Class / Patent application number | Description | Number of patent applications / Date published |
004623000 | With proximity operated valve | 35 |
20080289098 | Plumbing Fixture - Disclosed is a plumbing fixture including an electrically actuated valve by means of which a water flow that penetrates the plumbing fixture can be turned on and off. A first switch that is embodied as a proximity switch is used for opening the valve and thus starting the water flow. The inventive plumbing fixture additionally comprises a mechanically actuated operator's element which is used for regulating another function of the plumbing fixture, such as the water temperature or the water quantity. A second switch that is used for electrically blocking the first switch is assigned to the mechanically actuated operator's element. For this purpose, the second switch is disposed so as to respond when the additional operator's element is manipulated. | 11-27-2008 |
20090000023 | Fluid dispenser having infrared user sensor - A dispensing system is disclosed which utilizes a controller in conjunction with a photodetector in order to provide automatic dispensing to a user when an object enters a target area. A controller is programmed to pulse a light source that is mounted proximate the photodetector. The controller constantly monitors the voltage at the receiving signal of the photodetector, and evaluates the difference in voltage from the light pulsed on and off. The controller sums the differences, and constantly updates the differences over a designated period to create an average difference value. The average difference value is summed with a target offset value and compared to a momentary voltage difference. When the momentary difference exceeds the sum of the target offset value and average difference, the controller sends a signal to a dispense mechanism which dispenses a fluid or other product on the object. | 01-01-2009 |
20090031493 | WATER DISCHARGE SYSTEM - There is provided a water discharge system. A water discharge system includes a water discharge portion; a sensor unit which acquires movement information about an object based on a radiated electric wave, and outputs a detecting signal; and a control unit which controls water discharge of the water discharge portion based on the detecting signal. When it is detected that the object is decelerated to a first threshold velocity or less, the control unit controls the water discharge portion to start the water discharge. | 02-05-2009 |
20090049599 | Passive sensors for automatic faucets and bathroom flushers - The present invention is directed to novel optical sensors and novel methods for sensing optical radiation. The novel optical sensors and the novel optical sensing methods are used, for example, for controlling the operation of automatic faucets and flushers. The novel sensors and flow controllers (including control electronics and valves) require only small amounts of electrical power for sensing users of bathroom facilities, and thus enable battery operation for many years. A passive optical sensor includes a light detector sensitive to ambient (room) light for controlling the operation of automatic faucets or automatic bathroom flushers. | 02-26-2009 |
20090056011 | Electronic Faucet with Voice, Temperature, Flow and Volume Control - An ergonomic water conserving faucet assembly that pivots around a cognitive central point providing touchless water temperature, flow rate, volume control and spray pattern adjustment through multiple, hygienic means. The assembly comprises a pivotable, ergonomic, ball-shaped spout that may be used statically or hand held; a retractable water delivery hose connecting the spout to a water source; a water mixing valve at the water source delivering water of preselected temperature; solenoid valves controlling flow; proximity and object detection sensors mapping the sink area and detecting input signals; speech sensors with microphone for voice control; an LED display of water temperature; internal speakers delivering audible prompts; and an electronic controller recognizing speech and supervising operations. | 03-05-2009 |
20090077736 | Lavatory System - A lavatory system is disclosed to include one or more integrated hand washing stations. Each hand washing station includes a basin, a faucet, a solenoid valve configured to control water flow to the faucet, and a electric hand dryer located adjacent the basin and the faucet so that the user of the washing station may use the faucet and the electric hand dryer without leaving the washing station. The electric hand dryer preferably includes an outlet to direct air across the associated basin so that any water that drips from the user's hands will fall within the basin. A control system may be provided to control activation of the fixtures such as the solenoid valve, the electric hand dryer, and/or soap dispenser. The control system may be configured, for example, to inhibit simultaneous activation of the solenoid valve and the hand dryer. A photovoltaic system may be provided to provide power to one or more of electrical fixtures. | 03-26-2009 |
20090094740 | Automatic water faucet built-in with hot and cold water control valve - Automatic water faucet in accordance with the present invention comprises main body is formed with outlet and hot and cold water inlets; hot and cold water flow control valve is built in the upper part of main body and selects and controls hot and cold water flow rate; control handle for adjustment of hot and cold water flow control valve; object detector device is installed in front of main body and comprises light generator and receiver, operation indicator lamp, circuit board; electronic valve is installed and connected to the bottom of hot and cold water flow control valve automatically opens or closes outlet in accordance with the detector signal of object detector part; battery power supply supplies power to object detector part and electronic valve; and manual emergency lever is installed on the bottom of main body to be able to be rotated to enforce operation of electronic valve manually. | 04-16-2009 |
20090100593 | AUTOMATIC HAND WASHING SYSTEM - The present invention provides an automatic hand washing system for original and retrofit residential and commercial installation and use. The automatic hand washing system dispenses a predetermined amount of soap and water to effectively clean the hands of a user in a short, predetermined amount of time, ensuring that sanitary protocols are followed while conserving natural resources. In this respect, the automatic hand washing system represents an automatic hand washing protocol compliance control system. Advantageously, the automatic hand washing system isolates the soap delivery path from the water delivery path until each is delivered to the hands of the user, preventing self-contamination, allowing the proper viscosity and flow of each to be maintained, eliminating the need for inefficient internal mixing mechanisms, etc. Advantageously, the automatic hand washing system also identifies and certifies the soap source being utilized, such that the integrity of the hand washing process is ensured and a revenue stream for the manufacturer of the automatic hand washing system and/or the provider of the soap source is maintained. | 04-23-2009 |
20090119832 | Flow Control Apparatus And Method - The present invention relates to a touch or proximity sensitive device, specifically one which controls characteristics such as the temperature and flow rate of water or other liquids. An apparatus for controlling a flow characteristic of a flowing liquid by a user, the apparatus comprising a two-dimensional control surface for sensing the proximity of a user in two dimensions, means for determining a position of the user, and means for controlling the characteristic of the liquid responsive to said determining. | 05-14-2009 |
20090293192 | Apparatus and system for automatic activation and de-activation of water flow - The present invention comprises an apparatus and system for automatic activation and de-activation of water flow to a sink, bathtub, shower, or similar plumbing fixture. It can be readily installed and operated safely using AC or DC power of varying voltage, even in locations in which electrical power sources are unreliable, inconsistent, or unstable. | 12-03-2009 |
20100071126 | FAUCET CONTROLLED IN A CONTACTLESS MANNER - The faucet has a fitting body, which has a base ( | 03-25-2010 |
20100101017 | EASY MAINTENANCE SENSING TYPE AUTOMATIC FAUCET - A faucet includes a mounting unit and a valve unit. The mounting unit includes a fixed seat and a rotatable seat rotatable relative to the fixed seat. The fixed seat is formed with a plurality of inverted L-shaped retaining hooks. The valve unit includes a housing, a coupling member disposed in the housing, a valve seat, an electromagnetic valve, and an infrared sensor. The coupling member includes a plurality of L-shaped retaining grooves engaging respectively the retaining hooks. The retaining hooks can be removed from the retaining grooves to allow for maintenance and replacement of the valve unit. | 04-29-2010 |
20100287695 | VALVE APPARATUS AND SYSTEM - The present invention includes a hands free faucet system and a valve configured for delivery of water in a predetermined temperature and volume. The valve can include a first body portion having a first inlet port and a first outlet port connected to the first water line, a second body portion connected to the first body portion and having a second inlet port, a second outlet port, a third inlet port third outlet port. The valve can also include at least a first selectively positionable gate defining a first opening and a second opening and disposed adjacent to the second outlet port and the third outlet port such that in response to the first selectively positionable gate being positioned in a first position, water of a predetermined temperature will flow from at least one of the second outlet port and the third outlet port. | 11-18-2010 |
20110010845 | INDUCTIVE FAUCET OF WHICH A DETECTION RANGE IS ADJUSTABLE - An inductive faucet of which a detection range is adjustable is provided, in which two transmitter units, one receiver unit, and one controller unit are arranged on a faucet body. The controller unit is used to automatically adjust the strength of signal transmitted by the transmitter unit for obtaining a preferable detection range; thus, the incorrect judgment rate may decrease significantly and further power waste caused by the extremely long detection range may be avoided. Particularly, regarding the inductive faucet provided with a battery used as a power source, the battery life may even be prolonged and the frequency of battery replacement may decrease. | 01-20-2011 |
20110083263 | FRONT FLOW LAVATORY - A lavatory is disclosed which dispenses water from its front side. The lavatory comprises a single body with a concavity for receiving water and a faucet port on the front side through which water may flow into the concavity. A solenoid valve, which is located underneath the sink body, receives water from a water supply and, when actuated, supplies water to the concavity of the sink body via the faucet port. Actuation of the solenoid valve is effected by one or more proximity switches which detect when a user is in proximity to the front side of the lavatory. The lavatory may also comprise a mixer valve which is located underneath the sink body and which is interposed between the water supply and the solenoid valve. The mixer valve functions to receive hot and cold water inputs from the water supply, to combine those hot and cold water inputs and to the combined hot and cold water to the solenoid valve. | 04-14-2011 |
20110185493 | TOUCH FREE AUTOMATIC FAUCET - A touch free automatic faucet is provided. The faucet includes a faucet housing including many sensors for controlling water flow and water temperature. A processor is connected to the sensors. A first control valve assembly is connected to the processor. A second control valve assembly is connected to the processor. A power source is connected to the processor, the first control valve assembly and the second control valve assembly. Water flow and water temperature are controlled by the sensors without touching of the faucet housing. | 08-04-2011 |
20120131744 | LAVATORY SYSTEM - A lavatory is provided. The lavatory includes at least one wash station, at least one electrically operated fixture associated with the wash station, a control system configured to control a flow of a fluid through the at least one electrically operated fixture, a power source selectively coupled to the control system, and a power management system coupled to the power source to control the power provided to the control system. The power management system includes a detector configured to monitor the output voltage of the power source, and a switch configured to electrically disconnect the power source from the control system when the output voltage of the power source drops below a predetermined level. | 05-31-2012 |
20120137426 | Automatic water flow controller for faucet - An automatic water flow controller includes a detecting device coupled to a processing device for detecting an approaching of a user, a control device having a control valve coupled to a water supplying pipe, an electric energy storing device having a capacitor coupled to the control device, and an electric generating device having an electric generator coupled to the water supplying pipe for being actuated by the water to generate and supply an electric energy to charge the capacitor, the processing device actuates the control valve to open the water supplying pipe and to operate the electric generating device and to generate the electric energy when a voltage in the capacitor is less than a predetermined value. | 06-07-2012 |
20120255116 | WATER DELIVERY SYSTEM WITH NON-CONTACT USER-OPERATED CONTROL - A water delivery system operable hands-free by, for example, a foot-operated pedal controller, or a non-contact controller, such as a presence and voice actuated circuit that are operatively connected through a power source, transmission and valve assembly in cooperation with a water spout at a water basin or bowl. | 10-11-2012 |
20120260418 | Lavatory System with Overflow Prevention and Other Features - Systems and methods for a lavatory system are described that include a bidirectional hand dryer having a top, bottom, back, and right side and multiple sensors and LEDs. Upper and lower nozzles are also provided and respectively connected to upper and lower plenums. At least two flexible air delivery hoses are connected to the plenums. A motor housing is provided and includes a motor, ports connected to the hoses, noise abatement features, and a motor microcontroller. A hand-receiving cavity exists between the top, back, right, and bottom side for receiving at least one hand of a user. Tips are connected to the nozzles and emit high speed colliding columns of air to shear water off of the user's hand. The columns of air are spaced and calibrated in such a way as to reduce forces on the user's hand which would otherwise move the hand toward the side surfaces. | 10-18-2012 |
20120297534 | AUTOMATIC FAUCET - A cylindrical water spout member is provided inside the tip section of the water spout pipe, the optical fiber on the light projection side and the optical fiber on the light receiving side are passed inside the water spout pipe up to the tip section of the water spout pipe, and the tips of the optical fibers configure a light projection section and a light receiving section. Moreover, fitting convex section are provided on the outer surfaces of the tip sections of the optical fibers, and the fitting concave sections are provided on the outer surface of the water spout member. The tip sections of the optical fibers are fixed in a positioned state based on the concave-convex fitting. | 11-29-2012 |
20130067657 | Automatic faucet - An automatic faucet contains a body including a spout; a spray head mounted on the spout to be pulled outward or retracted inward; an optical detecting device fixed on the spout to detect a hand of a user and to transmit a digital signal; wherein between a transmitting direction of an infrared ray and a water flowing direction of the spray head is formed an angle, and the angle is between 150 to 190 degrees; a controlling device to receive the digital signal of the optical detecting device and to control the water to flow out of the spray head. | 03-21-2013 |
20130067658 | Lavatory System - A lavatory system is disclosed including one or more integrated hand washing stations. Each hand washing station includes a basin, a faucet, a solenoid valve configured to control water flow to the faucet, and an electric hand dryer located adjacent the basin and the faucet so that the user of the washing station may use the faucet and the electric hand dryer without leaving the washing station. The electric hand dryer preferably includes an outlet to direct air across the associated basin so that any water that drips from the user's hands fall within the basin. A control system may be provided to control activation of the fixtures such as the solenoid valve, the electric hand dryer, and/or soap dispenser. The control system may be configured to inhibit simultaneous activation of the solenoid valve and the hand dryer. A photovoltaic system may be provided to provide power. | 03-21-2013 |
20130086741 | Hand Dryer with Point of Ingress Dependent Air Delay and Filter Sensor - A lavatory system includes a hand dryer with at least a first proximity sensor and a second proximity sensor to detect an object for drying. A controller is communicatively linked to the first and second proximity sensors. The controller activates a drying operation after a first delay period if the first proximity sensor first detects the object for drying and activates a drying operation after a second delay period if the second proximity sensor first detects the object for drying. A filter flow sensor may also be provided to ensure proper filtering of the dryer's air. | 04-11-2013 |
20130160202 | AUTOMATIC FAUCET - Provided is an automatic faucet using a radio wave sensor, which is capable of preventing erroneous stop of water spouting, with a simple configuration. The automatic faucet ( | 06-27-2013 |
20130219614 | CAPACITIVE SENSING FOR WASHROOM FIXTURE - A capacitive sensing system and method for a hand washing lavatory system is disclosed. The lavatory system comprises a receptacle defining a hand washing area, a fixture configured to deliver water to the receptacle, and a capacitive sensing system configured to detect the presence of a user and actuate the fixture. The capacitive sensing system comprises a first sense electrode coupled to the receptacle and configured to measure a first capacitive value, a second sense electrode coupled to the receptacle spaced apart from the first sense electrode and configured to measure a second capacitive value, and a circuit configured to control operation of the fixture in response to a change in the first capacitive value relative to the second capacitive value. | 08-29-2013 |
20140338118 | FAUCET HANDLE WITH ANGLED INTERFACE - A faucet assembly including a handle that rotates about a rotational axis extending perpendicular to an angled interface for adjusting a water parameter. | 11-20-2014 |
20150052677 | TOUCH-FREE WATER-CONTROL SYSTEM - A system and method of Touch Free Automatic faucet controlled by electronic sensors provides a Primary-Water-Flow-Mode, a Continue-Water-Flow-Mode, a Temperature-Control-Mode, a Faucet-Pause-Mode, an Adjust-Water-Flow-Mode and a Flow-Temperature-Default-Setting-Mode for users to control faucet water flow and water temperature without touching any parts of faucet body. The system comprises at least three electronic sensors, a logical processor circuit board, an electricity power supply package, a water flow control valve assembly, a temperature control valve assembly, at least one faucet body housing and at least one inlet fluid line. From the outputs of the sensors, the logical processor responds to the flow control valve assembly and to the temperature control valve assembly to control water flow and temperature to the faucet spout. | 02-26-2015 |
20160040405 | KITCHEN FITTING AND OPERATING METHOD - A kitchen fitting ( | 02-11-2016 |
20160060854 | TWO-DISTANCE TOUCH FREE AUTOMATIC TYPE WATER SUPPLY DEVICE AND METHOD - A two-distance touch free automatic type water supply method includes: when a sensor senses an appearance of an external object at a first distance from the sensor, the sensing signal is an open signal, whereby water of the outlet is supplied; when the sensor senses a disappearance of the external object at the first distance from the sensor, the sensing signal is a closed signal, whereby water of the outlet is not supplied; when the sensor senses a first appearance and a first disappearance of the external object at a second distance from the sensor, the sensing signal is an open signal, whereby water of the outlet is supplied; and when the sensor senses a second appearance and a second disappearance of the external object at the second distance from the sensor, the sensing signal is a closed signal, whereby water of the outlet is not supplied. | 03-03-2016 |
20160076232 | TOUCH FREE AUTOMATIC TYPE WATER SUPPLY DEVICE AND METHOD - A touch free automatic type water supply device includes: a shell; first to third sensors adapted to sense an external object and then generate first to third sensing signals, respectively, wherein the first sensor is adapted to sense the external object located in a front direction of the shell, only the second sensor is adapted to sense the external object located in a side direction of the shell, and only the third sensor is adapted to sense the external object located in another side direction of the shell; an electronic control unit adapted receiving the first to third sensing signals and then generating driving signals, respectively; and a flow control unit, wherein according to the driving signals the flow control unit controls whether water is supplied, whether the flow rate of the supplied water is changed, or whether the supplied water temperature is changed. | 03-17-2016 |
20160083943 | PERSON-DETECTING SENSOR AND AUTOMATIC WATER FAUCET - A person-detecting sensor includes: a range-finding unit that decides whether a distance to a detection object falls within a predetermined detection distance range; a received-light quantity decision unit that decides whether a received-light quantity is equal to or greater than a predetermined received-light quantity threshold; and a continuation decision unit that decides whether a state of the detection object being present is ongoing. In the received-light quantity decision unit, after water discharge is started upon the detection determination unit determining a detection object to be under detection state, for a period during which the continuation decision unit decides the state in which the detection object being present is ongoing, the received-light quantity threshold is set to be lower than prior to when the water discharge is started. | 03-24-2016 |
20160084959 | PERSON-DETECTING SENSOR AND AUTOMATIC WATER FAUCET - A person-detecting sensor includes: a range-finding unit that decides whether distance to a detection object falls within a predetermined detection distance range; and a specular reflection decision unit that decides whether reflected light is specularly-reflected light. The specular reflection decision unit performs a threshold determination regarding the count of pixels or the proportion of pixels exhibiting a received-light quantity of a predetermined proportion or greater with respect to the maximum received-light quantity among received-light quantities from the reflected light and decides that the reflected light is specularly-reflected light when the count of the pixels or the proportion of the pixels is a predetermined threshold or less. | 03-24-2016 |
20190145087 | ACTUATING DEVICE | 05-16-2019 |
20220136224 | ELECTRONIC PULL-OUT FAUCET - An electronic pull-out faucet includes a faucet body, a pull-out hose, a pull-out spray head, a solenoid valve, and a magnetic switch assembly. A magnet of the magnetic switch assembly is fitted to an outlet end of the pull-out hose. Compared with the prior art, there is no need for the pull-out hose to be a two-section hose for installing the magnet. The structure of the pull-out hose is simplified, and the assembly is simpler. | 05-05-2022 |