Abstract: A system for supplying hot and cold water to users in a building, the system comprising: a first mode for supplying water to users; a second mode for preparing to supply water at a desired temperature by recycling water from the hot water pipe into the cold pipe; a faucet having a mixing chamber; a hot water inlet; a cold water inlet; an outlet; and a mechanism for adapting the system to various types of users including humans and appliances

Abstract: A system for supplying hot and cold water to an apartment/house. Recycling water from the hot into the cold water pipe comprises a faucet having adjustable first and second valves installed in the paths to hot and cold water inlets and third valve in the path to outlet. The valves are electrically controlled; circulating pump installed in the cold water pipe. When the first and second valves of at least one faucet are open and the third valve closed, activating the circulating pump will cause water from the hot water pipe to flow through the faucet to the cold water pipe; c. controller means for activating the three valves and the circulating pump in one of two modes of operation: in a first (circulation) mode, water circulation is accomplished by opening the first and second valves and closing the third valve.

Abstract: A hands-free device includes a sensor, a motor, a pilot valve, a gear train, an arm, and, an override control. The pilot motor opens the pilot valve when an activation signal is received from the sensor. The arm is coupled to the gear train, and the override control is coupled to the arm. The override control is capable of moving the arm between a locked and unlocked configuration.

Abstract: A hands-free device includes a sensor, a pilot valve assembly, an override control, and an electronic detent. Preferably, the pilot valve assembly allows a fluid to flow when an activation signal is received from the sensor. Preferably, the override control is coupled to the pilot valve assembly. The override control allows a continuous flow of fluids through an outlet port beyond the predetermined period of time. A method of controlling a continuous flow of water through a proximity faucet includes selecting a mode that allows water to flow continuously through a proximity sensor; locking a valve assembly to allow the water to flow beyond a period of time programmed within the proximity sensor; and providing an automatic and a mechanical system to discontinue the continuous flow of water.