Patent Grant
11879239
The present invention relates in general to the field of lavatory systems. More particularly, the present invention relates to a lavatory system having a multi-function fixture. Specifically, a preferred embodiment of the present invention relates to a multi-function fixture for a lavatory system at which a user receives soap and water to wash hands and at which an air flow is provided to dry the hands after washing.
As is known to those skilled in the art, washrooms have historically included separate soap dispensers, wash basins with faucets, and hand dryers or towel dispensers. Soap dispensers may be located between wash stations or in a location convenient to several wash stations. When a user dispenses soap, excess soap may drip from the dispenser. If a user has previously placed hands under the faucet to first wet hands, then water also drips from the user's hands as soap is applied. If the soap dispenser is not located over the wash basin, the excess soap and/or water drips on the deck of the basin or on the floor depending on the location of the soap dispenser. Further, as a user moves between the wash basin and the hand dryer or towel dispenser, excess water drips from the user's hands to the deck of the basin or to the floor depending on the location of the hand dryer or towel dispenser. The need to move between stations when washing hands results in an undesirable mess in the washroom.
To reduce the amount of mess, it has been known to add a soap dispenser next to the faucet where both are located over the same basin. However, this still requires a user moving to a hand dryer or towel dispenser. Recently, lavatory systems have been developed that further include a drying station also located over the wash basin. Thus, the entire process of washing and drying a user's hands may be completed without moving away from the wash basin.
However, such stations have so far required more space per user than existing lavatory systems. The addition of a drying station may require a larger basin. Further, the soap dispenser, faucet, and hand dryer create three fixtures that must be positioned on the deck of the lavatory system and arranged around the basin. Thus, it would be desirable to provide a fixture for a lavatory system that incorporates each of the dispensing features and that may be realized without requiring additional space per user.
The present invention is directed to a fixture for a lavatory system that incorporates each of the dispensing features required to wash a user's hands and that does not require additional space per user. In addition, the lavatory system includes a soap refill port disposed on the countertop adjacent the fixture.
In accordance to an embodiment of the invention, a lavatory system includes a countertop with a basin, a fixture extending over the basin, and a soap system mounted to the countertop adjacent the basin. The fixture includes at least one leg and an extension section extending from the at least one leg. A first outlet for dispensing water is disposed along the extension section, while a second outlet for dispensing soap is also disposed along the extension section. A first passage and a second passage are distributed through the at least one leg of the fixture. A first tube carries water through one of the first passage and the second passage, while a second tube caries soap through one of the first passage and the second passage.
The soap system includes a mounting component, a refill port, a cap, a soap container, and a soap pump. The mounting component is disposed within an orifice formed in the countertop. The refill port extends from the countertop, through the mounting component, and to the soap container disposed below the countertop. The cap is disposed on the countertop and over the opening of the refill port. The soap pump is fluidically coupled to the soap container. As a result, the soap pump is configured to transmit soap from the soap container to the second tube of the fixture. Further, a mounting bracket is secured below the countertop in order to support the soap container.
According to another aspect of the invention, the mounting bracket includes a top plate having an opening formed therein. As a result, the refill port and mounting component are able to pass through the opening of the top plate. In turn, a nut engages with a threaded portion of the mounting component below the top plate to secure the mounting bracket to the countertop.
According to yet another aspect of the invention, the mounting component may further include a spacer element disposed between the countertop and the top plate in order to space the mounting bracket from the countertop. In one instance, the spacer element may at least partially surround the refill port. In another instance, the spacer element may extend upward from the top plate of the mounting bracket.
According to another aspect of the invention, the mounting bracket also includes a side plate extending downward from a first side edge of the top plate and along a side of the soap container. The side plate includes a notch formed at a top edge of the side plate. Similarly, the top plate includes a notch formed at the first side edge of the top plate. The notch of the side plate aligns with the notch of the top plate. The mounting bracket also includes a bottom plate. In turn, the soap container is configured to rest on the bottom plate of the mounting bracket.
According to yet another aspect of the invention, the mounting bracket includes a bottom plate spaced apart from the top plate and configured to receive the soap container thereon in addition to a side plate extending between the top and bottom plates. The side plate may include an upper portion extending downward from the top plate to a location adjacent a top surface of the soap container, an intermediate portion extending outward from the upper portion along the top surface of the soap container, and a lower portion extending downward from the intermediate portion along a side of the soap container and to the bottom plate. In turn, the side plate is able to follow the contour of the soap container.
According to another embodiment of the invention, the side plate may include at least one side extension extending perpendicular from at least one of the first edge and the second edge of the side plate. For example, a first side extension may extend from a first edge of the side plate and along a side of the soap container, while a second side extension extends from the second edge of the side plate along an opposite side of the soap container.
According to yet another embodiment of the invention, a strap may extend from a location at or adjacent a first edge of the side plate, around the soap container, and to a location at or adjacent a second edge of the side plate. Openings may be formed in the side plate at or adjacent the first and second edges thereof either in the side plate or in its side extensions.
According to another aspect of the invention, the soap system further includes a display element configured to indicate to a user a soap level status of the soap container. Further, the fixture may include a third outlet disposed along the extension section for dispensing air. In addition, the at least one leg may be in the form of a first leg and a second leg. In such an instance, the first passage may be disposed in the first leg, while the second passage may be disposed in the second leg.
These and other aspects and objects of the present invention will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following description, while indicating preferred embodiments of the present invention, is given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the present invention without departing from the spirit thereof, and the invention includes all such modifications.
A clear conception of the advantages and features constituting the present invention, and of the construction and operation of typical mechanisms provided with the present invention, will become more readily apparent by referring to the exemplary, and therefore non-limiting, embodiments illustrated in the drawings accompanying and forming a part of this specification, wherein like reference numerals designate the same elements in the several views, and in which:
In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention which is illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, it is not intended that the invention be limited to the specific terms so selected and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose. For example, the word connected, attached, or terms similar thereto are often used. They are not limited to direct connection but include connection through other elements where such connection is recognized as being equivalent by those skilled in the art.
The present invention and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments described in detail in the following description.
Throughout this description, various terms denoting direction, such as left and right, front and rear, up and down, top and bottom, and the like may be used. The directions are not intended to be limiting but are used to describe relationships of elements with respect to each other in the accompanying drawings. Unless mutually exclusive, it is contemplated that the elements may be reversed, for example, by turning a component around or upside down without deviating from the scope of the present invention.
Turning initially to
The basin 20 is a recessed area below the upper surface 14 of the deck 12 and is configured to receive products dispensed into the lavatory system. According to the illustrated embodiment, the basin 20 includes a first side 22 (see also
The lavatory system 10 includes a housing 40 located below the deck 12 and extending around the lower portion of the lavatory system 10. According to the illustrated embodiment, the housing 40 includes a first side 42 and a second side 44, where the second side is opposite the first side. A rear edge of each of the first side 42 and the second side 44 abuts the wall to which the lavatory system 10 is mounted. Each of the first side 42 and the second side 44 extend forward, generally orthogonal to the wall. A front surface 46 of the housing extends downward and to the rear from a lower surface 15 of the deck 12. The front surface 46 extends the height of each of the first and second sides 42, 44. According to one embodiment of the invention, each of the first side 42, second side 44, and front surface 46 extend to the floor. According to another embodiment of the invention, the each of the first side 42, second side 44, and front surface 46 extend to some height above the floor. The front surface 46 is sloped to the rear from where it abuts the lower surface 15 of the deck 12. It is contemplated that the housing 40 may include a bottom surface (not shown) if the housing does not extend to the floor. Optionally, the housing may be open on the bottom as defined by the periphery of the first side 42, second side 44, front surface 46 and wall to which the lavatory system 10 is mounted. The housing 40 encloses the components of the lavatory system 10 located below the deck to provide a measure of protection to the components and to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance to the lavatory system 10. Although the housing 40 is described in detail with respect to the illustrated embodiment, it is understood that the housing 40 may take various shapes as would be understood to one skilled in the art without deviating from the scope of the invention.
The lavatory system 10 further includes a drain system 60 extending longitudinally across the width of the basin 20. With reference also to
The drain cap 70 is configured to be removably mounted within the drain system 60. The drain cap 70 includes a front surface 72, a rear surface 74, and a top surface 73, where the top surface 73 spans between the front surface 72 and the rear surface 74 and each of the front, rear, and top surfaces extend the width of the drain channel 62. Each of the front surface 72 and the rear surface 74 have a tab 76 extending downward from the respective surface. The tab 76 includes a first surface 77, which is generally coplanar with and protrudes downward from the corresponding front or rear surface, and a second surface 78, which is generally orthogonal to and protrudes outward from the first surface 77. Preferably, the drain cap 70 and the tabs 76 are constructed of a sheet material, such as a stainless steel. The thickness of the sheet material provides sufficient rigidity that the drain cap 70 retains its desired shape if removed from the drain channel 62. However, the width of each tab 76 and the thickness of the sheet material for the drain cap 70 allows the tab 76 to deflect inward when a force is applied. Such a force may be applied, for example, when inserting the drain cap 70 into the drain channel. Each tab 76 is deflected inward as the drain cap 70 is inserted into the drain channel and as each tab 76 is inserted through the notch 68 in the periphery of the drain opening 66. The height of the first surface 77 of the tab 76 is equal to or greater than a thickness of the lower surface 65 of the drain channel 62. As a result, when the drain cap 70 continues to be inserted, the tab 76 extends through the lower surface 65. The material from which the tab 76 is made is resilient such that it returns to its original position once the tabs 76 are fully through the opening 66 in the drain channel 62. The second surface 78 of each tab 76 extends under the lower surface 65 of the drain channel, positively retaining the drain cap 70 within the drain channel 62. Applying pressure to each tab 76 such that the tab is again biased inward a sufficient distance that the second surface 78 is moved from beneath the lower surface 65 and within the periphery of the opening 66 of the drain channel 62 allows the drain cap 70 to be removed from the drain channel 62.
It is further contemplated that each of the front surface 72 and the rear surface 74 of the drain cap 70 include a series of bumpers 75 affixed to the surface and spaced out along the length of the drain cap. The bumpers 75 fit between the front surface 72 of the drain cap 70 and the front wall 64 of the drain channel 62 and between the rear surface 74 of the drain cap 70 and the rear wall 63 of the drain channel 62. The bumpers 75 define a press fit between the surfaces and help align the drain cap 70 within the drain channel 62. In addition, because the drain cap 70 is preferably made from a metal material, such as stainless steel, and the basin 20 and drain channel 62 are preferably made from a synthetic resin material, stone material, or combination thereof, the bumpers 75 aid in preventing damage to the drain channel 62 from the drain cap 70 as the cap is inserted into or removed from the channel.
Further, the top surface 73 of the drain cap 70 may be configured to help guide the direction of airflow dispensed from fixture 100. As will be discussed in more detail below, the fixture 100 is operative to dispense air flow into the basin 20 to dry a user's hands after washing. With further reference to
According to one embodiment of the invention, the drain cap 70 may be configured to guide the direction of the airflow toward the corners of the basin 20. With reference to
According to another embodiment of the invention, the drain cap 70 may be configured to guide the direction of the airflow upward along the third side 26 of the basin 20. With reference to
Turning next to
A drain plate 80 is inserted into the drain channel 62 to divide the channel 62 into two chambers. An upper chamber 81 is defined between the drain cap 70 and the drain plate 80, and a lower chamber 83 is defined between the drain plate 80 and the lower surface 65 of the channel 62. A series of supports 82 are integrally formed in the rear and front walls 63, 64 of the drain channel 62 to support the drain plate 80. Each support 82 extends from the lower surface 65 of the channel 62 and for a portion of the height of the channel 62. Each support protrudes into the channel 62 from the rear and front walls 63, 64 for a short distance, sufficient to support the drain plate 80 yet allowing water to flow along the channel 62. The width of the drain plate 80 is generally equal to the width of the channel at the top of the supports 82, such that the drain plate 80 may be set into the channel and rest on each of the supports 82.
The drain plate 80 further includes a series of openings 84 spaced longitudinally along the plate 80 to allow water to flow from the upper chamber 81 to the lower chamber 83. According to the illustrated embodiment, each opening 84 is located along on outer edge of the drain plate 80 and extends longitudinally along the drain plate 80. The openings 84 may be spaced at intervals alternately to the supports 82, such that the water may flow from the upper chamber 81 through the openings, between adjacent supports 82, and into the lower chamber 83.
The lower chamber 83 is in fluid communication with the drain opening 66. Thus, when water is dispensed into the basin 20, it runs down the fourth side 28 of the basin to the drain channel. The water flows around each edge of the drain cap 70 and into the upper chamber 81 while other debris is kept out of the drain channel by the drain cap 70. The water then flows along the upper surface of the drain plate 80 toward the drain opening. As the water flows along the upper surface of the drain plate 80, it falls through one of the openings 84 to the lower chamber 83. Once in the lower chamber 83, the water flows toward the drain opening 66 and out of the basin 20 to the drainpipe 90.
Turning next to
Whether the pipe 89 is integrally molded or separately mounted below the basin 20, a series of openings 84 are formed through the lower surface 65 of the drain channel 62 and into the pipe 89. The openings 84 may be formed, for example, by drilling holes through the lower surface 65 and into the pipe 89. The openings 84 establish fluid communication between the first chamber 81 and the second chamber 83. Thus, when water is dispensed into the basin 20, it runs down the fourth side 28 of the basin to the drain channel. The water flows around each edge of the drain cap 70 and into the first chamber 81 while other debris is kept out of the drain channel by the drain cap 70. The water then flows along the lower surface 65 of the first chamber 81 toward the drain opening 66. As the water flows along the lower surface 65 of the first chamber 81, a portion of the water falls through one of the openings 84 to the second chamber 83. The portion of the water in the second chamber 83 also flows toward the drain opening 66. Whether flowing in the first chamber 81 or the second chamber 83, the water reaches the drain opening 66 and flows out of the basin 20 to the drainpipe 90.
Although the drain channel 62 and drain cap 70 are described in detail with respect to the illustrated embodiments, it is understood that the drain channel 62 and drain cap 70 may take various shapes, where the drain cap 70 remains complementary to the drain channel 62 for insertion and removal, as would be understood to one skilled in the art without deviating from the scope of the invention.
Turning next to
According to another embodiment of the invention, the basin 20 may include an opening in the side. The opening may include a series of louvers 31 to prevent water dispensed from the fixture 100 from entering the opening. The airflow travelling up the sides may enter the opening. Similar to the embodiment including a ridge 27, a channel 29 may be provided on the rear of the basin and the airflow directed back toward the fan 210.
The lavatory system 10 also includes a multi-function fixture 100 located at each hand washing station for the lavatory system 10. According to the illustrated embodiment, the lavatory system 10 includes two wash stations. It is contemplated that the lavatory system 10 may be configured with a single wash station and have just one fixture 100 or, optionally, the lavatory system 10 may be configured with three or more wash stations, where each wash station has a separate fixture 100. The width of the lavatory system will vary according to the number of wash stations present.
Turning next to
According to the illustrated embodiment, the leg 110 has a first end 112 configured to be mounted to the deck 12 and a second end 114 extending over the basin 20. A mounting surface 113 on the first end 112 of the leg 110 engages the upper surface 14 of the deck 12. The leg 110 includes a generally rectangular cross-section where the cross-section decreases in size between the first end 112 and the second end 114 of the leg 110. When mounted to the deck 12, the leg 110 slopes forward as it extends upward from the deck 12. From a side-view, the leg 110 is generally r-shaped. The leg 110 extends upwards from the deck 12 and forwards toward the basin 20. After extending for a height, H, a bend 115 in the leg causes the leg to protrude in a generally horizontal plane for a length, L, until the second end 114 of the leg is positioned over the basin 20.
With reference also to
A connecting section 140 extends between the second ends 114 of each leg 110. The connecting section 140 has a first end 142 connected to the second end 114a of the first leg 110a and a second end 144 connected to the second end 114b of the second leg 110b. The cross-section of the first end 142 of the connecting section 140 is the same as the cross-section of the second end 114a of the first leg 110a and the cross-section of the second end 144 of the connecting section 140 is the same as the cross-section of the second end 114b of the second leg 110b. Consequently, the fixture 100 appears as a continuous unit as it transitions between each leg 110 and the connecting section 140. Further, it is contemplated that at least a portion of the first leg 110a, the second leg 110b, and the connecting section 140 may be cast, or otherwise manufactured, as a single unit. As a result, despite identifying ends of the legs 110 and ends of the connecting section 140, the locations of the ends are for illustrative purposes and may be moved axially along the leg or along the connecting section 140 without deviating from the scope of the invention.
The connecting section 140 includes multiple outlets for dispensing product over the basin 20 of the lavatory system 10. A first outlet 160 is operable to dispense soap, a second outlet 180 is operable to dispense water, and a third outlet 200 is operable to dispense air. The outlets 160, 180, 200 are spaced apart along the connecting section 140 such that a user's hands move along the connecting section 140 between outlets during the washing process. Each leg 110 includes a passage 120 defined within the interior of the leg for delivery of a product to one of the outlets. The soap and water may be delivered via tubes extending from below the deck 12 up through the passage 120 in one of the legs 110 the respective outlet. The passage 120 within one of the legs 110 is configured as an air duct to, at least in part, convey air from a blower located below the deck 12 to the air outlet. With reference also to
The connecting section 140 may also include indicators to a user identifying the location of each outlet. According to the illustrated embodiment, openings 103 are located along the front edge of the connecting section 140 through which an indicator may be displayed. A multi-color light-emitting diode (LED) 305, or red-green-blue LED array, (see also
The system for dispensing soap includes a soap reservoir, pump, and tubing to connect the pump to the soap outlet 160. The soap reservoir 310 and soap pump 316 are represented in block diagram form in
The system for dispensing water includes one or more inlet lines 322, connected to a water supply, one or more valves 320, and one or more outlet lines 324 to supply water to the water outlet 180. The inlet line 322 may be connected to a cold water supply, a hot water supply, or to a mixed water supply, where the mixed water supply includes a combination of hot and cold water. It is desirable to provide water at a comfortable temperature to the user. Therefore, a mixing valve may be provided in advance of the inlet line 322 that combines cold and hot water proportionally to supply water at a desired temperature. Optionally, the valve 320 may be a mixing valve which includes a first inlet line 322 from the cold water supply and a second inlet line 322 from a hot water supply. A signal 326 from the control circuit 302 may control the valve 320 not only in an on/off manner, but also in a proportional manner to mix the cold and hot water to supply water at a desired temperature. The outlet line 324 from the valve 320 is connected via a second tube 182 to the water outlet 180. An aerator 400 may be provided within the water outlet 180 includes a water inlet 402 to which the outlet line 324 from the valve 320 is connected.
Referring next to
The water inlet 402 extends outward from the first wall segment 412 and defines a fluid communication path between the second tube 182, through which the water flows, and the intake chamber 420. The water inlet 402 is generally cylindrical and includes a passage 404 extending axially through the inlet 402. The second tube 182 may be press fit onto a first end 401 of the water inlet 402 and the second end 403 of the water inlet 402 is integrally formed with the first wall segment 412. Preferably, the second end 403 of the water inlet 402 joins one side of the upper housing 410. Water flowing through the second tube 182 enters the passage 404 and exits along the inner periphery of the first wall segment 412. The water is supplied at a sufficient pressure such that the water follows the inner periphery of the first wall segment 412 swirling around the interior of the intake chamber 420.
The lower housing 450 is a generally cylindrical disk configured to be inserted into the upper housing 410. As previously indicated, the outer periphery 460 of the lower housing 450 is threaded such that the lower housing 450 may rotatably engage the complementary threaded inner surface 415 of the upper housing 410. The disk includes an upper surface 462 and a lower surface 464, opposite the upper surface. A plurality of passages 470 extend between the upper surface 462 and the lower surface 464. The upper surface 462 is sloped upward from an outer edge to the center of the upper surface 462, forming a generally conical surface. Multiple nozzles 480 protrude downward from the lower surface 464. One of the passages 470 extends through each nozzle 480, and the nozzles 480 define the water outlet 180 for the fixture 100. Because the water enters the intake chamber 420 along the inner periphery and swirls around the chamber, the water more uniformly fills the chamber than if the water entered the chamber at a central location and hit the opposing surface of the chamber. The water then exits the intake chamber 420 through each of the nozzles 480 with a generally uniform pressure and flow.
Although the aerator 400 has been described according to the illustrated embodiment, it is contemplated that the aerator 400 may be formed utilizing other members without deviating from the scope of the invention. For example, the aerator 400 may be formed as a single housing with the upper housing 410 and lower housings 450 integrally formed and either fixedly or removably mounted within the connecting section 140 of the fixture 100.
The system for dispensing air includes a fan 210 located below the deck 12 operable to deliver air to the air outlet 200. According to one embodiment of the invention, the fan 210 includes a centrifugal fan driven by a motor. The motor may be operated at variable speeds to adjust the airflow rate supplied by the fan. The fan 210 draws air in through an air inlet located within the housing 40 under the deck 12. A filter 354 may be provided at the inlet to capture contaminants present in the air prior to air entering the air inlet for the fan 210. With reference also to
Referring to
An inner wall 124 is provided beyond the air outlet 200 to terminate the passage 120 and separate the air passage from other interior regions of the fixture 100. The inner wall 124 is generally orthogonal to and intersects the air flow through the passage, causing the air flow to equalize over the surface of the inner wall 124 by pressure shock when the air flow hits the inner wall 124. The air outlet 200 is located on a lower surface of the fixture 100 prior to the inner wall 124 with respect to the direction of air flow. The air outlet 200 includes a nozzle 202 with a grid 204 defined in the nozzle. Each member of the grid 204 is in a generally vertical plane to direct the airflow downward from the nozzle 202. The air flow is, therefore, directed generally ninety degrees downward and out the air outlet 200 after hitting the inner wall 124. The duct 215 from the fan and the passages 139, 120 within the base 130 and leg 110, therefore, deliver air to the air outlet 200 to dry a user's hands.
Control signals 352 pass between the fan 210 and a control circuit 302. The control signals 352 may include, for example, a start command, a stop command, a speed command, or a combination thereof to control operation of the fan 210. Feedback signals may also be provided from the fan 210 to a control circuit 302 corresponding to operation of the fan or of the condition of the filter. Although not shown, it is contemplated that the system for dispensing air may include a heater located along the air flow path to increase the temperature of the air prior to delivering the air to the user's hands.
In operation, a control system 300 is provided that manages operation of the lavatory system 10. Referring next to
The control circuit 302 receives feedback signals 303 from sensors 301 in the fixture 100 indicating a user's hands are present for washing and/or drying proximate the fixture 100. According to the illustrated embodiment, four sensors 301 are provided in the fixture 100 to control the soap, water, and air delivery from the fixture 100. According to another embodiment, it is contemplated that three sensors 301 may be provided where a single sensor 301 is located proximate to each outlet. According to still another embodiment more than four sensors 301 may be provided. It is contemplated that each sensor 301 is located within the connecting section 140 of the fixture and above the lower wall of the connecting section 140. A portion of the lower wall may include an opening 103 through which the sensor may transmit a signal, such as a radio frequency (RF) or an infrared signal. The signal is reflected off the user's hands and received at the sensor 301 to detect the presence of the user's hands. If a line-of-sight sensor is used it is contemplated that a portion of the lower housing may be made of a translucent material as an alternative to providing an opening, allowing the emitted sensor signal to pass through. Optionally, a lens may be inserted in the opening 103 to allow the emitted signal to pass and to prevent water, soap, dirt, or other contaminants from entering the opening. According to another embodiment, the sensor 301 may emit a signal capable of passing through the housing of the connecting section 140. For example, a magnetic field may be generated and a disturbance in the field due to the presence of a user's hands may be detected. Still other sensing technology, such as capacitive sensing of a user's hands may be utilized without deviating from the scope of the invention.
Including more sensors 301 than outlets allows the control circuit 302 to determine information about the location and/or direction of approach for a user's hands in addition to just being located proximate to an outlet. According to the illustrated embodiment, the two inner sensors 301 may be located on either side of the water outlet 180. As a user's hands approach the water outlet 180 after receiving soap, one of the inner sensor 301 located on the same side of the water outlet 180 as the soap outlet 160 is activated first. If a user's hands are approaching the water outlet 180 from the hand dryer side of the fixture 100 the other inner sensor 301 is activated first. When the user's hands area located under the water outlet 180, both of the inner sensors 301 are arranged to detect the hands. The control circuit may generate different control signals responsive to the sequence in which the inner sensors are activated.
Looking first at the control of the soap system, at least one sensor 301 is located near the soap outlet 160 to detect a user's hands located below the outlet 160. When a user's hands are located beneath the soap outlet 160, the sensor 301 generates a feedback signal 303 to the control circuit indicating their presence. In response to receiving the feedback signal 303, the control circuit 302 may flash or change the color of the LED 305 for the soap outlet 160 to provide an indication to the user that the hands were detected by the soap outlet 160. The control circuit 302 may also generate a control signal 318 to the soap pump 316, causing it to activate such that soap is dispensed. The soap pump 316 may be energized for a predefined period of time or execute one or more fixed pumping cycles, drawing soap from the reservoir 310 and up through the soap tube 162 to the soap nozzle 164 where it is dispensed onto the user's hands. It is further contemplated that the sensor 301 proximate the soap outlet 160 may be configured to detect a user's hands for only a short distance below the fixture 100. For example, the user's hand may need to be within three inches or within two inches of the sensor 301 to detect their presence. This detection distance is preferably configurable within the sensor 301 and may be set less than the detection distance of the water outlet as will be discussed in more detail below.
The controller 302 may further be configured to interlock the soap dispenser based on other activity at the fixture 100. For example, if the air dryer is active, it may be desirable to prevent soap from being dispensed such that it is not blown around the basin. Further, it may be desirable to require a user to remove their hands prior to dispensing additional soap. This prevents continued dispensing of soap if the user leaves their hands under the soap outlet 160 for an extended period of time or if, for example, a foreign object falls in the basin 20 under the fixture 100 proximate the soap outlet 160.
A level detection sensor 312, such as a float switch, may be provided within the reservoir. The level detection sensor 312 generates a feedback signal 314 to the control signal when the soap level is low and requires refilling. The control circuit 302 may activate the LED 305 proximate the soap outlet 160 in a manner indicating the soap level is low. For example, the control circuit 302 may flash the LED 305 or turn the color of the LED to red indicating that the level is low.
Turning next to control of the water system, at least one sensor 301 is located near the water outlet 180 to detect a user's hands located below the outlet 180. When a user's hands are located beneath the water outlet 180, the sensor 301 generates a feedback signal 303 to the control circuit indicating their presence. In response to receiving the feedback signal 303, the control circuit 302 may flash or change the color of the LED 305 for the water outlet 180 to provide an indication to the user that the hands were detected by the water outlet 180. The control circuit 302 may also generate a control signal 326 to the water valve 320, causing it to activate such that water is dispensed. The water valve 320 may be energized for a predefined time or may remain on while the user's hands are detected under the water outlet 180.
It is further contemplated that the sensor 301 proximate the water outlet 180 may be configured to detect a user's hands below the fixture 100 for a distance equal to the height of the fixture 100 above the basin 20. As a result, the user's hands will be detected at any height between the water outlet 180 and the basin 20. This detection distance is preferably configurable within the sensor 301 and may be set greater than the detection distance of the soap outlet. Requiring the user to position their hands closer to the soap outlet to receive soap than is required to dispense water will help prevent inadvertent dispensing of soap. For example, as a user rinses the soap from their hands under the water outlet 180, the hand, arm, or a portion thereof may move under the soap outlet 160. However, a user typically positions their hands at a distance below the water outlet 180 to avoid water splashing or spraying from their hands or from making contact with the fixture 100 while rinsing the hands. The distance users typically position their hands is greater than the distance at which the sensor 301 proximate the soap outlet is set for detection. As a result, even if a portion of the user's hands or arm moves under the sensor 301 for the soap while using the water outlet 180, additional soap is not dispensed.
The control circuit 302 may further be configured to provide interlocks in dispensing water from the fixture 100. For example, if the air dryer is active, it may be desirable to prevent water from being dispensed such that it is not blown around the basin. Further, it may be desirable to require a user to remove their hands from beneath the water outlet 180 and stop dispensing water to dispensing air. A maximum duration may also be configured for which the water outlet 180 may dispense water without requiring the user to remove and reinsert their hands beneath the water outlet 180. This prevents continued dispensing of water if the user leaves their hands under the water outlet 180 for an extended period of time or if, for example, a foreign object falls in the basin 20 under the fixture 100 proximate the water outlet 180.
Turning then to control of the air system, at least one sensor 301 is located near the air outlet 200 to detect a user's hands located below the outlet 200. When a user's hands are located beneath the air outlet 200, the sensor 301 generates a feedback signal 303 to the control circuit indicating their presence. In response to receiving the feedback signal 303, the control circuit 302 may flash or change the color of the LED 305 for the air outlet 200 to provide an indication to the user that the hands were detected by the air outlet 200. The control circuit 302 may also generate a control signal 352 to the fan 210, causing it to activate such that air is dispensed. The fan 210 may be energized for a predefined time or may remain on while the user's hands are detected under the air outlet 200.
The sensor 301 proximate the air outlet 200 may be configured to detect a user's hands below the fixture 100 for a distance equal to the height of the fixture 100 above the basin 20. As a result, the user's hands will be detected at any height between the air outlet 200 and the basin 20. This detection distance is preferably configurable within the sensor 301 and may be set greater than the detection distance of the soap outlet. The motor for the fan 210 may be configured to operate at multiple speeds. It is contemplated that one speed will be selected when the lavatory system is configured, or reconfigured, and that the motor will run at that speed each time the sensor 301 detects a user's hands beneath the air outlet 200. According to one aspect of the invention, the motor speed may be selected such that a user's hands are dried within a desired time duration. The selected speed may vary, for example, as a function of the size of the fixture 100, the volume of air delivered by the fixture, or whether a heater is present within the air flow. According to another aspect of the invention, the motor speed may be selected such that the motor and air flow generate noise at an acceptable level while the user's hands are located within the air stream.
The control circuit 302 may further be configured to provide interlocks in dispensing air from the fixture 100. For example, if the air dryer is active, it may be desirable to prevent water from being dispensed such that it is not blown around the basin. Further, it may be desirable to require a user to remove their hands from beneath the air outlet 200 and stop dispensing air prior to dispensing water. A maximum duration may also be configured for which the air outlet 200 may dispense air without requiring the user to remove and reinsert their hands beneath the air outlet 200. This prevents continued dispensing of air if the user leaves their hands under the air outlet 200 for an extended period of time or if, for example, a foreign object falls in the basin 20 under the fixture 100 proximate the air outlet 200.
According to another aspect of the invention, the lavatory system 10 may include one or more approach sensors 370. Each approach sensor 370 may be mounted on an inside surface of the housing 40 and in line with one of the fixtures 100. The housing 40 may include an opening 371 through which the sensor may transmit a signal, such as a radio frequency (RF) or an infrared signal. The signal is reflected off the user as the user approaches the lavatory system 10 and received at the sensor 370 to detect the user's approach. If a line-of-sight sensor is used, it is contemplated that a portion of the housing 40 may be made of a translucent material, allowing the emitted sensor signal to pass through. Optionally, a lens may be inserted in the opening 371 to allow the emitted signal to pass and to prevent water, soap, dirt, or other contaminants from entering the opening. According to another embodiment, the sensor 370 may emit a signal capable of passing through the housing 40. For example, a magnetic field may be generated and a disturbance in the field due to the presence of a user may be detected.
Each approach sensor 370 generates a feedback signal 372 to the control circuit 302. The control circuit 302 may use the approach signal 372, for example, to bring the lavatory system 10 out of a power-saving state or may prepare the lavatory system 10 for use. In the power saving state, a portion of the control circuit 302 may be de-energized. When the approach signal 372 is detected, the lavatory system 10 may energize the entire control circuit 302 in anticipation of use. Similarly, the control circuit 302 may energize a heater, if present, to begin warming air for delivery to a user. According to yet another example, the visual indicators 305 on the fixture 100 may be energized in response to receiving the approach signal 372. Still other actions may be taken in response to the approach signal 372 at the control circuit 302 that will speed the user's hand washing experience.
According to another aspect of the invention, the lavatory system 10 is configurable using the sensors 301 in the fixture 100. Previously, configuration of a lavatory system 10 would be performed, for example, via dip switches, a rotary switch, or the like located within or near the enclosure for the control circuit 302 and contained under the deck 12 and within the housing 40 of the lavatory system 10. Changing operation such as the motor speed for the fan 210, volume of soap dispensed, duration of water flow, and the like required removing the housing 40 and accessing the switches beneath the deck 12. The present lavatory system 10 provides for configuration of the lavatory system 10 via the sensors 301 above the deck without removing the housing 40.
A user may enter a configuration mode for the lavatory system 10 by inserting the user's hands under the sensors 301 in a predefined sequence. The sequence is selected to avoid accidental entry of the configuration mode during normal operation of the lavatory system 10. For example, the sequence may require placing the right hand under a first sensor and a left hand under a second sensor where the right hand is inserted ahead of the left hand by less than a second. Both hands are then held under the sensors for at least ten seconds. According to another example, the sequence may require activating each sensor 301 in sequence from left-to-right or right-to-left multiple times in succession and subsequently holding a hand under one of the sensor 301 for a predefined time. Still other sequences may be used without deviating from the scope of the invention. Once the lavatory system 10 has entered configuration mode, each of the visual indicators 305 may provide an indication to the user of the configuration mode. The indicators 305 may, for example, turn to a unique color designating configuration mode.
The user then continues to configure the lavatory system 10 by further passing the user's hands under different sensors 301. The user may first select which system to configure, that is whether the user wishes to configure the soap dispensing system, the water dispensing system, or the air dispensing system. A particular system may be selected by inserting the user's hands under a sensor 301 proximate to the respective outlet. For example, to configure the water dispensing system, the user may insert a hand under a sensor 301 proximate the water outlet 180 and to configure the air dispensing system, the user may insert a hand under a sensor 301 proximate the air outlet 200. The visual indicator proximate the selected system may remain the color identifying configuration mode and begin to flash to indicate that the particular system has been selected. Optionally, the lavatory system 10 may contain a predefined number of parameters that are configurable via the sensors 301 and the user may increment or decrement through each parameter by inserting a hand under one of the sensors 301. Identification of the parameter may occur by briefly activating the device to be configured or by flashing a parameter number on the visual indicators.
Once a system or a particular parameter has been selected, the user again inserts a hand under one of the sensors 301. It is contemplated that a first sensor 301 may be utilized to choose a parameter for configuration and a second sensor 301 may be utilized to change the setting of the parameter. The parameter preferably has a predefined set of settings. For example, the motor for the fan may have a low, medium, and high speed setting. Each time a user inserts a hand under the second sensor 301 the setting of the parameter increments or decrements to the next setting. The lavatory system 10 may briefly activate the motor so that the user may observe the air flow resulting from the selected motor speed and determine which setting is desired.
Now referring to
The lavatory system 1010 includes a deck 1012 that is configured to be mounted to a wall, preferably via wall mounts (not shown). The deck 1012 includes an upper surface 1014 and an outer periphery 1016 extending downward from the upper surface 1014 and around the deck 1012. A basin 1020 is locate within the deck 1012. According to one embodiment of the invention, the deck 1012 and the basin 1020 may integrally formed as a single unit. Alternatively, the basin 1020 may be mounted to the deck 1012. It is further contemplated that the lavatory system 1010 may be free-standing, supported by the floor rather than being wall mounted.
The basin 1020 is a recessed are below the upper surface 1014 of the deck 1012 and is configured to receive products dispensed into the lavatory system 1010. According to the illustrated embodiment, the basin 1020 includes a first side 1022 and a second side 1024 opposite the first side 1022. Each of the first and second sides 1022, 1024 extend generally orthogonal to and away from the wall on which the lavatory system 1010 is mounted. The basin 1020 also includes a third side 1026 extending downward from an upper edge which joins the upper surface 1014 of the deck 1012 along the rear of the basin and further extends between the first side 1022 and the second side 1024. The third side 1026 extends downward and the lower end of the third side 1026 forms, in part, a drain channel 1062 in the bottom of the basin 1020. The basin 1020 further includes a fourth side 1028 extending downward from an upper edge which joins the upper surface 1014 of the deck 1012 along the front of the basin 1020 and also extends between the first side 1022 and the second side 1024. The fourth side 1028 of the basin 1020 is sloped inward and downward from the front edge of the basin to a front edge of the drain channel 1062. Although the basin 1020 is described in detail with respect to the illustrated embodiment, it is understood that the basin 1020 may take various shapes as would be understood to one skilled in the art without deviating from the scope of the invention.
The lavatory system 1010 includes a housing 1040 located below the deck 1012 and extending around the lower portion of the lavatory system 1010. According to the illustrated embodiment, the housing 1040 includes a first side 1042 and a second side 1044 opposite the first side 1042. A rear edge of each of the first side 1042 and the second side 1044 abuts the wall to which the lavatory system 1010 is mounted. Each of the first side 1042 and the second side 1044 extend forward, generally orthogonal to the wall. A front surface 1046 of the housing extends downward and to the rear from a lower surface 1015 of the deck 1012. The front surface 1046 extends the height of each of the first and second sides 1042, 1044. According to one embodiment of the invention, each of the first side 1042, second side 1044, and front surface 1046 extend to the floor. According to another embodiment of the invention, the each of the first side 1042, second side 1044, and front surface 1046 extend to some height above the floor. The front surface 46 is sloped to the rear from where it abuts the lower surface 1015 of the deck 1012. It is contemplated that the housing 1040 may include a bottom surface (not shown) if the housing does not extend to the floor. Optionally, the housing may be open on the bottom as defined by the periphery of the first side 1042, second side 1044, front surface 1046 and wall to which the lavatory system 1010 is mounted. The housing 1040 encloses the components of the lavatory system 1010 located below the deck to provide a measure of protection to the components and to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance to the lavatory system 1010. Although the housing 1040 is described in detail with respect to the illustrated embodiment, it is understood that the housing 1040 may take various shapes as would be understood to one skilled in the art without deviating from the scope of the invention.
Referring now to the multi-function fixture 1100, the multi-function fixture 1100 is located at a hand washing station for the lavatory system 1010. While the representative embodiment shows a single washing station and single multi-function fixture 1100, other embodiments of the invention may include multiple washing stations and multiple associated multi-function fixtures 1100. The width of the lavatory system will vary according to the number of wash stations present.
As shown, the first end 1112 of each leg 1110 of the multi-function fixture 1100 is configured to be mounted to the deck 1012. An opening (not shown) extends through the mounting surface 1113 of the deck 1012 and is in communication with a passage (not shown) within the leg 1110. A base 1130 is received within the opening of the leg 1110 and secures the fixture 1100 to the deck 1012. The base 1130 also include a passage (not shown) extending therethrough and being in fluid communication with the passage of the leg 1110. The base 1130 extends from a first end (not shown) with the leg 1110 of the fixture 1100 to a second end 1134 inserted into the opening of the deck 1012 and extending below the deck 1012. To secure the fixture 1100 to the deck 1012, the base 1130 is affixed to each leg 1110 and inserted through the opening in the deck 1012. A nut 1135 is threaded onto the base 1130 from below the deck 1012 to secure the fixture 1100 to the deck 1012.
The fixture 1100 includes an extension section 1140 that includes multiple outlets for dispensing product over the basin 1020 of the lavatory system 1010. In the representative embodiment of the invention, a first outlet is operable to dispense soap, a second outlet is operable to dispenser water, and a third outlet may be included and be operable to dispense air. The outlets are spaced apart along the extension section 1140 such that a user's hands may move along the extension section 1140 between the outlets during the washing process.
The extension section 1140 may also include indicators to a user identifying the location of each outlet. Similar to connecting section 140 of fixture 100, the extension section 1140 may include openings along the front edge of the extension section 1140 and light-emitting diodes (LED) 1705 behind each opening. It is contemplated that each opening may have a lens or be a translucent material rather than an opening to prevent soap, water, dirt, or other contaminants from entering the fixture 1100. The LED 1705 may emit different colors according to operation or flash to direct a user's attention to the location. Optionally, larger displays utilizing, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) may provide a graphical or other visual indication to the user of the purpose of each outlet located by the indicator.
The system for dispensing soap includes a soap system 2000 having a soap container 2002, a pump 2004, and tubing to connect the pump 2004 to the soap outlet. In embodiments of the invention including multiple multi-function fixtures 1100, the soap container 2002 may be coupled to either a single soap pump 2004 connected to each soap outlet of the multiple multi-function fixtures 1100 or the soap container 2002 may be coupled to multiple soap pumps 2004 located at each multiple multi-function fixture 1100. As shown in
As shown in
The soap system 2000 may also include at least one spacer element 2030 disposed between the top plate 2020 of the mounting bracket 2018 and the deck 1012. The spacer element 2030 is configured to surround the main body 2010 of the mounting component 2008 and increase the distance between the deck 1012 and the top plate 2020 of the mounting component 2008. As shown in
Referring again to the mounting plate 2018, the first and second side plates 2022, 2024 of the mounting plate 2018 are configured to extend downward from the top plate 2020 and along the sides 2026, 2028 of the soap container 2002. The bottom plate 2025 extends between the side plates 2022, 2024 at the bottom edge. In the representative embodiment of the invention, the bottom plate 2025 is coupled to the side plates 2022, 2024 via fasteners 2027 disposed at the bottom edges of the side plates 2022, 2024. The container 2002 then is able to sit on the bottom plate 2025. In turn, the side plates 2022, 2024 and bottom plate 2025 of mounting plate 2008 act as a cradle to provide additional support for the soap container 2002 underneath the deck 1012.
In order to further accommodate the base 1130 of the adjacent fixture 1100, at least one of the top plate 2020 and the side plate 2024 adjacent the base 1130 may include notches 2034, 2036 formed therein. As shown in
Next,
The soap system 3000 may also include at least one spacer element 3030 disposed between the top plate 3020 of the mounting bracket 3018 and the deck 1012. The spacer element 3030 is configured to increase the distance between the deck 1012 and the top plate 3020 of the mounting component 3008. In this embodiment of the invention, the spacer element 3030 may be in the form of extensions 3030 extending upward from top plate 3020 at the edges of the top plate 3020. As shown in
As stated above, the mounting plate 3018 includes a side plate 3022. As shown in
Referring next to
The soap system 4000 may also include at least one spacer element 4030 disposed between the top plate 4020 of the mounting bracket 4018 and the deck 1012. The spacer element 4030 is configured to increase the distance between the deck 1012 and the top plate 4020 of the mounting component 4008. In this embodiment of the invention, the spacer element 4030 may be in the form of extensions 4030 extending upward from top plate 4020 at the edges of the top plate 4020. As shown in
As stated above, the mounting plate 4018 includes a side plate 4022. As shown in
In the representative embodiment of the invention shown in
Next,
The soap system 5000 may also include at least one spacer element 5030 disposed between the top plate 5020 of the mounting bracket 5018 and the deck 1012. The spacer element 5030 is configured to surround either entirely or partially the main body 5010 of the mounting component 5008 and increase the distance between the deck 1012 and the top plate 5020 of the mounting component 5008. As shown in
As stated above, the mounting plate 5018 includes a side plate 5022 that follows the contour of the soap container 5002. As shown in
In the representative embodiment of the invention shown in
Referring now to
The pump 2004 is activated by one or more sensors 1701 located in the fixture 1100 detecting the presence of a user's hands proximate the soap outlet. The pump 2004 draws soap from the reservoir 2002 and into a tube fluidically coupling the pump 2004 and the soap outlet. The tube 1162 is run inside the leg 1120 and into the extension section 1140 of the fixture 1100. The soap is discharged from the soap outlet onto a user's hands.
The system for dispensing water includes one or more inlet lines 1722, connected to a water supply, one or more valves 1720, and one or more outlet lines 1724 to supply water to the water outlet on the extension section 1140. The inlet line 1722 may be connected to a cold water supply, a hot water supply, or a mixed water supply including a combination of hot and cold water. Since it is desirable to provide water to the user at a comfortable temperate, a mixing valve may be provided in advance of the inlet line 1722 that combines cold and hot water proportionally to supply water at a desired temperature. Optionally, the valve 1720 may be a mixing valve which includes a first inlet line 1722 from the cold water supply and a second inlet line 1722 from a hot water supply. A signal 1726 from the control circuit 1702 may control the valve 1720 not only in an on/off manner, but also in a proportional manner to mix the cold and hot water to supply water at a desired temperature. The outlet line 1724 from the valve 1720 is connected to the water outlet.
The system for dispensing air includes a fan 1610 located below the deck 1012 and operable to deliver air to the air outlet. According to one embodiment of the invention, the fan 1610 includes a centrifugal fan drive by a motor. The motor may be operated at variable speeds to adjust the airflow rate supplied by the fan 1610. The fan 1610 draws air in through an air inlet located within the housing 1040 under the deck 1012. A filter 1754 may be provided at the inlet to capture contaminants present in the air prior to entering the air inlet for the fan 1610. An air duct connects an outlet of the fan 1610 to the cold-water base 1130, which in turn connects to a passage within the leg 1110 of the fixture 1100.
Control signals 1752 pass between the fan 1610 and a control circuit 1702. The control signals 1752 may include a start command, a stop command, a speed command, or any combination thereof to control operation of the fan 1610. In addition, feedback signals corresponding to operation of the fan 1610 or the condition of the filter may be provided from the fan 1610 to the control circuit 1702. Although not shown, it is contemplated that the system for dispensing air may include a heater located along the air flow path to increase the temperature of the air prior to delivering the air to the user's hands.
In operation, a control system 1700 is provided that manages operation of the fixture 1100 and soap system 2000 of the lavatory system 1010. Referring to
The control circuit 1702 receives feedback signals 1703 from sensors 1701 in the fixture 1100 indicating a user's hands are present for washing and/or drying proximate the fixture 1100. As shown in
Having more sensors 1701 than outlets allows the control circuit 1702 to determine information about the location and/or direction of approach for a user's hands in addition to just being located proximate to an outlet. As shown in the representative embodiment of the invention, two inner sensors 1701 may be located on either side of the water outlet. As a user's hands approach the water outlet after receiving soap, the inner sensor 1701 located on the same side of the water outlet as the soap outlet is activated first. If a user's hands are approaching the water outlet from the hand dryer side of the fixture 1100, the other inner sensor 1701 is activated first. When the user's hands area located under the water outlet, both inner sensors 1701 are arranged to detect the hands. The control circuit 1702 may generate different control signals responsive to the sequence in which the inner sensors 1701 are activated.
Looking first at the control of the soap system, at least one sensor 1701 is located near the soap outlet to detect a user's hands located below the outlet. When a user's hands are located beneath the soap outlet, the sensor 1701 generates a feedback signal 1703 to the control circuit 1702 indicating their presence. In response to receiving the feedback signal 1703, the control circuit 1702 may flash or change the color of the LED 1705 via signal 1707 for the soap outlet to provide an indication to the user that the hands were detected by the soap outlet. The control circuit 1702 may also generate a control signal 1718 to the soap pump 2004 so that soap is dispensed. The soap pump 2004 may be energized for a predefined period of time or execute one or more fixed pumping cycles, drawing soap from the soap container 2002 and up through the soap tube to the soap nozzle where it is dispensed onto the user's hands. The sensor 1701 proximate the soap outlet may be configured to detect a user's hands for only a short distance below the fixture 1100. For example, the user's hand may need to be within three inches or within two inches of the sensor 1701 to detect their presence. This detection distance is preferably configurable within the sensor 1701 and may be set less than the detection distance of the water outlet 580 as will be discussed in more detail below.
The controller 1702 may also be configured to interlock the soap outlet based on other activity at the fixture 1100. For example, if the air dryer is active, it may be desirable to prevent soap from being dispensed such that it is not blown around the basin 1020. In addition, it may be desirable to require a user to remove their hands prior to dispensing additional soap. This prevents continued dispensing of soap if the user leaves their hands under the soap outlet for an extended period of time or if, for example, a foreign object falls in the basin 1020 under the fixture 1100 proximate the soap outlet.
A level detection sensor 1712, such as a float switch, may be provided within the soap container 2002. The level detection sensor 1712 generates a feedback signal 1714 to the control circuit 1702 when the soap level is low and requires filling. In the lavatory system 1010 including the soap system 2000, the control circuit 1702 may activate the display element 2040 of the soap system 2000 in a manner indicating the soap level is low. For example, the control circuit 1702 may flash the display element 2040 or turn the color of the display element 2040 to red indicating that the level is low. It contemplated that the LED 1705 associated with the soap outlet of the fixture 1100 may be deactivated by the control circuit 1702 in such instances so that the indication of soap level is only shown by the display element 2040. Alternatively, the LED 1705 associate with the soap outlet of the fixture 110 may work in conjunction with the display element 2040.
Turning next to control of the water system, at least one sensor 1701 is located near the water outlet to detect a user's hands located below the outlet. When a user's hands are located beneath the water outlet, the sensor 1701 generates a feedback signal 1703 to the control circuit 1702 indicating their presence. In response to receiving the feedback signal 1703, the control circuit 1702 may flash or change the color of the LED 1705 for the water outlet to provide an indication to the user that the hands were detected by the water outlet 580. The control circuit 1702 may also generate a control signal 1726 to the water valve 1720, causing it to activate such that water is dispensed.
The sensor 1701 proximate the water outlet may be configured to detect a user's hands below the fixture 1100 for a distance equal to the height of the fixture 1100 above the basin 1020. As a result, the user's hands will be detected at any height between the water outlet and the basin 1020. This detection distance is preferably configurable and may be set greater than the detection distance of the soap outlet. Requiring the user to position their hands closer to the soap outlet to receive soap than is required to dispense water will help prevent inadvertent dispensing of soap. For example, as a user rinses the soap from their hands under the water outlet, the hand, arm, or a portion thereof may move under the soap outlet. However, a user typically positions their hands at a distance below the water outlet to avoid water splashing or spraying from their hands or from contacting the fixture 1100 while rinsing their hands. The distance users typically position their hands is greater than the distance at which the sensor 1701 proximate the soap outlet is set for detection. As a result, even if a portion of the user's hands or arm moves under the sensor 1701 for the soap outlet while using the water outlet, additional soap is not dispensed.
The control circuit 1702 may also be configured to provide interlocks in dispensing water from the fixture 1100. For example, if the air dryer is active, it may be desirable to prevent water from being dispensed such that it is not blown around the basin 1020. Further, it may be desirable to require a user to remove their hands from beneath the water outlet and stop dispensing water before dispensing air. A maximum duration may also be configured for which the water outlet may dispense water without requiring the user to remove and reinsert their hands beneath the water outlet. This prevents continued dispensing of water if the user leaves their hands under the water outlet for an extended period of time or if, for example, a foreign object falls in the basin 1020 under the fixture 1100 proximate the water outlet.
Turning now to control of the air system, at least one sensor 1701 is located near the air outlet to detect a user's hands located below the air outlet. When a user's hands are located beneath the air outlet, the sensor 1701 generates a feedback signal 1703 to the control circuit 1702 indicating their presence. In response to receiving the feedback signal 1703, the control circuit 1702 may flash or change the color of the LED 1705 for the air outlet to provide an indication to the user that the hands were detected by the air outlet. The control circuit 1702 may also generate a control signal 1752 to the fan 1610, causing it to activate such that air is dispensed. The fan 1610 may be energized for a predefined time or may remain on while the user's hands are detected under the air outlet.
The sensor 1701 proximate the air outlet may be configured to detect a user's hand below the fixture 1100 for a distance equal to the height of the fixture 1100 above the basin 1020. As a result, the user's hands will be detected at any height between the air outlet and the basin 1020. This detection distance is preferably configurable and may be set greater than the detection distance of the soap outlet. The motor for the fan 1610 may be configured to operate at multiple speeds. One speed may be selected when the lavatory system 1010 is configured or reconfigured, and the motor will run at that speed each time the sensor 701 detects a user's hands beneath the air outlet. According to one aspect of the invention, the motor speed may be selected such that a user's hands are dried within a desired time duration. The selected speed may vary, for example, as a function of the size of the fixture 1100, the volume of air delivered by the fixture 1100, or whether a heater is present within the air flow. According to another aspect of the invention, the motor speed may be selected such that the motor and air flow generate noise at an acceptable level while the user's hands are located within the air stream.
The control circuit 1702 may further be configured to provide interlocks in dispensing air from the fixture 1100. For example, if the air dryer is active, it may be desirable to prevent water from being dispensed such that it is not blown around the basin. Further, it may be desirable to require a user to remove their hands from beneath the air outlet and stop dispensing air prior to dispensing water. A maximum duration may also be configured for which the air outlet may dispense air without requiring the user to remove and reinsert their hands beneath the air outlet. This prevents continued dispensing of air if the user leaves their hands under the air outlet for an extended period of time or if, for example, a foreign object falls in the basin 1020 under the fixture 1100 proximate the air outlet.
As shown in
Each approach sensor 1770 generates a feedback signal 1772 to the control circuit 1702. For example, the control circuit 702 may use the approach signal 1772 to bring the lavatory system 1010 and fixture 1100 out of a power-saving state or may prepare the lavatory system 1010 and fixture 1100 for use. In the power saving state, a portion of the control circuit 1702 may be de-energized. When the approach signal 1772 is detected, the lavatory system 1010 and fixture 1100 may energize the entire control circuit 1702 in anticipation of use. Similarly, the control circuit 702 may energize a heater, if present, to begin warming air for delivery to a user. According to yet another example, the visual indicators 1705 on the fixture 1100 may be energized in response to receiving the approach signal 1772. Still other actions may be taken in response to the approach signal 1772 at the control circuit 1702 that will speed the user's hand washing experience.
It is further contemplated that a user may enter a configuration mode for the lavatory system 1010 and fixture 1100 by inserting the user's hands under the sensors 1701 in a predefined sequence. The sequence is selected to avoid accidental entry of the configuration mode during normal operation of the lavatory system 1010 and fixture 1100. For example, the sequence may require placing the right hand under a first sensor and a left hand under a second sensor where the right hand is inserted ahead of the left hand by less than a second. Both hands are then held under the sensors for at least ten seconds. According to another example, the sequence may require activating each sensor 1701 in sequence from left-to-right or right-to-left multiple times in succession and subsequently holding a hand under one of the sensors 1701 for a predefined time. Still other sequences may be used without deviating from the scope of the invention. Once the lavatory system 1010 and fixture 100 has entered configuration mode, each of the visual indicators 1705 may provide an indication to the user of the configuration mode. For example, the indicators 1705 may turn to a unique color designating configuration mode.
The user then continues to configure the lavatory system 1010 and fixture 1100 by further passing the user's hands under different sensors 1701. The user may first select which system to configure, that is whether the user wishes to configure the soap dispensing system, the water dispensing system, or the air dispensing system. A particular system may be selected by inserting the user's hands under a sensor 1701 proximate to the respective outlet. For example, to configure the water dispensing system, the user may insert a hand under a sensor 1701 proximate the water outlet and to configure the air dispensing system, the user may insert a hand under a sensor 1701 proximate the air outlet. The visual indicator 1705 proximate the selected system may remain the color identifying configuration mode and begin to flash to indicate that the particular system has been selected. Optionally, the lavatory system 1010 may contain a predefined number of parameters that are configurable via the sensors 1701 and the user may increment or decrement through each parameter by inserting a hand under one of the sensors 1701. Identification of the parameter may occur by briefly activating the device to be configured or by flashing a parameter number on the visual indicators.
Once a system or a particular parameter has been selected, the user again inserts a hand under one of the sensors 1701. It is contemplated that a first sensor 701 may be utilized to choose a parameter for configuration and a second sensor 1701 may be utilized to change the setting of the parameter. The parameter preferably has a predefined set of settings. For example, the motor for the fan may have a low, medium, and high-speed setting. Each time a user inserts a hand under the second sensor 1701 the setting of the parameter increments or decrements to the next setting. The lavatory system 1010 and fixture 1100 may briefly activate the motor so that the user may observe the air flow resulting from the selected motor speed and determine which setting is desired.
Although the best mode contemplated by the inventors of carrying out the present invention is disclosed above, practice of the present invention is not limited thereto. It will be manifest that various additions, modifications and rearrangements of the features of the present invention may be made without deviating from the spirit and scope of the underlying inventive concept.
Moreover, the individual components need not be formed in the disclosed shapes, or assembled in the disclosed configuration, but could be provided in virtually any shape, and assembled in virtually any configuration. Furthermore, all the disclosed features of each disclosed embodiment can be combined with, or substituted for, the disclosed features of every other disclosed embodiment except where such features are mutually exclusive.
It is intended that the appended claims cover all such additions, modifications and rearrangements. Expedient embodiments of the present invention are differentiated by the appended claims.
This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 17/398,693, filed on Aug. 10, 2021, which is a continuation-in-part of and claims priority to now pending U.S. application Ser. No. 16/245,937, filed on Jan. 11, 2019, which is a continuation in-part of and claims priority to issued U.S. Pat. No. 10,697,160, filed on Aug. 7, 2018 and issued on Jun. 30, 2020, which is a continuation in-part of and claims priority to issued U.S. Pat. No. 10,041,236, filed on Jun. 8, 2016 and issued on Aug. 7, 2018, the entire contents of each of the above are hereby expressly incorporated by reference into the present application. U.S. application Ser. No. 16/245,937, to which this application claims priority, is also a continuation-in-part of and claims priority to U.S. Pat. No. D847,305, filed on Feb. 10, 2017 and issued on Apr. 30, 2019, the entire contents of which are hereby expressly incorporated by reference into the present application. U.S. application Ser. No. 17/398,693, filed on Aug. 10, 2021, also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/209,260, filed on Jun. 10, 2021, the entire contents of which are hereby expressly incorporated by reference into the present application.
| Number | Name | Date | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10030371 | Ciavarella | Jul 2018 | B2 |
| 11185875 | Koehler | Nov 2021 | B2 |
| 11542692 | Loberger | Jan 2023 | B2 |
| 20210363737 | Loberger | Nov 2021 | A1 |
| Number | Date | Country |
|---|---|---|
| 2598791 | Mar 2022 | GB |
| 20220071828 | May 2022 | KR |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20230135577 A1 | May 2023 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63209260 | Jun 2021 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 17398693 | Aug 2021 | US |
| Child | 18090663 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 16245937 | Jan 2019 | US |
| Child | 17398693 | US | |
| Parent | 16057220 | Aug 2018 | US |
| Child | 16245937 | US | |
| Parent | 15176406 | Jun 2016 | US |
| Child | 16057220 | US | |
| Parent | 29593674 | Feb 2017 | US |
| Child | 16245937 | US |
