Abstract: A lavatory system includes a countertop, a fixture, and a soap system mounted to the countertop adjacent the fixture. The fixture includes at least one leg, a first passage and a second passage distributed through the at least one leg, and an extension section extending from the at least one leg. A first tube carrying water extends through one of the first passage and the second passage, while a second tube carrying soap extends through one of the first passage and the second passage. The soap system includes a mounting component within an orifice of the countertop, a refill port extending through the mounting component to a soap container below the countertop, a cap over the refill port, and a soap pump to transmit soap from the soap container to the second tube of the fixture. A mounting bracket is secured below the countertop to support the soap container.

Abstract: A fabric treating appliance includes a cabinet defining an interior and having a top wall defining an access opening. A cover is provided that is movable relative to the cabinet between an open position and a closed position to selectively close the access opening. A tub is located within the interior and includes and open top aligned with the access opening. A rotatable basket is located within the tub and has a loading opening aligned with the open top and the access opening. A top wall extends between the cabinet and the tub. A scrubbing tool seat recessed in the top wall.

Abstract: A wearable computing device may be used to track the efficacy of one or more cleaning actions performed. The device can include one or more sensors that detect and measure motion associated with a cleaning event. In different examples, the movement data generated by the device can be compared to reference movement data to determine if the individual has cleaned all the objects they were expected to clean and/or if the individual has cleaned a given object sufficiently well. As another example, the movement data generated by the device can be analyzed to distinguish cleaning and non-cleaning movement actions as well as to distinguish different types of cleaning actions during cleaning movement. The quality of each cleaning action can be evaluated. In any configuration, the device may perform an operation in response to determining that ineffective cleaning is being performed, causing corrected cleaning action to be performed.

Abstract: A lavatory system includes a countertop, a fixture, and a soap system mounted to the countertop adjacent the fixture. The fixture includes at least one leg, a first passage and a second passage distributed through the at least one leg, and an extension section extending from the at least one leg. A first tube carrying water extends through one of the first passage and the second passage, while a second tube carrying soap extends through one of the first passage and the second passage. The soap system includes a mounting component within an orifice of the countertop, a refill port extending through the mounting component to a soap container below the countertop, a cap over the refill port, and a soap pump to transmit soap from the soap container to the second tube of the fixture. A mounting bracket is secured below the countertop to support the soap container.

Abstract: This apparatus can detect a user proximity to handwashing stations by electronic mechanism of proximity sensing with radio tags and anonymously tracking tagless users. It can also guide them through proper approved hand washing hygiene steps through visual/auditory cues, can track Users time/proximity in following hand hygiene guidance, and can communicate User handwashing data to a remote database from which data can be accessed.

Abstract: A wearable computing device may be used to track the efficacy of one or more cleaning actions performed. The device can include one or more sensors that detect and measure motion associated with a cleaning event. In different examples, the movement data generated by the device can be compared to reference movement data to determine if the individual has cleaned all the objects they were expected to clean and/or if the individual has cleaned a given object sufficiently well. As another example, the movement data generated by the device can be analyzed to distinguish cleaning and non-cleaning movement actions as well as to distinguish different types of cleaning actions during cleaning movement. The quality of each cleaning action can be evaluated. In any configuration, the device may perform an operation in response to determining that ineffective cleaning is being performed, causing corrected cleaning action to be performed.

Abstract: A fluid dispenser includes a dispensation conduit and a refill conduit. A refill system includes a refill reservoir and a refill distribution conduit. The refill distribution conduit is configured for selective fluid coupling with the refill conduit to facilitate refilling of the fluid dispenser.

Abstract: Systems and methods for a multi-function lavatory fixture are disclosed. The lavatory fixture includes a first and second leg, where a first end of each leg is configured to be mounted to a deck and a second end of each leg is located over a basin of the lavatory fixture. A connecting section extends between the second ends of each leg and includes outlets to dispense water and soap to wash a user's hands. The fixture also includes indicators located proximate each of the outlets to indicate to the user the location of each outlet. A sensor located near each outlet identifies the presence of a user's hands near the outlet and dispenses water and soap, accordingly. A controller within the lavatory fixture receives inputs from each sensor and activates the appropriate pump or valve to deliver the desired product at the appropriate outlet.

Abstract: A water dispenser assembly for a hand washing station includes a water heater having a water tank and a heating element configured to heat water contained in the water tank, the water tank having an inlet conduit connected to a water source and an outlet conduit, a water outlet connected to the outlet conduit and configured to receive water from the water heater through the outlet conduit, and a valve in fluid communication with the water heater and configured to selectively permit the water to be forced from the water tank and through the water outlet to dispense the water. The hand washing station may include a computer device configured for controlling components of the station.

Abstract: A sink with an integrally formed an inconspicuous storage space including a storage shelf. The sink has a basin portion and a niche that is integrally formed into the basin and extends substantially along the basin widthwise. The niche is an open area surrounded by three walls including a substantially horizontal floor that forms a substantially horizontal shelf, a substantially vertical wall, and a substantially horizontal ceiling disposed above the floor. The shelf may be used to store dishwashing accessories such as sponges and pads, and other items. The niche is aesthetically pleasing because it is not viewable from the front of the sink and can be seen only from the interior of the sink.

Abstract: A fabric treating appliance having a cabinet with an interior and having a top wall defining an access opening. A cover is provided that is movable relative to the cabinet between an open position and a closed position to selectively close the access opening. A shroud extends between the cabinet and the tub. A scrubbing tool seat is located in one of the top wall and the shroud and a scrubbing tool is removably disposed in a scrubbing tool seat.

Abstract: An electronic faucet is provided comprising a spout; a fluid supply conduit supported by the spout; a valve assembly including a solenoid valve positioned to control fluid flow through the fluid supply conduit, the solenoid valve including a solenoid coil and a moveable valve member operably coupled to the solenoid coil; and a controller operative to control the solenoid valve, the controller including a circuit board coupled to the valve assembly and a processor mounted to the circuit board to control the solenoid valve, the solenoid coil being mounted to the circuit board.

Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a system comprising a faucet. The faucet can comprise a discharge assembly. The discharge assembly can comprise a middle column. The middle column can comprise a pump activator, which can be constructed to cause the middle column to dispense a liquid soap responsive to user compression.

Abstract: A modular instrument kit configured to receive a plurality of instrument trays therein. At least one of the trays includes a planar base, a rear wall orientated at an angle relative to the base, a flange, and an instrument support configured to support a plurality of surgical instruments. The at least one tray is configured to be seated on a generally planar surface in a free-standing position to support the plurality of surgical instruments such that tips of the instruments extend upward so as to be readily viewable in an operating room. The at least one tray is configured to be hung from a generally vertical surface with the rear wall generally flush against a first surface of the generally vertical surface and the flange in contact with a second surface of the generally vertical surface that is opposite to the first surface.

Abstract: A sink is provided. The sink includes a basin having a first side wall, an opposite second side wall and a front wall. The sink also includes a rim supported at and extending outwardly from an upper end of the first and second side walls in a substantially horizontal orientation. The sink further includes an apron extending vertically below the rim and laterally between a first end and an opposite second end to define a front portion of the sink. The first end of the apron extends outwardly past the rim associated with the first side wall and the second end of the apron extends outwardly past the rim associated with the second side wall.

Abstract: A concealed soap dispenser comprising: a sink having a sink drain and an overflow opening; an overflow housing secured within the overflow opening, the overflow housing including an inlet to allow fluid to enter a chamber within the overflow housing and an outlet to allow fluid to exit the chamber within the overflow housing; an overflow drain conduit secured by its proximal end to the overflow housing and secured by its distal end to the sink drain wherein fluid may exit the overflow housing and flow through the lumen and into the sink drain; and a soap dispenser secured within the overflow housing.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A portable hand washing station is provided. The station has a durable carrying case which defines an interior hand washing compartment. The front wall is adapted to include a door to permit hand access into the interior of the hand washing compartment. A lid is connected to the case so that the lid is capable of extending in an upright vertical position. A shelf is connected to the interior surface of the lid. The shelf has a pair of spaced apart valve openings. A pair of liquid dispensing reservoirs is supported on the shelf. Each of the reservoirs includes a top wall with a mouth opening, a bottom wall with a drain opening, and a touch operated flow valve connected to the bottom wall in liquid communication to the bottom wall. The flow valves are adapted to extend in axial alignment a one of the valve openings so that a cleaning or rinsing solution is dispensed into the compartment when the flow valves are deflected by hand.

Abstract: An example shower assembly includes a mount for removeably securing and supporting an accessory item to a shower wall. The mounts are permanently attached to the shower wall and are spaced apart a set desired distance. Slots on the accessory item receive the mounts to support the accessory item firmly and substantially rigidly to the shower wall. Removal of the accessory item is performed by lifting to allow installation of another accessory item as desired.

Abstract: The invention concerns equipment for use at a carwash. The equipment can be used to wash any vehicle, as well as boats (on trailers) and anything else that can be brought into its vicinity. The equipment comprises a wash stand incorporating a basin sized to receive a car washing sponge. The equipment has an inlet valve to fill the basin, an outlet valve to empty the basin, and a control system to perform a wash sequence as follows: closing the outlet valve; opening the inlet valve to selectively fill the basin with water or a mixture of water and cleaning agent; then, periodically opening the inlet valve to top up the basin with water or a mixture of water and cleaning agent; finally, opening the outlet valve to empty the basin. All the steps of the wash sequence are performed according to a predetermined timing schedule.

Abstract: A liquid aroma injector for a spa having a reservoir comprising an upper chamber, a lower chamber, and a subchamber, a plunger assembly comprising a plunger button, a shaft, and an annular flanged gasket. The shaft extends through said upper and lower chamber of the reservoir. The liquid aroma injector further comprises a hose through which liquid aroma travels to the liquid aroma diffuser that releases liquid aroma into the water of a spa.

Abstract: A structure mountable soap disk having a back wall support portion and a downwardly cantilevered bar soap receptacle portion with the soap bar receptacle portion having side and front wall with at least one aperture for water to drain therethrough.

Abstract: A removable and interchangeable soap dish and/or other fixture which has a wall mount segment having a male connector with screw holes. The mount is L-shaped with the wall side and connector both rectangular shaped and connected perpendicularly. Protruding out from the mount and perpendicular to the male connector is a handle. The mount is attached to any wall using standard screws which fit into the screw holes. A female slot which is shaped and designed to receive the male connector is molded inside the fixture. A securing devise at the end of the slot allows the male end to slide in then lock into place. Attach the fixture to the wall mount by lining up the female slot and male connector and apply pressure to push them together. The locking device is deactivated by applying minimum pressure to the fixture as it is pulled away from the mount.

Abstract: A restroom monitoring system for monitoring attributes of fixtures within a restroom using sensors. Additional attributes are determined from the monitored attributes. Consumable usage levels are estimated based on predetermined consumption levels associated with usage states of the fixtures. The restroom monitoring system provides an indication of the need for replenishment of consumables based on the monitored attributes of the fixtures. In addition, restroom monitoring system may provide additional information regarding the restroom attributes to a service provider, a manager or a user.

Abstract: The present invention provides a soap dispenser (11) for use with a fluid outlet, such as a tap (15). The soap dispenser (11) comprises a soap holder (213) for holding a soap cartridge. The soap holder comprises at least one upper aperture in an upper region through which fluid enters the soap holder, and at least one lower aperture in a lower region through which fluid exits the soap holder. The soap holder incorporates at least one diverting section (25) to divert any fluid moving in an upward direction back into the holder. The soap dispenser also comprises a connection arrangement for connecting the soap holder with respect to the fluid outlet. In use the soap holder is positioned underneath the fluid outlet such that fluid enters the holder through the at least one upper aperture. The fluid then passes over the soap cartridge and exits through the at least one lower aperture to provide a user with a soapy fluid.

Abstract: A portable brushing station for encouraging good brushing habits in children includes a cabinet assembly having a countertop and a concave sink with a portable water supply and removable drainage unit. Additionally, the portable brushing station can include a removable sink and drain combination which can be easily cleaned after each use. Additionally, the portable brushing station can include an instructional and entertainment unit for interactively teaching children proper brushing habits.

Abstract: An oral hygiene station (10) for children has a portable, hand held body (12), and a suction cup (26) for releasably mounting the body to a vanity unit. The body (12) has a basin (16) and a lid (18) hingedly connected thereto for opening and closing the basin. The basin has slots (20) each of which can receive therethrough the shaft of a toothbrush. The basin also has a mouth wash cup holder (22). The lid (18) has a mirror (24) supported on its inside surface so that a child using the oral hygiene station (10) can see themselves in the mirror when the lid is opened.

Abstract: An apparatus for washing hands and/or fingernails includes a brush assembly attached to a water faucet. The brush assembly includes a backplane with two opposed brushes attached to the backplane such that the bristles on each brush face outward from the backplane. A clamping mechanism removable attaches the brush assembly to the faucet. The clamping mechanism is pivotable on the faucet so the user can move the brush assembly into the water stream to use the brushes and out of the water stream for rinsing.

Abstract: A insulated cooler includes a thermally insulated storage compartment and a water storage chamber mounted thereon and preferably formed integrally therewith. A water spout communicates with the water storage chamber to permit water to flow from the storage chamber for washing hands and the like when in areas without running water. A soap dispenser is mounted on the cooler to facilitate the washing process. An external carrier may also be mounted on the cooler for carrying various items which do not need to be stored within the insulated storage compartment.

Abstract: Soap bar holders having a receiver with walls having inner surfaces which converge and include support features that engage with peripheral portions of a soap bar and hold it in a suspended position across the receiver interior chamber. The receiver is preferably provided with vents which allow air to dry a wet soap bar. The vents may also include multiple vent passages extending through the receiver walls thereby further facilitating drying of the soap bar. The receiver support features may be configured in different shapes. The soap holder may further include a drip catcher in a bottom wall of the receiver to hold any soap and water which may drip from the soap bar. There may also be a base upon to which the receiver sits and it may alternatively be integrated into a sink or other washing fixture.

Abstract: A dispenser, more particularly, a hand cleaner dispenser incorporating a reader for a user's hand in the form of a palm reader which avoids the need for contact between the user's hand and the dispenser yet provides opportunity for the monitoring of usage including determining the identities of users.

Abstract: A utility tub is provided with a sink area having support surfaces for removably supporting a tray. The tray may hold items that are drying. In addition, the utility tub may be provided with an enlarged area for supporting other items, and various accessories such as a towel rack or towel pegs.

Abstract: An assembly of a sink magnetically engaging a dishwashing brush, one of the sink and the brush comprising a magnet and the other of the sink and the brush comprising a magnet or a magnetically permeable material. In one embodiment, the brush comprises a first and a second part, the first part being adapted to be grasped by a user, and the second part comprising bristles, the first and second part each having a longitudinal axis, the longitudinal axes of the first and second parts having a non-zero angle there between, the sink comprises the magnet or magnetically permeable material at a position at a side thereof, the sink having an upper rim and a center portion, and the brush comprises the magnet or magnetically permeable material in a position so that, when engaging the sink, the second part is positioned over the sink and within the upper rim, whereas the first part extends above the upper rim and away from the center portion of the sink.

Abstract: Container unit for storage and disinfection of various items, such as dishcloths, sponges, brushes and the like, where the unit comprises an outer housing, and an inner moveable rack, characterised in that the inner moveable rack comprises a reservoir, and that said rack and reservoir are connected to the outer housing by means whereby the inner rack can move out from a position in the housing where the housing substantially encloses the rack and reservoir, to a position where the rack and at least part of the reservoir are accessible, and that means are provided either in the housing or the rack for disinfecting objects on the rack.

Abstract: This soapbox is capable of draining wet bar soaps very quickly and efficiently and keeps water away from the surface of the bar soap. The unique design of the soap rack and its rack-bars keep the soap bar significantly dry and minimizes the wastage of soap. After its use, the bar soap will be conveniently stored in a compact, watertight box without the worry of spoiling the surroundings with the soapy water.

Abstract: A system is provided for providing automated washing for debris removal from the skin of a user's hands. At least some embodiments of the present include a friction enhancing structure such as a brush. In at least one embodiment of the invention, the system includes an RFID capability for identifying when at least one component, such as a removable brush, is due to for replacement for sanitation reasons.

Abstract: An exemplary embodiment includes a soap dispenser designed to fit into a water faucet having a stopper-closing lift rod. The rod is removed, and the dispenser tube is inserted into the faucet base hole and down under the counter where the tube is connected to a reservoir of liquid soap. Pressing down on the top of the soap dispenser produces liquid soap through a soap spout above the water faucet spout. Pulling up on the dispenser closes the sink stopper, and pushing down opens the sink stopper. The method of doing the retrofit is also claimed, as well as electrically and mechanically operated versions.

Abstract: A juvenile bathtub includes a basin and a nest formed as a seat for supporting a juvenile in the basin. The basin includes a top surface and a bottom surface and a cavity to retain a pool of bathing water. The nest is mounted for movement in the basin and includes lower and upper sections and further includes a lowered position and a raised position within and relative to the basin.

Abstract: A household liquid dispensing system for dispensing a household liquid, such as soap, shampoo, dish washing detergent and bath oil through an outlet of a household water system. The liquid dispensing system comprises a household water system having an outlet, a storage unit for storing at least one liquid operatively connected to the household water system, and a control for connecting and disconnecting the storage unit to the household water system. In a first aspect of the invention the liquid is introduced into the household water system by a venturi. In a second aspect of the invention, the storage unit is positioned above an outlet of the household water system and is introduced by gravity. The control is normally biased to an “off” position. This invention can be utilized for showers, bathtubs, laundry tubs and sinks.

Abstract: A unit for pedestrian control of traffic lights operated by a traffic light controller, comprises a casing adapted to be mounted to a traffic light post, the casing having a bottom face carrying a window, and a photocell mounted in the casing for directing a beam through the window in a downward direction generally parallel to the post to which the casing is mounted. The photocell is responsive to the presence of a pedestrian's hand placed beneath the window in the beam. The photocell is adapted to be operatively connected to the traffic light controller to send a signal thereto when the presence of a pedestrian has been detected.

Abstract: A draining soap dish for multiple bars of soap including a top plate having a plurality of rectangular shaped opening's therethrough in a spaced relationship. The openings each are dimensioned for receiving a bar of soap therethrough. The top plate has four support walls extending downwardly therefrom. One of the support walls has a drainage recess extending upwardly of a free edge thereof. A plurality of containers are coupled with respect to the openings of the top plate for receiving a bar of soap therein. Each of the containers have an open upper end, a closed tapered lower end, opposed end walls, and opposed side walls. The open upper ends of the containers are positioned within the openings of the top plate. The plurality of containers each have U-shaped drainage slots therein extending along the opposed side walls and the closed tapered lower end.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method of effectively preventing infection, and provides a fluid supply apparatus capable of being preferably used for the system. A fluid supply apparatus is disposed near a doorway of a hall of an ordinary household. The fluid supply apparatus includes a water supply function performed by a water supply nozzle, a gargle discharge function performed by a gargle nozzle, a disinfectant discharge function performed by a disinfectant nozzle, and a sink. A body detection sensor for detecting a human body that enters a room is provided above the doorway. When the body detection sensor detects a body, a voice output apparatus outputs a voice prompting the person to gargle and wash hands.

Abstract: A cleaning device for attachment to a water faucet, comprising a housing element having a top portion and a bottom portion, the top portion being threaded for operable engagement with a water faucet, and the bottom portion having an opening therein. An aperture is positioned in the housing element allowing the flow of water through the housing element. A plurality of cleaning bristles are positioned in the opening of the bottom portion of the housing element for cleaning fingernails, hands, razors, toothbrushes and the like.

Abstract: A back cleaning device having two shells, one inner and one outer with a soap solution bladder affixed between the respective shells. The bladder holds a liquefied soap solution that may be dispersed from an upper dispersal nozzle. The inner shell contains mounting brackets that allow it to be engaged to separate height locations on at least one separate rail that may be affixed to a wall in a shower or bath. The outer shell will include at least one scrub pad engaged to an outer surface. The person needing a back cleaning will lean her back against the scrub pad pushing the outer shell towards the inner shell compressing the bladder. The person will move their back up and down against the scrub pad. This bladder compression forces soap solution out of the upper dispersal nozzle. The soap solution runs over the scrub pad, soaping the scrub pad. The person needing the cleaning has their back cleaned due to the up and down movement against the soaped scrub pad.

Abstract: A device for automatically controlling the operation of a washroom appliance such as a water faucet, soap dispenser, shower, urinal, etc., comprising means for actuating said appliance, means for deactuating said appliance, a remote control arranged for emitting a signal, a receiver arranged for receiving said signal and for generating a maintenance signal in response to receipt of the signal from the remote control, and means responsive to the maintenance signal for generating an overruling signal for disabling said actuation means. The device comprises in a first aspect of the invention means for intermittently actuating and deactuating said receiver to reduce the power consumption thereof. In a second aspect, the invention relates to a device for automatically controlling flow of water in a wash fountain, including a maintenance function which enable to deactivate the wash fountain except for at least one valve to permit supply of water for cleaning the wash fountain.

Abstract: A handwash station comprises a wall mounted cabinet which contains soap and water dispensing means, a proximity sensor and processing circuitry. The processing circuitry controls the dispensing of soap and water in response to signals from the proximity sensor. A count of valid handwashes is incremented only if a user's hand is detected by the proximity sensor at certain key points. The key points comprise at least the start of a last soap dispensing step and the start of a last rinsing water dispensing step. Differential valid handwash count values are stored periodically by the processing circuitry and can be downloaded to a central station for analysis.

Abstract: A lavatory fixture having a combination, urinal and hand wash faucet for public restrooms, particularly in high traffic locations such as airports, the lavatory fixture having a urinal and hand sink combined in a single lavatory unit with a self-activated hand faucet being positioned above a urinal catch basin, the hand faucet having an associated proximity sensor to activate a water flow for washing hands, when a user's hands are placed proximate the faucet, and the urinal having an associated proximity sensor for sensing the presence of a user proximate the urinal to flush the urinal when the user moves away from the urinal, the lavatory fixture having a common drain and an optional hand soap dispenser.

Abstract: A recirculating parts washer is disclosed that features a vertically mounted base and a sink and lid rotatably connected to the base. The recirculating parts washer features a cleaning fluid supply container which is separate from the sink but connected to it via a supply line and a drain line.Cleaning fluid is circulated to the sink via the supply line by means of a submersible pump submerged within the cleaning fluid inside the cleaning fluid supply container. Cleaning fluid returns to the supply container via the drain line, thus enabling the cleaning fluid to be reused over and over again until it is exhausted.By having the sink and lid rotatably mounted to the base of the recirculating parts washer, the bulk of the assembly can be conveniently pivoted upwards and back against the wall when not in use. The recirculating parts washer also features a direct current power supply assembly.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling plumbing fixtures includes an electronic control board having a microprocessor that accepts four inputs and produces four outputs. Inputs at other than the microprocessor's operating voltage are converted thereto. Outputs having different voltages are controlled by latching relays. The control board can be used with a sink that requires a sequenced hand washing. The control board can form a node on a network that monitors and controls the functions of multiple boards throughout a facility.

Abstract: A soap case having a receiving portion for receiving a bar of soap, the soap case characterized in that the receiving portion has a width wider than the thickness of the bar of soap and narrower than the width of the bar of soap such that the bar of soap can be received in a standing position as a pair of relatively wider surfaces of the bar of soap face both side surfaces of the receiving portion, and a depth sufficient for the bar of soap to stably stand upright, and comprises side surfaces each being curved of which the effective contact portions actually contacting the bar of soap being received becomes narrower towards the bottom of the case, a front surface for supporting the received bar of soap to stably stand upright, a rim surface of a curved shape forming the upper portion of the side surfaces and the front surface, and a bottom surface of a curved shape sloped at a predetermined angle.sub.