, the cleaning module further comprising one or more projectiles to facilitate debris and particulate removal from kitchenware.

13. The faucet assembly of claim 12, wherein the one or more projectiles are positioned proximate one or more openings in the receiving body, the receiving body comprising one or more fluid jets configured to disperse fluid through the one or more openings and onto the one or more projectiles during operation of the cleaning module.

14. The faucet assembly of claim 11, further comprising a coupling mechanism positioned between the spray head and the hose, wherein the spray head is configured to receive fluid through the coupling mechanism and the hose, wherein the coupling mechanism comprises one or more electrical terminals for supplying electricity to the spray head and the actuating mechanism.

15. The faucet assembly of claim 11, wherein the first fluid dispensing operation and the second fluid dispensing operation comprise one of an aerated stream, a laminar stream, and a spray stream.

16. The faucet assembly of claim 11, further comprising a motor controller for operating the motor and driving movement of the cleaning module.

17. The faucet assembly of claim 11, wherein the nozzle controller comprises at least one nozzle button configured to alternate the plurality of nozzles between the first fluid dispensing operation and the second fluid dispensing operation.

18. A faucet assembly, comprising: a spray head configured to dispense therefrom, the spray head comprising a plurality of nozzles configured to alternate between a first fluid dispensing operation and a second fluid dispensing operation using a nozzle controller; anda coupling mechanism positioned between the spray head and the hose, the coupling mechanism comprising one or more electrical terminals for supplying electricity to the spray head,wherein the spray head further comprises a side sprayer configured to dispense steam through an outlet defined in the spray head.

19. The faucet assembly of claim 18, further comprising a cleaning module and an actuating mechanism, the cleaning module being magnetically coupled to the spray head, the actuating mechanism being configured to drive movement of the cleaning module using a motor, wherein the cleaning module defines an opening that steam from the side sprayer is dispersed through.

20. The faucet assembly of claim 18, further comprising a cleaning module and an actuating mechanism, the cleaning module being magnetically coupled to the spray head, the actuating mechanism being configured to drive movement of the cleaning module using a motor, wherein the cleaning module comprises one or more projectiles configured to remove debris and particulates from kitchenware when the cleaning module is driven by the motor.