Having Condition Responsive Supply Outlet, Drain, Overflow Or Trap For A Sink Or Bath Patents (Class 4/668)
  • Patent number: 11350798
    Abstract: A water faucet system including a faucet having a neck comprising a water passageway and liquid soap delivery line, both integrated within the neck assembly. The water faucet system features a streamlined neck assembly that includes a water outlet or spout, located at the distal portion of the neck assembly, and additionally includes a separate soap outlet located at a predetermined location. The soap delivery (soap dispensing) is initiated by a user performing an activation event directed to a sensor system located in the neck assembly. In preferred embodiments, the sensor system utilizes touchless type sensors so to avoid any physical contact with the neck assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2022
    Inventor: Gary A. Burgo, Sr.
  • Patent number: 11225780
    Abstract: The present invention refers to a drinking and service water system with a connection (2) to the public water supply network, at least one supply line (4, 6) leading to at least one consumer (8), a flushing valve (10) downstream of the consumer (8) in the flow direction for draining water from the drinking and service water system, a control unit (12) connected to the flushing valve (10) in terms of control, and a first temperature sensor (18) upstream of the consumer (8) in the flow direction, the control unit (12) comprising a flushing module which determines flushing processes to the control unit (12) at specific times and/or at specific time intervals. This invention is intended to provide a drinking and service water system which, with an efficient flushing device, fulfills the hygienic requirements placed on a drinking water system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2022
    Assignee: GEBR. KEMPER GMBH + CO., KG METALLWERKE
    Inventors: Thomas Spöler, Manuel Schuppert
  • Patent number: 11064844
    Abstract: There is described an automated liquid management system for a liquid container such as a bathtub. The system comprises a faucet or a shower head, a drain closure, a level sensor and a controller operatively coupled to thereto. The controller operates the faucet or a shower head, the drain closure and the level sensor to monitor and control the level of liquid in the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2021
    Assignee: MAAX BATH INC.
    Inventors: Charles Kerwin Braddock, Thomas Stuart Debaugh, Ashley Imsand
  • Patent number: 10941548
    Abstract: A fluid delivery apparatus includes a spout, an active sensor, and a passive sensor. The active sensor is configured to detect the presence of a user adjacent the spout when enabled. The passive sensor is configured to define a sensing field in an area near the spout and also to detect a presence of a user. A controller is coupled to the passive sensor and the active sensor. The controller is programmed to detect the presence of a user in the sensing field based on an output signal from the active sensor in response to detecting the presence of the user in the sensing field with the passive sensor, thereby reducing the amount of power used by the active sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2021
    Assignee: Delta Faucet Company
    Inventor: Joel D. Sawaski
  • Patent number: 10349787
    Abstract: A water faucet system including a faucet having a neck comprising a water passageway and liquid soap delivery line, both integrated within the neck assembly. The water faucet system features a streamlined neck assembly that includes a water outlet or spout, located at the distal portion of the neck assembly, and additionally includes a separate soap outlet located at a predetermined location. The soap delivery (soap dispensing) is initiated by a user performing an activation event directed to a sensor system located in the neck assembly. In preferred embodiments, the sensor system utilizes touchless type sensors so to avoid any physical contact with the neck assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Inventors: Gary A. Burgo, Sr., Frank M. Burgo
  • Patent number: 9771709
    Abstract: A control cartridge (2) for installation in a cartridge housing (3) of a sanitary fitting (1) comprises a first feed opening (4) and a discharge opening (6) as well as one or more seals (7), which are configured for sealing abutment on an internal surface (8) of the cartridge housing (3). Said seals (7) are arranged in such a way that after the completed installation of the control cartridge (2) in a cartridge housing (3) of a sanitary fitting (1) the first feed opening (4) is joined in a sealed manner to a cold-water or mixed-water connection (9) of the sanitary fitting (1) and the discharge opening (6) is joined in a sealed manner to a discharge pipe (11) of the sanitary fitting (1). The first feed opening (4) in the cartridge housing (3) or in the control cartridge (2) is directly connected to the discharge opening (6) which is sealed with respect to the cartridge housing (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2017
    Assignee: Oblamatik AG
    Inventors: Edo Lang, Roland Obrist
  • Patent number: 9273451
    Abstract: A temperature activated shower controller including in combination, a temperature sensor adapted to detect and respond to a pre-determined temperature increase in water supplied to a shower head; a valve adapted to allow or reduce the flow of water to the shower head; programmable microprocessor means responsive to the temperature sensor and adapted to control the operation of the valve, according to a pre-programmed shower duration. In operational use, when turning on the water supply and within a given period of time after the pre-determined temperature rate of change of temperature with respect to time, ie a temperature gradient, is detected, the temperature activated shower controller is initiated and a user can select a shower duration or the microprocessor defaults to a pre-set shower duration after which time the valve moves to the closed position to reduce the flow of water supply to the shower head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2016
    Inventor: David Michael Brunoli
  • Publication number: 20150101121
    Abstract: A water faucet system including a faucet having a neck comprising a water passageway and liquid soap delivery line, both integrated within the neck assembly. The water faucet system features a streamlined neck assembly that includes a water outlet or spout, located at the distal portion of the neck assembly, and additionally includes a separate soap outlet located at a predetermined location. The soap delivery (soap dispensing) is initiated by a user performing an activation event directed to a sensor system located in the neck assembly. In preferred embodiments, the sensor system utilizes touchless type sensors so to avoid any physical contact with the neck assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2014
    Publication date: April 16, 2015
    Inventors: Gary A. Burgo Sr., Frank M. Burgo
  • Publication number: 20150096116
    Abstract: A water control system including a showerhead and a tub faucet. The faucet has a temperature controlled valve configured in a first mode to automatically restrict fluid flow through the faucet and direct fluid to the showerhead once the fluid flowing through the faucet reaches a predetermined temperature, referred to as a hot mode. The faucet also has a manual override member configured to manually restrict fluid flow through the faucet and to the showerhead to allow cold showers, referred to as a cold mode. The valve includes a piston, and a sleeve configured to establish the hot mode and the cold mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2014
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Inventors: Jeff Doss, Jason Swanson
  • Publication number: 20150040311
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure generally provide a grey water interface valve liquid level sensor system. The liquid level sensor system may deliver information about the water level and the water movement that occurs in a water reservoir. A control unit may then activate a valve to open so that the water can be removed via vacuum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2014
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventors: Jakob Hennings, Rohan Lean, Joachim Hilse, Razmik B. Boodaghians, Jeroen Willem Kurvink
  • Publication number: 20150026880
    Abstract: A drain device includes a tube set, a transmission, a stopper and a driver. The transmission is disposed in a main tube and an isolating inner tube, and extended from the front end of the isolating inner tube to the front end of the main tube. The stopper is mounted to a front end of the transmission, and adapted to close or open a water feeding inlet. The driver is disposed in the isolating inner tube, and mechanically connected to the transmission, whereby after the driver receives an electronic control signal, the driver drives the stopper to move downward or upward via the transmission, and there is a sealing effect or a gap between the stopper and the annular plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventor: Tien Ho CHUNG
  • Publication number: 20150013064
    Abstract: A faucet includes a logical control, a spout, a hub, a handle, and a touch control operably coupled to at least one of the spout, the hub, and the handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Garry R. Marty, Joel D. Sawaski, Kurt J. Thomas, Kyle R. Davidson
  • Publication number: 20130340161
    Abstract: Apparatus (2) for saving water, which apparatus (2) comprises: (i) separator means (4) for separating water that is flowing from a water inlet (6) and that has not been interrupted in flow, from water that is flowing from the water inlet (6) and that has been interrupted in flow; (ii) first outlet means (8) for receiving water that has not been interrupted in flow; and (iii) second outlet means (10) for receiving the water that has been interrupted in flow, and the apparatus (2) being such that in use it permits the water received by the first outlet means (8) to be saved from flowing to waste.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2012
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventor: Matthias Alfred Hartmann
  • Patent number: 8438672
    Abstract: An integrated bathroom electronic system including a plurality of sensors to detect conditions within a bathroom and to provide signals indicative thereof to a controller. A plurality of distinct and exclusive modules or subsystems are illustratively provided for integration into the system. Such modules may include a quick hot water module, a roman tub module, a custom shower module, a hands free faucet module, and a tub shower module. In certain illustrative shower modules, a user interface includes a plurality of user defined presets, each preset including a shower setting stored in memory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Masco Corporation of Indiana
    Inventors: Ryan A. Reeder, Spencer L. Stohler, Andrew B. Mendenhall, Paul T. Zink, Robert W. Rodenbeck
  • Patent number: 8286279
    Abstract: A pumped waste (10) for a shower comprises a sump (12), a waste water inlet (14) through which waste water enters the sump (12), a waste water outlet (16) for connection to a pump for drawing at least a portion of the waste water from the sump (12) through the waste water outlet (16), and a switch device (24) for controlling the pump. The switch device (24) includes a first part (26) which is located on the sump (12), and a second part (28) which is provided externally of the sump (12) in spaced relationship with the first part (26). The second part (28) is spaced from, and positioned at a level below, the waste water inlet (14). The in use first and second parts (26, 28) of the switch device cooperate without physical contact with each other to control the pump based on the level of water in the waste.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: DLP Limited
    Inventor: Robert William Stimpson
  • Patent number: 8177102
    Abstract: A pump comprising a container containing a dispense material, an outlet and an actuator arranged to alternate between a first and a second configuration in response to a change in the pump's environment, which change in configuration causes an aliquot of dispense material to be expelled through the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Reckitt Benckiser (UK) Limited
    Inventors: Geoffrey Robert Hammond, Malcolm Tom McKechnie
  • Patent number: 8146181
    Abstract: A drain valve which is used in particular in storage tanks of dishwashers, such as single-chamber or multi-chamber dishwashers. The drain valve comprises a sieve insert accommodated on a support which is of tubular design, and in which a contact switch is arranged to sense the presence of the sieve insert. The support can be moved in the vertical direction with respect to the drain opening in the base of a storage tank by means of an electric drive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Meiko Maschinenbau GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Bruno Gaus
  • Publication number: 20120017367
    Abstract: An integrated bathroom electronic system including a plurality of sensors to detect conditions within a bathroom and to provide signals indicative thereof to a controller. A plurality of distinct and exclusive modules or subsystems are illustratively provided for integration into the system. Such modules may include a quick hot water module, a roman tub module, a custom shower module, a hands free faucet module, and a tub shower module. In certain illustrative shower modules, a user interface includes a plurality of user defined presets, each preset including a shower setting stored in memory.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2011
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Inventors: Ryan A. Reeder, Spencer L. Stohler, Andrew B. Mendenhall, Paul T. Zink, Robert W. Rodenbeck
  • Publication number: 20110289675
    Abstract: A fluid flow control system having a fluid inlet configured to be operatively coupled to a fluid source, a fluid outlet in fluid communication with the fluid inlet such that fluid may exit the system therethrough, a proximity sensor for detecting the position of an object within a region adjacent the sensor, and a flow control device configured to regulate fluid flow between the inlet and outlet in response to object detection by the sensor, wherein the flow control device varies the fluid flow proportional to the detected distance of an object from the sensor. A water flow control system for use in a shower environment is also provided, as well as a shower control system, methods for controlling water flow based on sensing of the presence and location of an object, and methods for reducing water consumption.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2011
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventors: Kerry Dunki-Jacobs, Robert Dunki-Jacobs
  • Patent number: 8065759
    Abstract: A monitor embodiment, monitoring overflow levels in a bathtub, comprises an input water unit, including a control circuitry, coupled to a hot-cold water facet; a water level detection unit including telescopically joined tubes with a floatable lowest tube associated with an indicator, an uppermost tube fixed to the input unit, sensors attached to non-lowest tubes variably coupled. The sensors detect the indicator's position reaching a predetermined alarm or shutoff level, causing respective initiating an alarm signal, or terminating the input unit's water flow. Another embodiment additionally comprises an output water unit associated with the circuitry, incorporating a temperature sensor and a user preset-temperature selector. The output unit outlets cooled water from the bathtub, the input unit inlets hot water until the preset-temperature is reached, provided no alarm signal was issued. An additional sensor, incorporated in the input unit, allows adding the hot water when it's hotter than the bathtub water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Inventors: Aleksandr Smushkovich, Eugene Pogrebinsky
  • Patent number: 8028355
    Abstract: An integrated bathroom electronic system including a plurality of sensors to detect conditions within a bathroom and to provide signals indicative thereof to a controller. A plurality of distinct and exclusive modules or subsystems are illustratively provided for integration into the system. Such modules may include a quick hot water module, a roman tub module, a custom shower module, a hands free faucet module, and a tub shower module. In certain illustrative shower modules, a user interface includes a plurality of user defined presets, each preset including a shower setting stored in memory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Masco Corporation of Indiana
    Inventors: Ryan A. Reeder, Spencer L. Stohler, Andrew B. Mendenhall, Paul T. Zink, Robert W. Rodenbeck
  • Patent number: 8006324
    Abstract: A urinal discharge pipe assembly comprising a discharge pipe having a passageway therethrough from an inlet in communication with a urinal discharge outlet and an outlet in communication with a urine disposal system, a foam dispensing device having a foam outlet open into the passageway for discharge of an allotment of foam into the passageway between the inlet and the outlet adequate to form a temporary foam plug across the passageway blocking the passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Gotohti.com Inc.
    Inventors: Heiner Ophardt, Andrew Jones
  • Publication number: 20090293190
    Abstract: A system for accurately detecting the presence of a person in a shower by combining presence detection technology, such as an infrared sensor in the showerhead, with a mechanical height adjustment of the showerhead, so that the optimal distance between the sensor and showering person can be maintained for persons of different heights. Alternative embodiments include an electronic control unit to provide power consumption management and safety features. When the electronic control unit is combined with presence detection to predict the identity of a showering person, personal services customized for the identified person are provided. An alternate embodiment teaches a process for intelligently conserving water by intelligently blocking water flow at appropriate times, based on predictable behavior of a contemplated showering person.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventors: Richard P. Ringelstetter, Rudolph G. Hechfeilner
  • Publication number: 20090178192
    Abstract: A system (10) for automatically filling a bathtub (14), is operatively arranged to supply heated water to the bathtub and to drain water from the bathtub through a drain outlet (12) after use, the system comprising a conduit (14b) through which water from the drain outlet is recirculated back to the bathtub in use. The bathtub outlet comprises a passageway having an upstream end connectable in fluid communication with the bathtub, a downstream end connectable to a drain (60) and a servo-actuated valve (34) disposed to control water flow through the passageway, the passageway comprising a branch (80) in fluid communication with it at a region between the upstream end and the servo-actuated valve. The branch may be used to fill the bathtub and/or for the water recirculation. Alternatively the bathtub overflow outlet (30) comprises an inlet (18) connectable to an external supply (50) of filling water and directing this filling water into the bathtub in use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2007
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventor: Plamen Spassov Vassilev
  • Patent number: 7517452
    Abstract: A floor waste (10) including a filter basket (16) having a magnet (18). The magnet (18) attracts a movable valve member (27) upwardly from a seat (22) to allow liquid to pass through the seat (22). When the basket (15) is removed the movable valve member (27) closes the seat (22). In one embodiment the valve member (27) includes a valve disk 29 that prevents the flow of liquid through the seat (22) when engaged therewith, while in another embodiment the disk (29) has a series of passages (31) that permits the flow of liquid through the seat when the disk (29) is engaged with the seat (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Speciality Plumbling Supplies Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Raymond G. Chapman, David W. Creasy
  • Patent number: 7451502
    Abstract: A bath drain assembly for use with a bathtub having a drain closure device mounted to a bottom drain and a movable actuating member engaging the drain closure device such that the drain closure device is toggled between open an closed positions when activated. A control device is in electronic communication with a sensor adapted to sense water level of fluid contained within the bathtub such that the drain closure device is moved to an open position via the actuating member when the sensor detects a given water level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William T. Ball
  • Publication number: 20080209628
    Abstract: A pumped waste (10) for a shower comprises a sump (12), a waste water inlet (14) through which waste water enters the sump (12), a waste water outlet (16) for connection to a pump for drawing at least a portion of the waste water from the sump (12) through the waste water outlet (16), and a switch device (24) for controlling the pump. The switch device (24) includes a first part (26) which is located on the sump (12), and a second part (28) which is provided externally of the sump (12) in spaced relationship with the first part (26). The second part (28) is spaced from, and positioned at a level below, the waste water inlet (14). The in use first and second parts (26, 28) of the switch device cooperate without physical contact with each other to control the pump based on the level of water in the waste.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2005
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Inventor: Robert William Stimpson
  • Patent number: 7350245
    Abstract: A liquid level detection and control system having a shut off gate located near the liquid discharge outlet and a liquid level sensor which sends signal to a wireless transmitter when a preset liquid level is detected. The transmitter then transmits signal to an electronic receiver and from there to an electronic circuit which transmit signal to a solenoid operatively associated with the shut off gate to open and close the gate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Inventor: Vincent Giagni
  • Patent number: 7096522
    Abstract: Alarms adaptable to common American bathtub cover plate configurations. Two different embodiments are illustrated. In a first embodiment, the alarm unit is designed to allow use with the three different mounting styles of cover plates used in the United States. The unit housing is preferably formed of plastic or metal with different colors and finishes and includes removable areas to allow use with a single center screw; dual screws or a center pivoting drain lever with dual screws. The various electronics components remain sealed inside the waterproof plastic or metal housing in all instances. In a second embodiment, a waterproof housing attaches to an adapter ring. The adapter ring is configured to cooperate with single center screw and dual screw variations. An alternative adapter ring can be used with European and newer American threaded overflow drains. In the first two embodiments there can be upper and lower sensor(s), preferably a pair of each, to provide initial and critical warnings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Inventor: R. Eric Hirtriter
  • Patent number: 7007319
    Abstract: An overflow device for a bathtub with an overflow inlet arranged for mounting in a conventional overflow hole of the bathtub and a valve connected between a water supply and a conventional bath tap. A spring can be used to change the valve from its open state to its closed state. A float and trigger lever can detect water that has entered the overflow inlet and trigger the device to change, using the stored spring energy, from a set state in which the valve is open to a triggered state in which the valve is closed. A manually operable resetting element can be operated by a user to replenish the spring with energy and return the device to the set state. The device can be permanently plumbed in and the bulk of the device can be hidden from view outside the bathtub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Inventors: Andrew Peter Dunnett, Richard Thom
  • Patent number: 6952843
    Abstract: An overflow system is described for a water receptacle (22) such as bathtub, sink or washbasin having a water tap for connection to a water supply. The system includes sensing means, such as a float (14), for sensing an overflow condition of the receptacle, and a supply valve (65) responsive to the sensing means and arranged to close the water supply to the tap. The supply valve may be hydraulically controllable via a control port (68) thereof. A control valve (59) is provided between the water supply and the control port The control valve is responsive to the sensing means so that upon such an overflow condition it open and the pressure of the water supply is applied to close the supply valve. Thus, there is no need for a supply of electricity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Inventor: Andrew Peter Dunnett
  • Patent number: 6810902
    Abstract: A control circuit for a plumbing device that has a drain line and a water supply line includes a water sensor generating a potential overflow level signal in response to the water level in the plumbing device caused from a restricted drain line, an electrically controlled valve coupled to the drain line, and a controller coupled to the water sensor and the valve. The controller closes the valve in response to the potential overflow level signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Inventor: Anthony M. Bootka
  • Publication number: 20040133974
    Abstract: An overflow system is described for a water receptacle (22) such as bathtub, sink or washbasin having a water tap for connection to a water supply. The system includes sensing means, such as a float (14), for sensing an overflow condition of the receptacle, and a supply valve (65) responsive to the sensing means and arranged to close the water supply to the tap. The supply valve may be hydraulically controllable via a control port (68) thereof. A control valve (59) is provided between the water supply and the control port The control valve is responsive to the sensing means so that upon such an overflow condition it open and the pressure of the water supply is applied to close the supply valve. Thus, there is no need for a supply of electricity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Andrew Peter Dunnett
  • Patent number: 6666966
    Abstract: The self-disinfecting drain trap is an arrangement for the automatic cleaning and disinfecting of drain traps in drain channels. The cleaning and disinfection take place automatically during normal usage and without interruption of the operation of the drain trap. They take place by means of a novel combination for drain traps of electromechanical oscillation, preferably ultrasound, heating the interior space of the drain trap and heating the confining liquid and preventing growth on the inner wall by means of a growth-inhibiting and antimicrobially effective coating. The danger of recontamination of sanitary apparatuses and devices and therewith also of the ambient air by microorganisms from wastewater pipelines is effectively countered therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Inventor: Alexander Schluttig
  • Patent number: 6523193
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Saraya Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ichiro Saraya
  • Patent number: 6490739
    Abstract: A plug for a sink drain includes a body fitted to a sink, a connector with a spring and secured to the body, a cap mounted on the connector, and a knob mounted on the cap. The spring extends through the connector to urge against the cap whereby the plug has a raised mode in which water can drain from the sink and a lowered mode in which water is retained in the sink.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Princeton International Company
    Inventor: Leon Lee
  • Patent number: 6438770
    Abstract: An apparatus for automating control of the water in a shower system includes at least one sensor disposable within a water flow path intermediate the valve and the showerhead. A processing unit operatively connectable to the sensor processes the sensor signal and generates control signals in response thereto. A valve control mechanism operatively connectable to the valve and the processing unit positions the valve in response to the control signals from the processing unit. A user interface operatively connectable to the processing unit receives user commands and displays values for the water temperature and flow rate. In the illustrative embodiment the processing unit is microprocessor based and enables previously defined vales for water temperature and flow rate to be stored and recalled in association with a particular user identifier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Assignee: Invent Resources, Inc.
    Inventors: A. Ze'ev Hed, George Freedman, Richard Pavelle, Sol Aisenberg, William M. Key
  • Patent number: 6393634
    Abstract: An automatic faucet, wherein the reference value can be reset in accordance with the state of a sink, without requiring further adjustment. The automatic faucet includes a faucet; a sink which receives water emitted from the faucet; a light generator for radiating infrared rays toward the bottom of the sink; a light receiver for receiving infrared rays, reflected from the bottom of the sink, and detecting an amount of light thereby received; a flush output portion for comparing the detection output from the light receiver with a reference value, and creating a flush output when the detection output exceeds a predetermined value; and a faucet controller for opening and closing the faucet in accordance with the output of the flush output portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Assignee: Uro Denshi Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Makoto Kodaira, Mitsuya Kaneko
  • Patent number: 6393635
    Abstract: A waste disposal system quietly and effectively evacuates solid, liquid, and slurry food waste from a galley sink via a vacuum action created when a normally closed flush valve momentarily opens and eliminates the differential pressure between the sink and the drain line. The system is automatically disabled when a clogged condition is sensed. The sink bowl is equipped with a sealable cover that cuts down the noise associated with vacuum pressure evacuation systems to an acceptable level. The system also has a rinse subsystem including a rinse valve for introducing rinse water into the sink just before a flush operation commences. The sink bowl includes an air inlet port in communication with an air inlet duct that extends outside of and above the cart for providing cabin pressure air to the sink. A controller controls the timing and operation of the flush and rinse operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Assignee: MAG Aerospace Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Mike M. Rozenblatt
  • Patent number: 6385789
    Abstract: A galley waste disposal system is provided for use with an existing vacuum collection system. The galley waste disposal system includes a basin for receiving galley waste and a discharge valve connected between the basin and a collection tank. The discharge valve is vacuum-operated and has an actuating port. An electrically-operated vacuum control valve is connected between the actuating port and a vacuum source. A flush element is also provided that is actuatable to produce a discharge command. A controller is operably connected to the control valve and is selectively operable in response to the discharge command to place the actuating port in fluid communication with the vacuum source, thereby to open the discharge valve. In addition, the discharge valve, vacuum control valve, and controller may be housed in an enclosure suitable for mounting remotely from the basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Evac International Oy
    Inventors: Mark A. Pondelick, Mitchell D. Gilbert, LaVern R. McCallips
  • Patent number: 6363549
    Abstract: A valve system in which a magnetic valve is in series with a manually-operated valve and contact with the handle of the manually-operated valve initiates flow via the electronic controller whereas, upon loss of contact, a proximity detector controls the magnetic valve when an object, such as a user's hand, is in range. The manual contact is superordinate and proximity detection is subordinate and the proximity detector remains permanently switched on during the operating duration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Assignee: Friedrich Grohe AG & Co. KG
    Inventors: Jürgen Humpert, Eckhard Gransow
  • Publication number: 20010047542
    Abstract: A mobile seat lifting apparatus is used to pivot a seat member between a sitting position and a standing position. The mobile seat lifting apparatus includes a frame assembly and a seat assembly pivotally connected thereto, an actuator means connected to said seat assembly, and a driving means connected to the actuator means to pivot the seat assembly between the standing position and the sitting position. The frame assembly includes a floor brace that is able to securely support the remainder of the frame assembly and the attached seat assembly with a user sitting thereon. The frame assembly further includes a seat brace and a support arm, wherein the support arm connects the seat brace with the floor brace. The actuator means is preferably connected between the floor brace and the seat brace such that the actuator means additionally supports the seat brace in either the standing position or the sitting position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 1999
    Publication date: December 6, 2001
    Inventor: MIKE REX LUCKENBILL
  • Patent number: 6276005
    Abstract: A water recycling device, wherein gray water from a bathroom sink is reused to flush a toilet. The device includes a gray water reservoir, means for sensing the level of water in the toilet tank, a pump to transfer water from the gray water reservoir to the toilet tank, and a mechanical means to stop the normal potable water supply from filling the toilet water tank as long as sufficient water is being supplied from the gray water reservoir. The mechanical means physically holds the float valve of the fresh water line closed by holding the float in the up position, unless there is no flow of gray water into the toilet's tank, in which case the float is released, allowing the normal potable water supply to fill the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Inventors: Mark G. Sanders, Matt Ridge
  • Publication number: 20010011391
    Abstract: A waste disposal system quietly and effectively evacuates solid, liquid, and slurry food waste from a galley sink via a vacuum action created when a normally closed flush valve momentarily opens and eliminates the differential pressure between the sink and the drain line. The system is automatically disabled when a clogged condition is sensed. The sink bowl is equipped with a sealable cover that cuts down the noise associated with vacuum pressure evacuation systems to an acceptable level. The system also has a rinse subsystem including a rinse valve for introducing rinse water into the sink just before a flush operation commences. The sink bowl includes an air inlet port in communication with an air inlet duct that extends outside of and above the cart for providing cabin pressure air to the sink. A controller controls the timing and operation of the flush and rinse operations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2001
    Publication date: August 9, 2001
    Applicant: MAG Aerospace Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Mike M. Rozenblatt
  • Patent number: 6223361
    Abstract: A waste disposal system quietly and effectively evacuates solid, liquid, and slurry food waste from a galley sink via a vacuum action created when a normally closed flush valve momentarily opens and eliminates the differential pressure between the sink and the drain line. The system is automatically disabled when a clogged condition is sensed. The sink bowl is equipped with a sealable cover that cuts down the noise associated with vacuum pressure evacuation systems to an acceptable level. The system also has a rinse subsystem including a rinse valve for introducing rinse water into the sink just before a flush operation commences. The sink bowl includes an air inlet port in communication with an air inlet duct that extends outside of and above the cart for providing cabin pressure air to the sink. A controller controls the timing and operation of the flush and rinse operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Mag Aerospace Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Mike M. Rozenblatt
  • Patent number: 6219857
    Abstract: A sensor device includes a mounting frame having open front and rear ends, and right and left inner side walls opposite to each other in a longitudinal direction and extending between the front and rear ends so as to define a passage. The mounting frame is adapted to be mounted such that the body of a user of the sanitary apparatus will be sighted by the passage. A sensor body is inserted into the passage, and has a front side proximate to the front end to emit and receive a light signal, and right and left lateral walls that face respectively and spacedly the right and left inner side walls. A pair. of pivotally mounting members are respectively disposed between the right lateral and inner side walls, and between the left lateral and inner side walls such that the pivotally mounting members effect pivotal mountings which are pivotable between angular positions about an axis parallel to the longitudinal direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: Hydrotek Corporation
    Inventor: Shui-Shun Wu
  • Patent number: 6119283
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for evacuation of liquids, such as wastewater from e.g. wash basins, urinals, bath tubs or showers, whereby the liquid is collected in a sump, generates a hydrostatic pressure and is evacuated from the sump through a vacuum pipeline after a predetermined hydrostatic pressure is generated. In order to avoid flexible control conduits and to achieve time controlled evacuation with a simple mechanism, valves are integrated in a housing and operated by pressure differences acting on diaphragms after a certain hydrostatic pressure has been generated. One of the valves opens a connection between the sump and the vacuum pipeline to evacuate the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Roediger Vakuum- und Haustechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Lothar Galler
  • Patent number: 6098648
    Abstract: An intake for a bathtub with recirculates water, such as a whirlpool-type tub, includes a water inlet, an interior portion and an outlet that is adapted to be connected to a recirculating pump, so that water can flow from the tub, in through the inlet, through the interior and to the outlet to be recirculated by the pump. A vent communicates with the interior, and extends outside of the interior for communication with ambient air. A shutter is provided that is capable of being switched from a first condition, in which the outlet communicates with the vent, to an operating condition, in which, when a flow of water is caused toward the outlet, the shutter substantially shuts the vent. The shutter is adapted to switch from the operating condition to the first condition when the flow of water falls below a predetermined threshold value so as to enable ambient air to enter the interior through the vent, causing the recirculating pump to become unprimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Domino S.p.A.
    Inventor: Giuliano Bertoia
  • Patent number: 6003170
    Abstract: A faucet assembly has a conduit defining a flow path between a supply of water and an outlet, a mechanical valve in the conduit and having an open position and a closed position, and a lever coupled to the mechanical valve for shifting it between its open and closed positions. A proximity detector has a detection field adjacent the outlet and a controller connected between the proximity detector and an openable and closable servo valve is activatable for opening the servo valve on detection of an object in the field of the proximity detector. A position-detecting switch associated with the mechanical valve is connected to the controller for activating this controller on shifting of the mechanical valve into its open position and for deactivating the controller on shifting of the mechanical valve into its closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Friedrich Grohe AG
    Inventors: Jurgen Humpert, Eckhard Gransow
  • Patent number: 5975124
    Abstract: A water outlet control system is provided including a water basin having a drainage port formed on a lower extent thereof and an open top with an upper peripheral edge. A water source includes a hot water inlet and a cold water inlet each connected to a water outlet situated over the water basin for dispensing water therein. Next included is a pair of water control valves having a hot water control valve mounted between the hot water inlet and the water outlet and a cold water control valve mounted between the cold water inlet and the water outlet. The control valves each allow the adjustment of a flow of water therethrough, thereby permitting the control of a resultant water flow from the water outlet. A level indicator is mounted on an interior surface of the water basin to indicate a present level of water within the water basin between the drainage port and the upper peripheral edge thereof. Finally, a control panel includes buttons for adjusting the present level of the water within the water basin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Inventor: Clifford G. Stevens, II