Patent Application
20250171990
The present disclosure generally relates to faucet assemblies. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to faucet assemblies comprising easy-to-reach temperature control mechanisms.
Conventional faucets are designed to provide a continuous stream of water at a range of temperatures. Typically, a user of a conventional faucet may choose their desired water temperature using the same control that they use to turn the faucet on. In conventional faucets, this control is often a handle or a knob located near the base of the faucet body. In addition to allowing users to control the water temperature, conventional faucets often allow users to control or adjust water flow properties such as water pressure and spray pattern to a certain extent.
As mentioned above, a conventional faucet generally includes one or more controls (often handles or knobs) located near the base of the faucet body which are configured to both initiate the flow of water through the faucet and to control the temperature of the water. While conventional faucets do provide faucet users with some level of control over the water temperature, that control is often imprecise. For example, in many situations, a faucet user may wish to only marginally change the water temperature, but this may not be possible using an inaccurate control like a knob. Furthermore, since conventional faucet controls are generally located near the base of the faucet body, it is often inconvenient to adjust the water temperature while the faucet is on because adjusting the temperature would require the faucet user to reach through or around the stream of water being deposited from the faucet. There exists a need for a faucet assembly which provides a mechanism for faucet users to easily and precisely control water temperature.
Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a faucet assembly comprising a temperature control positioned near the faucet spray head. This position is easily accessible by faucet users and does not require faucet users to reach through or around a stream of water in order to control the temperature. The temperature control may be configured to receive a desired water temperature from a faucet user and, in turn, to transmit a signal to a mixing valve to control the water temperature. In some embodiments, the temperature control may include one or more indicator lights which are configured to provide the faucet user with a visual indication of a current water temperature or user's desired water temperature. This visual indication may provide the user with more accurate knowledge of the water temperature.
In some embodiments, the temperature control may be a linear assembly or a circular assembly of capacitive touch sensors disposed on the faucet body. Users may control the water temperature by swiping and/or pressing one or more of the capacitive touch sensors. The temperature control may control the water temperature based on which capacitive touch sensors receive user input.
In some embodiments, the temperature control may be an annular control comprising a magnetic temperature adjustment ring which is free to rotate about the faucet body. The annular control may be configured to detect a position of the temperature adjustment ring by measuring magnetic fields emitted by adjustment ring. The annular control may then control the water temperature based on the position of the adjustment ring.
In some embodiments, provided is a faucet assembly comprising: a faucet body comprising: a fluid inlet configured to fluidly connect to a mixing valve of a fluid source and receive fluid from the fluid source by way of the mixing valve; a fluid flow path within the faucet body fluidly connected to the fluid inlet and configured to receive fluid from the fluid inlet; and a spray head comprising one or more fluid outlets fluidly connected to the fluid flow path and configured to dispense fluid out of the faucet body; and a temperature control system positioned on the faucet body proximate to the spray head, the temperature control system comprising: a printed circuit board; one or more controls disposed on the printed circuit board and configured to receive a user input comprising a user's desired fluid temperature; one or more lights disposed on the printed circuit board and configured to emit light based on the user input; and one or more circuit traces disposed on the printed circuit board and configured to electronically connect to the mixing valve, the one or more controls, and the one or more lights; wherein, upon receiving the user input, the one or more controls are configured to transmit a signal to the mixing valve via the one or more circuit traces to cause the mixing valve to control a temperature of the fluid based on the user's desired fluid temperature.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the one or more controls of the temperature control system comprise one or more capacitive touch sensors.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the one or more controls of the temperature control system comprise one or more pressure sensors.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the one or more controls of the temperature control system comprise one or more push buttons.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the one or more controls of the temperature control system are arranged in a linear pattern.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the one or more controls of the temperature control system are arranged in a circular pattern.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the faucet assembly is configured to provide a plurality of spray modes.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the faucet body further comprises a spray mode control comprising one or more spray mode regions, wherein each spray mode region is associated with a spray mode of the plurality of spray modes, and wherein each spray mode region is configured to: receive a spray mode input from the user; and control a flow of fluid through the one or more fluid outlets in order to initiate the spray mode associated with the spray mode region.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the spray mode control comprises at least four spray mode regions.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the spray mode control is a push button.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the spray mode control is a capacitive touch sensor.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the spray mode control is a pressure sensor.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the faucet body further comprises a plurality of spray mode controls, wherein each of the plurality of spray mode controls is associated with a spray mode of the plurality of spray modes, and wherein each of the plurality of spray mode controls is configured to: receive a spray mode input from the user; and control a flow of fluid through the one or more fluid outlets in order to initiate the spray mode associated spray mode control.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the plurality of spray mode controls comprises at least four spray mode controls.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the plurality of spray mode controls comprises at least one push button.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the plurality of spray mode controls comprises at least one capacitive touch sensor.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the plurality of spray mode controls comprises at least one pressure sensor.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the spray head is configured to pull away from the spout.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the one or more lights are configured to emit light in a first wavelength range if the user's desired fluid temperature is within a first temperature range and are configured to emit light in a second wavelength range if the user's desired fluid temperature is within a second temperature range.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the first wavelength range is 500-750 nm.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the second wavelength range is 350-500 nm.
In some embodiments, a faucet assembly is provided, the faucet assembly comprising: a faucet body comprising: a fluid inlet configured to fluidly connect to a mixing valve of a fluid source and receive fluid from the fluid source by way of the mixing valve; a fluid flow path within the faucet body fluidly connected to the fluid inlet and configured to receive fluid from the fluid inlet; and a spray head comprising one or more fluid outlets fluidly connected to the fluid flow path and configured to dispense fluid out of the faucet body; and a temperature control system positioned on the faucet body proximate to the spray head, the temperature control system comprising: a printed circuit board; a magnetic ring configured to be rotated about the faucet body by a user; a magnetic ring position sensor configured to detect a rotation of the magnetic ring and determine a user's desired fluid temperature based on the detected rotation; one or more lights disposed on the printed circuit board and configured to emit light based on the detected rotation of the magnetic ring; and one or more circuit traces disposed on the printed circuit board and configured to electronically connect to the mixing valve, the magnetic ring position sensor, and the one or more lights; wherein, upon detecting the rotation of the magnetic ring, the magnetic ring position sensor is configured to transmit a signal to the mixing valve via the one or more circuit traces to cause the mixing valve to control a temperature of the fluid based on the user's desired fluid temperature.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the faucet assembly is configured to provide a plurality of spray modes.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the faucet body further comprises a spray mode control comprising one or more spray mode regions, wherein each spray mode region is associated with a spray mode of the plurality of spray modes, and wherein each spray mode region is configured to: receive a spray mode input from the user; and control a flow of fluid through the one or more fluid outlets in order to initiate the spray mode associated with the spray mode region.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the spray mode control comprises at least four spray mode regions.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the spray mode control is a push button.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the spray mode control is a capacitive touch sensor.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the spray mode control is a pressure sensor.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the faucet body further comprises a plurality of spray mode controls, wherein each of the plurality of spray mode controls is associated with a spray mode of the plurality of spray modes, and wherein each of the plurality of spray mode controls is configured to: receive a spray mode input from the user; and control a flow of fluid through the one or more fluid outlets in order to initiate the spray mode associated spray mode control.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the plurality of spray mode controls comprises at least four spray mode controls.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the plurality of spray mode controls comprises at least one push button.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the plurality of spray mode controls comprises at least one capacitive touch sensor.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the plurality of spray mode controls comprises at least one pressure sensor.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the spray head is configured to pull away from the spout.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the one or more lights are configured to emit light in a first wavelength range if the user's desired fluid temperature is within a first temperature range and are configured to emit light in a second wavelength range if the user's desired fluid temperature is within a second temperature range.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the first wavelength range is 500-750 nm.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the second wavelength range is 350-500 nm.
In some embodiments, provided is a faucet assembly configured to provide a plurality of spray modes, the faucet assembly comprising: a faucet body comprising: a fluid inlet configured to fluidly connect to a mixing valve of a fluid source and receive fluid from the fluid source by way of the mixing valve; a fluid flow path within the faucet body fluidly connected to the fluid inlet and configured to receive fluid from the fluid inlet; and a spray head comprising one or more fluid outlets fluidly connected to the fluid flow path and configured to dispense fluid out of the faucet body; and a spray mode control system configured to receive a user input indicating a desired spray mode of the plurality of spray modes; wherein, upon receiving the user input indicating the desired spray mode, the spray mode control system is configured to control a flow of fluid through the one or more fluid outlets in order to initiate the user's desired spray mode.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the spray mode control system comprises a spray mode control comprising one or more spray mode regions, wherein each spray mode region is associated with a spray mode of the plurality of spray modes, and wherein each spray mode region is configured to: receive a spray mode input from the user; and control a flow of fluid through the one or more fluid outlets in order to initiate the spray mode associated with the spray mode region.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the spray mode control comprises at least four spray mode regions.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the spray mode control is a push button.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the spray mode control is a capacitive touch sensor.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the spray mode control is a pressure sensor.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the spray mode control system comprises a plurality of spray mode controls, wherein each of the plurality of spray mode controls is associated with a spray mode of the plurality of spray modes, and wherein each of the plurality of spray mode controls is configured to: receive a spray mode input from the user; and control a flow of fluid through the one or more fluid outlets in order to initiate the spray mode associated spray mode control.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the plurality of spray mode controls comprises at least four spray mode controls.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the plurality of spray mode controls comprises at least one push button.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the plurality of spray mode controls comprises at least one capacitive touch sensor.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the plurality of spray mode controls comprises at least one pressure sensor.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the faucet body further comprises a temperature control system positioned on the faucet body proximate to the spray head, the temperature control system comprising: a printed circuit board; one or more controls disposed on the printed circuit board and configured to receive a user input comprising a user's desired fluid temperature; one or more lights disposed on the printed circuit board and configured to emit light based on the user input; and one or more circuit traces disposed on the printed circuit board and configured to electronically connect to the mixing valve, the one or more controls, and the one or more lights; wherein, upon receiving the user input, the one or more controls are configured to transmit a signal to the mixing valve via the one or more circuit traces to cause the mixing valve to control a temperature of the fluid based on the user's desired fluid temperature.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the one or more controls of the temperature control system comprise one or more pressure sensors.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the one or more controls of the temperature control system comprise one or more push buttons.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the one or more controls of the temperature control system are arranged in a linear pattern.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the one or more controls of the temperature control system are arranged in a circular pattern.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the faucet body further comprises a temperature control system positioned on the faucet body proximate to the spray head, the temperature control system comprising: a printed circuit board; a magnetic ring configured to be rotated about the faucet body by a user; a magnetic ring position sensor configured to detect a rotation of the magnetic ring and determine a user's desired fluid temperature based on the detected rotation; one or more lights disposed on the printed circuit board and configured to emit light based on the detected rotation of the magnetic ring; and one or more circuit traces disposed on the printed circuit board and configured to electronically connect to the mixing valve, the magnetic ring position sensor, and the one or more lights; wherein, upon detecting the rotation of the magnetic ring, the magnetic ring position sensor is configured to transmit a signal to the mixing valve via the one or more circuit traces to cause the mixing valve to control a temperature of the fluid based on the user's desired fluid temperature.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the spray head is configured to pull away from the spout.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the one or more lights are configured to emit light in a first wavelength range if the user's desired fluid temperature is within a first temperature range and are configured to emit light in a second wavelength range if the user's desired fluid temperature is within a second temperature range.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the first wavelength range is 500-750 nm.
In some embodiments of the faucet assembly, the second wavelength range is 350-500 nm.
The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings.
In the following description of the disclosure and embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings in which are shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments that can be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments and examples can be practiced, and changes can be made, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
As discussed above, it is generally difficult to precisely control the water temperature of water deposited by a conventional faucet because the temperature controls of conventional faucets typically comprise one or more knobs or handles located near the base of the faucet. In addition, it is often inconvenient to adjust the water temperature while the faucet is on because adjusting the temperature would require the faucet user to reach through or around the stream of water being deposited from the faucet. As such, the present disclosure provides a faucet assembly comprising an easily accessible temperature control positioned near the faucet spray head.
In some embodiments, faucet handle 108 may be associated with a manual valve. Faucet handle 108 may be configured to cause water to flow from the fluid source and into faucet assembly 100 via water inlet 110. In some embodiments, faucet handle 108 may be configured to control a flow rate of water transmitted into the water receptacle. In some embodiments, faucet assembly 100 may comprise one or more controls in spray head 104 configured to control the water flow. In some embodiments, spray head 104 may comprise one or more controls configured to turn the faucet on/off, control the flow rate of water transmitted into the water receptacle, or to control a spray mode of water transmitted into the water receptacle.
Temperature adjustment mechanism 106 may be configured to receive a user input providing a desired water temperature. After receiving the user input providing the desired water temperature, temperature adjustment mechanism 106 may be configured to increase or decrease the temperature of water flowing through faucet body 102 and spray head 104. In some embodiments, temperature adjustment mechanism 106 may be configured to control the temperature of water flowing through faucet body 102 and spray head 104 by controlling a mixing valve. Temperature adjustment mechanism 106 may be configured to adjust the water temperature in real time as user inputs providing desired water temperatures are received.
In some embodiments, the mixing valve controlled by temperature adjustment mechanism 106 may be an electromechanical valve (e.g., a solenoid valve). In some embodiments, temperature adjustment mechanism 106 may be configured to control a first electromechanical valve for hot water and a second electromechanical valve for cold water. The first electromechanical valve and the second electromechanical valve may lead to a mixing chamber. In some embodiments, the mixing valve may be located upstream of a manual valve associated with faucet handle 108. In some embodiments, the mixing valve may be located upstream of a manual valve associated with faucet handle 108 and an electromechanical valve configured to control water flow rate. In some embodiments, the mixing valve may be located upstream of an electromechanical flow control valve. Alternative valve arrangements (possibly comprising one or more additional valves) may be conceivable.
In some embodiments, temperature adjustment mechanism 106 may be positioned between faucet body 102 and spray head 104. This may provide a faucet user with easy access to temperature adjustment mechanism 106 while the faucet user is using faucet assembly 100.
In some embodiments, mixing valve 114 may be an electromechanical (e.g., solenoid) valve.
In some embodiments, temperature adjustment mechanism 106 may receive a user input from a faucet user. The user input may provide a desired water temperature. After receiving the user input, temperature adjustment mechanism 106 may be configured to transmit an input signal 118 to mixing valve control 112. Input signal 118 may be an electronic signal which may be transmitted wirelessly or via a wired connection between temperature adjustment mechanism 106 and mixing valve control 112.
After receiving input signal 118 from temperature adjustment mechanism 106, mixing valve control 112 may be configured to transmit a control signal 120 to mixing valve 114. Control signal 120 may comprise instructions configured to cause mixing valve to transmit water within a range of the faucet user's desired water temperature. In some embodiments, control signal 120 may be an electronic signal which may be transmitted wirelessly or via a wired connection between mixing valve control 112 and mixing valve 114.
Upon receiving control signal 120, mixing valve 114 may be configured to cause fluid source 116 to transmit water 122 to mixing valve 114. Water 122 may comprise hot water and cold water which may be separately transmitted to mixing valve 114. Mixing valve 114 may house a mixing chamber configured to allow the received hot water and the received cold water to mix. In some embodiments, mixing valve 114 may comprise a temperature sensor configured to track the temperature of water in the mixing chamber. In some embodiments, mixing valve 114 may be configured to adjust the ratio of hot water to cold water received from fluid source 116 in order to create water at the user's desired temperature.
After water 122 has been received and mixed within mixing valve 114, mixing valve 114 may be configured to transmit mixed water 124 to water inlet 110 of faucet 100. Water inlet 110 may be configured to transmit water 124 to spray head 104 via a fluid connection (e.g., faucet body 102 shown in
Temperature adjustment mechanism 106 shown in
In some embodiments, temperature control assembly 206 may include features of temperature control mechanism 106 as shown in
Temperature control assembly 206 may comprise one or more controls that are arranged in a line that follows the path from faucet body 202 to spray head 204 and are configured to receive input from a faucet user. In some embodiments, the one or more controls may be one or more capacitive touch sensors, one or more pressure sensors, one or more push buttons, a sliding switch, or a lever. In some embodiments, the faucet user may indicate a desired water temperature by touching and/or pressing a certain portion of temperature control mechanism 206. For example, temperature control assembly 206 may be configured to cause hot water to be deposited from spray head 204 when the faucet user provides input around a top portion of temperature control assembly 206 (e.g., a portion of temperature control assembly 206 that is farthest from spray head 204) and may be configured to cause cold water to be deposited from spray head 204 when the faucet user provides input around a bottom portion of temperature control assembly 206 (e.g., a portion of temperature control assembly that is closest to spray head 204). In some embodiments, the faucet user may lower or increase a current water temperature by swiping one or more fingers along one or more controls of temperature control assembly 206.
Temperature control assembly 206 may be configured to visually indicate the temperature of water currently being deposited from spray head 204 and/or to visually indicate a desired water temperature that the user has selected.
As shown in
In some embodiments, faucet 300 may be configured to provide a plurality of spray modes. One or more of the plurality of spray modes may be configured to provide an aerated spray, a high pressure or jet spray, a low pressure spray, or a shower spray. Faucet 300 may comprise one or more spray mode controls 310 configured to allow the faucet user to selectively switch between the plurality of spray modes. In some embodiments, spray mode controls 310 may be positioned on spray head 304. Spray mode controls 310 may comprise one or more push buttons, pressure sensors, capacitive touch sensors, or switches.
In some embodiments, faucet body 402 may include features of faucet body 302 as shown in
Lens 404 may be configured to be positioned at a location that is flush with the edges of an opening in faucet body 402. Lens 404 may comprise plastic and/or glass. In some embodiments, lens 404 may be greater than or equal to about 0.01. about 0.1, about 0.3, about 0.5, about 0.7, about 0.9, about 1.1, about 1.5, or about 2 cm thick at its point of maximum thickness. In some embodiments, lens 404 may be less than or equal to about 0.01. about 0.1, about 0.3, about 0.5, about 0.7, about 0.9, about 1.1, about 1.5, or about 2 cm thick at its point of maximum thickness. In some embodiments, lens 404 may be between about 0-0.1, about 0.1-0.3, about 0.3-0.5, about 0.5-0.7, about 0.7-0.9, about 0.9-1.1, about 1.1-1.5, about 1.5-1.7, or about 1.7-2 cm thick at its point of maximum thickness.
In some embodiments, temperature control assembly 400 may comprise a gap 416 between an inner surface of lens 404 and printed circuit board 412. This gap may be filled with an adhesive in order to protect printed circuit board 412 from water damage. In some embodiments, the adhesive may comprise thermoset high performance economical adhesives, epoxies, acrylics, polyurethanes, polyesters, and/or silicone. In some embodiments, thermoset adhesives may be applied via direct injection into gap 416. In some embodiments, thermoset adhesives may be pre-impregnated forms supplied from rolls or tapes which may be cut into an appropriate shape and then cured with heat, microwaves, or other energy supply methods. Once cured, the adhesives may provide permanent structure gap filling and sealing connection.
In some embodiments, capacitive touch sensors 408 and lights 410 may be configured to receive energy from a power source. The power source may comprise one or more batteries. In some embodiments, one or more circuit traces 414 and/or one or more wires may be configured to transmit energy from the power source to capacitive touch sensors 408 and lights 410.
A capacitive touch sensor of capacitive touch sensors 408 may be configured to receive user input from a faucet user when the faucet user touches a portion of lens 404 directly above the capacitive touch sensor. In some embodiments, when a capacitive touch sensor of capacitive touch sensors 408 receives user input from a faucet user, a signal may be transmitted to lights 410. The signal may be transmitted via one or more circuit traces 414 and may cause lights 410 to turn on. In some embodiments, lens 404 may be configured to direct light from lights 410 so that the light may be made visible to the faucet user.
Capacitive touch sensors 408 may be arranged in a line along faucet body 402. In some embodiments, the line of capacitive touch sensors 408 may follow a curve of faucet body 402 from a water inlet to a spray head. In some embodiments, a faucet user may adjust a water temperature by touching specific portions of lens 404, thereby providing user input to specific capacitive touch sensors 408. In some embodiments, temperature control assembly 400 may comprise at least about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 10, about 20, or about 50 capacitive touch sensors 408. In some embodiments, temperature control assembly 400 may comprise less than or equal to about 100, about 75, about 50, about 30, about 20, about 15, about 10, or about 5 capacitive touch sensors 408. In some embodiments, temperature control assembly 400 may comprise between about 1-5, about 5-10, about 10-20, or about 20-50 capacitive touch sensors 408.
In some embodiments, temperature control assembly 400 may comprise one or more lights 410 on either side of each capacitive touch sensor 408. Lights 410 may comprise one or more LEDs soldered to printed circuit board 412. In some embodiments, lights 410 may be configured to emit light of any wavelength in the visible range of the electromagnetic spectrum. In some embodiments, one or more lights of lights 410 may be configured to emit light of different wavelengths, possibly simultaneously. In some embodiments, each light of lights 410 may be configured to emit the same wavelength of light at the same time. In some embodiments, the wavelength of light emitted by one or more lights of lights 410 may change as the faucet user provides input to capacitive touch sensors 408 indicating that they would like to increase or decrease their desired water temperature.
In some embodiments, the color of light emitted by lights 410 may change based on user input received by capacitive touch sensors 408. For example, if the faucet user indicates, using one or more sensors of capacitive touch sensors 408, that they wish their faucet to deposit hot water, lights 410 may be configured to emit light at a hot water indicator wavelength. In some embodiments, a hot water indicator wavelength may be less than or equal to about 750, about 625, about 590, or about 565 nm. In some embodiments, a hot water indicator wavelength may be greater than or equal to about 565, about 590, about 625, or about 750 nm. In some embodiments, a hot water indicator wavelength may be between about 500-565, about 565-590, about 590-625, or about 625-750 nm. Likewise, if the faucet user indicates, using one or more sensors of capacitive touch sensors 408, that they wish their faucet to deposit cold water, lights 410 may be configured to emit light at a cold water indicator wavelength. In some embodiments, a cold water indicator wavelength may be less than or equal to about 500, about 485, about 450, or about 380 nm. In some embodiments, a cold water indicator wavelength may be greater than or equal to about 380, about 450, about 485, or about 500 nm. In some embodiments, a cold water indicator wavelength may be between about 380-450, about 450-485, about 485-500, or about 500-565 nm.
As explained above, temperature control assembly 400 may be configured to be disposed inside faucet body 402. Lens 404 may fill a gap in faucet body 402 and face outward so that the faucet user may touch lens 404 and thus provide user input to capacitive touch sensors 408. Faucet body 402 have any shape, size, or style. In particular, a cross section of faucet body 402 may be of any shape and may have any cross-sectional area. In some embodiments, support 406 and printed circuit board 412 may be configured to bend and/or stretch in two or more directions in order to allow temperature control assembly 400 to be disposed inside faucet body 400 as described. Support 406 may comprise a thermoplastic (e.g., polypropylene or polyoxymethylene). The flexibility of support 406 and printed circuit board 412 may make temperature control assembly 400 amenable to mass manufacturing since it may be bent and/or stretched to fit inside a plurality of different faucet bodies without needing to be remade or customized.
In some embodiments, a lens 706 may be affixed to flexible support 704 such that, when flexible support is disposed against the inner surface of faucet body 702, lens 706 may slide into an opening 718 in faucet body 702. In some embodiments, lens 706 may comprise features of lens 404 shown in
In some embodiments, a printed circuit board 712 may be affixed to flexible support 704. In some embodiments, printed circuit board 712 may comprise features of printed circuit board 412 shown in
In some embodiments, flexible support 804 may comprise features of flexible support 704 shown in
In some embodiments, temperature control assembly 906 may include features of temperature control mechanism 106 as shown in
Temperature control assembly 906 may comprise one or more ring controls that wrap around faucet body 902. The one or more ring controls may be configured to rotate freely around faucet body 902. In some embodiments, a faucet user may provide user input indicating a desired water temperature by rotating the one or more ring controls around faucet body 902. In some embodiments, temperature control assembly 906 may be configured to visually indicate the temperature of water currently being deposited from spray head 904 and/or to visually indicate a desired water temperature that the user has selected.
As shown in
In some embodiments, faucet 1000 may be configured to provide a plurality of spray modes. One or more of the plurality of spray modes may be configured to provide an aerated spray, a high pressure or jet spray, a low pressure spray, or a shower spray. Faucet 1000 may comprise one or more spray mode controls 1010 configured to allow the faucet user to selectively switch between the plurality of spray modes. In some embodiments, spray mode controls 1010 may be positioned on spray head 1004. Spray mode controls 1010 may comprise one or more push buttons, pressure sensors, capacitive touch sensors, or switches.
In some embodiments, faucet 1100 may comprise one or more water flow controls 1110. One or more water flow controls 1100 may be configured to control one or more valves in order to initiate and/or halt a flow of water from a fluid source to faucet 1100. One or more water flow controls 1100 may be configured to cause faucet 1100 to deposit filtered water. Water flow controls 1100 may be positioned on spray head 1104.
Faucet 1100 may be configured to provide a plurality of spray modes. One or more of the plurality of spray modes may be configured to provide an aerated spray, a high pressure or jet spray, a low pressure spray, or a shower spray. Faucet 1100 may comprise one or more spray mode controls 1108 configured to allow the faucet user to selectively switch between the plurality of spray modes. In some embodiments, spray mode controls 1108 may be positioned on spray head 1004. Spray mode controls 1108 may comprise one or more push buttons, pressure sensors, capacitive touch sensors, or switches.
In some embodiments, a portion of the plurality of water outlets 1112 may be arranged in a circular pattern or in two or more concentric circular patterns. In some embodiments, spray head 1104 may comprise greater than or equal to about 1, about 2, about 5, about 10, about 15, about 25, or about 50 water outlets 1112. In some embodiments, spray head 1104 may comprise less than or equal to about 100, about 50, about 25, about 15, or about 10 water outlets 1112. In some embodiments, spray head 1104 may comprise between about 1-5, about 1-10, about 10-15, about 15-25, about 25-50, or about 50-100 water outlets 1112.
In some embodiments, temperature control assembly 1106 may be configured to rotate about spray head 1104. A faucet user may provide user input related to a desired water temperature by rotating temperature control assembly 1106. Rotation of temperature control assembly 1106 may cause temperature control assembly 1106 to transmit one or more signals to a mixing valve in order to control the water temperature. In some embodiments, rotation of temperature control assembly 1106 in a first direction may cause the water temperature to increase, while rotation of temperature control assembly 1106 in a second direction that is opposite the first direction may cause the water temperature to decrease. For example, in some embodiments, clockwise rotation of temperature control assembly 1106 may cause the water temperature to increase while counterclockwise rotation of temperature control assembly 1106 may cause the water temperature to decrease. In some embodiments, rotating temperature control assembly 1106 by one degree may cause the water temperature to change (i.e., increase or decrease) by less than or equal to about 0.1, about 1, about 2, about 5, about 10, about 15, or about 20° F. In some embodiments, rotating temperature control assembly 1106 by one degree may cause the water temperature to change (i.e., increase or decrease) by greater than or equal to about 0.01, about 0.1, about 1, about 2, about 5, about 10, about 15, or about 20° F. In some embodiments, temperature control assembly 1106 may include features of temperature control assembly 1006 shown in
In some embodiments, faucet 1200 may comprise a plurality of lights 1210 soldered to a printed circuit board 1208. In some embodiments, lights 1208 may be arranged in a linear pattern proximal to temperature adjustment ring 1206. In some embodiments, faucet 1200 may comprise greater than or equal to about 1, about 5, about 10, about 15, or about 20 lights 1210. In some embodiments, faucet 1200 may comprise less than or equal to about 50, about 30, about 20, about 15, about 10, or about 5 lights 1210. In some embodiments, faucet 1200 may comprise between about 1-5, about 5-10, about 10-15, about 15-20, about 20-25, or about 25-30 lights 1210. Lights 1210 may be configured to transmit visual signals to a faucet user based on a current water temperature and/or a user input provided by the faucet user indicating a desired water temperature. A greater number of lights 1210 may increase the complexity and precision of signals that faucet 1200 can provide to the faucet user.
In some embodiments, faucet 1200 may comprise a lens 1212 affixed atop printed circuit board 1208. Lens 1212 may comprise plastic and/or glass. In some embodiments, lens 1212 may be greater than or equal to about 0.01. about 0.1, about 0.3, about 0.5, about 0.7, about 0.9, about 1.1, about 1.5, or about 2 cm thick at its point of maximum thickness. In some embodiments, lens 1212 may be less than or equal to about 0.01. about 0.1, about 0.3, about 0.5, about 0.7, about 0.9, about 1.1, about 1.5, or about 2 cm thick at its point of maximum thickness. In some embodiments, lens 1212 may be between about 0-0.1, about 0.1-0.3, about 0.3-0.5, about 0.5-0.7, about 0.7-0.9, about 0.9-1.1, about 1.1-1.5, about 1.5-1.7, or about 1.7-2 cm thick at its point of maximum thickness.
In some embodiments, lights 1210 may be configured to emit light of any wavelength in the visible range of the electromagnetic spectrum. In some embodiments, one or more lights of lights 1210 may be configured to emit light of different wavelengths, possibly simultaneously. In some embodiments, each light of lights 1210 may be configured to emit the same wavelength of light at the same time. In some embodiments, the wavelength of light emitted by one or more lights of lights 1210 may change as the faucet user rotates temperature adjustment ring 1206 to indicate that they would like to increase or decrease their desired water temperature. In some embodiments, the wavelength of light emitted by lights 1210 may increase (e.g., the color of emitted light may shift toward an orange or a red color) as temperature adjustment ring 1206 is rotated in a first direction. In some embodiments, the wavelength of light emitted by lights 1210 may decrease (e.g., the color of emitted light may shift toward a blue or a violet color) as temperature adjustment ring 1206 is rotated in a second direction.
In some embodiments, the color of light emitted by lights 1210 may change based on user input received by temperature adjustment ring 1206. For example, if the faucet user indicates, using temperature adjustment ring 1206, that they wish faucet 1200 to deposit hot water, lights 1210 may be configured to emit light at a hot water indicator wavelength. In some embodiments, a hot water indicator wavelength may be less than or equal to about 750, about 625, about 590, or about 565 nm. In some embodiments, a hot water indicator wavelength may be greater than or equal to about 565, about 590, about 625, or about 750 nm. In some embodiments, a hot water indicator wavelength may be between about 500-565, about 565-590, about 590-625, or about 625-750 nm. Likewise, if the faucet user indicates, using temperature adjustment ring 1206, that they wish faucet 1200 to deposit cold water, lights 1210 may be configured to emit light at a cold water indicator wavelength. In some embodiments, a cold water indicator wavelength may be less than or equal to about 500, about 485, about 450, or about 380 nm. In some embodiments, a cold water indicator wavelength may be greater than or equal to about 380, about 450, about 485, or about 500 nm. In some embodiments, a cold water indicator wavelength may be between about 380-450, about 450-485, about 485-500, or about 500-565 nm.
In some embodiments, 1300 may comprise one or more lights 1310 soldered to a printed circuit board 1316. As shown, printed circuit board 1316 may be configured to mold to a boundary of faucet body 1302, i.e., printed circuit board 1316 may be flexible and configured to wrap around faucet body 1302. In some embodiments, lights 1310 may include features of lights 1210 shown in
Temperature adjustment ring 1306 may be configured to control the water temperature by harnessing the Hall effect. Specifically, as shown in
In some embodiments, spray head 1404 may be a pull-down spray head or a pull-out spray head configured to detach from faucet body 1402. Faucet 1400 may comprise a spray head nesting engagement 1408 positioned within faucet body 1402. Spray head nesting engagement 1408 may be configured to hold spray head 1404 when spray head 1404 is not pulled down or pulled out. In some embodiments, temperature adjustment ring 1406 may be retained on spray head nesting engagement 1408 and configured to rotate about spray head nesting engagement 1408. In some embodiments, one or more swipe pads 1410 may be positioned between spray head nesting engagement 1408 and temperature adjustment ring 1406. In some embodiments, swipe pads 1410 may comprise one or more capacitive touch sensors configured to detect when a user makes a swiping motion with their finger in the vicinity of swipe pads 1410. In some embodiments, swipe pads 1410 may be configured to detect a position of temperature adjustment ring 1406. In some embodiments, based on the detected position of temperature adjustment ring 1406, swipe pads 1410 may be configured to transmit a signal to a mixing valve in order to control the temperature of water transmitted to faucet 1400.
In some embodiments, temperature control assembly 1506 may include features of temperature control assembly 106 shown in
In some embodiments, faucet 1500 may be configured to provide a plurality of spray modes. Faucet 1500 may comprise one or more spray mode controls 1510, each of which may be configured to initiate a different spray mode. In some embodiments, spray mode controls 1510 may comprise one or more capacitive touch sensors, pressure sensors, or push buttons. In some embodiments, faucet 1500 may comprise greater than or equal to about 1, about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, or about 10 spray mode controls 1510. In some embodiments, faucet 1500 may comprise less than or equal to about 15, about 12, about 10, about 8, about 5, about 4, or about 3 spray mode controls 1510. In some embodiments, at least one of spray mode controls 1510 may be configured to turn faucet 1500 on.
In some embodiments, upon receiving user input from the faucet user, capacitive touch sensors 1606 may be configured to transmit a signal to lights 1608. In some embodiments, faucet 1600 may comprise greater than or equal to about 1, about 5, about 10, about 15, or about 20 lights 1608. In some embodiments, faucet 1600 may comprise less than or equal to about 50, about 30, about 20, about 15, about 10, or about 5 lights 1608. In some embodiments, faucet 1600 may comprise between about 1-5, about 5-10, about 10-15, about 15-20, about 20-25, or about 25-30 lights 1608. Lights 1608 may be configured to transmit visual signals to a faucet user based on a current water temperature and/or a user input provided by the faucet user indicating a desired water temperature. A greater number of lights 1608 may increase the complexity and precision of signals that faucet 1600 can provide to the faucet user.
In some embodiments, lights 1608 may be configured to emit light of any wavelength in the visible range of the electromagnetic spectrum. In some embodiments, one or more lights of lights 1608 may be configured to emit light of different wavelengths, possibly simultaneously. In some embodiments, each light of lights 1607 may be configured to emit the same wavelength of light at the same time. In some embodiments, the wavelength of light emitted by one or more lights of lights 1608 may change as the faucet user provides input to capacitive touch sensors 1606 to indicate that they would like to increase or decrease their desired water temperature. In some embodiments, the wavelength of light emitted by lights 1608 may increase (e.g., the color of emitted light may shift toward an orange or a red color) as the faucet user swipes along capacitive touch sensors 1606 in a first direction. In some embodiments, the wavelength of light emitted by lights 1608 may decrease (e.g., the color of emitted light may shift toward a blue or a violet color) as the faucet user swipes along capacitive touch sensors 1606 in a first direction.
In some embodiments, the color of light emitted by lights 1608 may change based on user input received by capacitive touch sensors 1606. For example, if the faucet user indicates, using capacitive touch sensors 1606, that they wish faucet 1600 to deposit hot water, lights 1608 may be configured to emit light at a hot water indicator wavelength. In some embodiments, a hot water indicator wavelength may be less than or equal to about 750, about 625, about 590, or about 565 nm. In some embodiments, a hot water indicator wavelength may be greater than or equal to about 565, about 590, about 625, or about 750 nm. In some embodiments, a hot water indicator wavelength may be between about 500-565, about 565-590, about 590-625, or about 625-750 nm. Likewise, if the faucet user indicates, using capacitive touch sensors 1606, that they wish faucet 1600 to deposit cold water, lights 1608 may be configured to emit light at a cold water indicator wavelength. In some embodiments, a cold water indicator wavelength may be less than or equal to about 500, about 485, about 450, or about 380 nm. In some embodiments, a cold water indicator wavelength may be greater than or equal to about 380, about 450, about 485, or about 500 nm. In some embodiments, a cold water indicator wavelength may be between about 380-450, about 450-485, about 485-500, or about 500-565 nm.
In some embodiments, faucet 1600 may comprise one or more spray controls 1610. Spray controls 1610 may be configured to control one or more spray modes which may be provided by faucet 1600. In some embodiments, spray controls 1610 may comprise one or more capacitive touch sensors 1612, each of which may be disposed within ring lights 1614. In some embodiments, upon receiving a user input from a faucet user, capacitive touch sensors 1612 may be configured to transmit a signal to ring lights 1614 to cause ring lights 1614 to emit light. This may provide a visual signal to the faucet user indicating the faucet user's chosen spray mode.
The foregoing description, for the purpose of explanation, has been described with reference to specific embodiments and/or examples. However, the illustrative discussions above are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the techniques and their practical applications. Others skilled in the art are thereby enabled to best utilize the techniques and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.
In addition, it is also to be understood that the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” used in the following description are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It is also to be understood that the term “and/or” as used herein, refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It is further to be understood that the terms “includes,” “including,” “comprises,” and/or “comprising,” when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or units, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, units, and/or groups thereof.
Although the disclosure and examples have been fully described with reference to the accompanying figures, it is to be noted that various changes and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications are to be understood as being included within the scope of the disclosure and examples as defined by the claims. Finally, the entire disclosure of the patents and publications referred to in this application are hereby incorporated herein by reference.
Any of the systems, methods, techniques, and/or features disclosed herein may be combined, in whole or in part, with any other systems, methods, techniques, and/or features disclosed herein.
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/326,585, filed Apr. 1, 2022, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by reference.
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/US2023/017110 | 3/31/2023 | WO |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63326585 | Apr 2022 | US |
