Abstract: An automatic sensing system and a detecting method for use with plumbing equipment in the kitchen and washroom are shown and described. The automatic sensing system includes an ambient light sensor for detecting the ambient light intensity around the equipment. The system further includes a detecting sensor for detecting whether user enters the detected area. The system also includes a controller which controls the equipment based on detected signals from the detecting sensor. The controller is configured to start or change the state of the detecting sensor according to a detected value change of the ambient light intensity. The automatic sensing system advantageously saves power consumed by the detecting sensor when the ambient light sensor does not indicate use by the equipment.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A lavatory system has a cabinet including a base, a basin and a head extending above the basin. A water outlet/sensor is mounted in the head. A water supply line is connected to the water outlet. A solenoid valve in the water supply line controls the flow of water through the water supply line. A circuit board sends electrical signals to the solenoid valve for opening and closing the valve upon receipt of indications from a sensor as to whether a user hands is present or not. The solenoid valve, shut off valve, circuit board and sensor are mounted in the head with a sloped surface towards the basin. A manual shutoff valve mounted in the head is included in the supply line.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: An automatic flush actuation apparatus, which is incorporated with a flushing system having a water inlet, a water outlet, and a water chamber communicating therebetween, that includes a valve member being moved by a flush lever for releasing the water pressure within the water chamber to allow the water passing from the water inlet to the water outlet, and a sensor-operated powering assembly including a relief valve provided at the valve member for controlling the water flowing to the water outlet and an actuator arranged in such a manner that while sensing a presence of a user of the flushing system, the actuator is driven to move the relief valve to an opened position for releasing the water pressure within the water chamber to allow the water passing to said water outlet.

Abstract: An identification badge worn by an individual is sensed when that individual enters a lavatory. The individual is also provided with an indicator device which is worn on or about the hands. Inside the lavatory, there is also provided a hand cleaning station which includes one or more indicator readers that determines whether the indicator device is in close proximity and dispenses soap on the individual's hands, then provides an appropriate indication to a computer system. Should the badge sensor sense the individual's departure from the lavatory without an appropriate indication being generated by the indicator readers, a warning signal is generated, which is sent to the computer system and to an appropriate officer, who can then address the individual.

Abstract: A remote controlled valve for cessation of water flow from an outflow component such as a showerhead or faucet during periods where water flow is not required by the user to provide for water conservation. The device features a remote control having a large contact area for contact with the user's arm or leg or hip to allow for activation without the use of their hands and fingers. The large size also renders the remote control unit easily located by sense of touch and without the user's eyesight to encourage use by users who might otherwise be concerned about reinitiating water flow during shampooing or while using the device on a sink with their hands wet or occupied.

Abstract: A hands-free faucet comprises a proximity sensor, a logical control, a handle, a spout, and a touch control operably coupled to at least one of the spout and the handle.

Abstract: A pull-out wand is disclosed for use with a water delivery device. The pull-out wand may include one or more sensors, such as a touch sensor and/or a proximity sensor.

Abstract: A lavatory system having at least one wash station and at least one electrically operated fixture is disclosed. The lavatory system includes a control system for operating the at least one electrically operated fixture. The control system comprises a power supply system, a detection system, and a fixture actuation system. According to one embodiment, the detection system comprises a processor, a sensor configured to detect a user within a sensing region, and a sampling circuit configured to store a signal from the sensor that is used by the processor to activate the fixture. According to another embodiment, the power supply system includes a power source providing an output voltage for operating components of the control system, a detector monitoring the output voltage, and a switch for electrically disconnecting the power source from the components of the control system if the output voltage drops below a predetermined level.

Abstract: A faucet arrangement includes a sensing device for sensing a presence of a user of a spout. The sensing device includes an infrared emitter installed such that a direction of emission of the emitter is oriented an angle of approximately between 5 and 15 degrees relative to a vertical direction. A receiver receives a diffused infrared energy from the emitter. A control device is in communication with the receiver and controls a flow of liquid through the spout dependent upon an angle at which the diffused infrared energy is received by the receiver.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A bathroom flusher includes a body having an inlet in communication with a supply line and an outlet in communication with a flush conduit, a valve assembly in the body positioned to close water flow between the inlet and the outlet upon sealing action of a moving member at a valve seat thereby controlling flow from the inlet to the outlet, and an actuator for actuating operation of the moving member. The bathroom flusher includes one of several novel sensors and is controlled by one of several novel controllers, as described. The controller may execute a novel control algorithm.

Abstract: An electronic faucet comprises a spout having a passageway configured to conduct fluid flow through the spout, an electrically operable valve coupled to the passageway, and a single capacitive sensor coupled to a portion of the faucet. The single capacitive sensor provides both a touch sensor and a proximity sensor for the electronic faucet.

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.

Abstract: A faucet control system comprises a valve apparatus, sensors or a motion detector to be activated by a user, and a controller that controls the valve apparatus. A first sensor may start fluid flow and a second sensor may alter the proportion of fluids delivered from two fluid sources. The sensors may be activated without being touched and may include infrared and/or photodiode sensing elements. In a sink embodiment, when a user approaches the sink to wash hands, water flow is activated. Optionally, the initial water flow may be cold water, to prevent energy wastage. A second sensor may be placed elsewhere on the sink, such as on the left hand side of the faucet spout. Consequently, when the right hand, for example, is placed below the faucet spout, the water flow is activated with the first sensor.

Abstract: An electronic faucet includes a spout assembly having a sensor configured to control the flow of water therethrough in response to the position of a spray head. Methods and apparatus for providing strain relief for electrical cables used in systems configured to provide fluid and, in particular, to methods and apparatus used to provide strain relief for electrical cables in electronic faucets.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: An on-demand electronic faucet system for providing a faucet with a flow of water in response to a stimulus. A sensor unit is positioned remote from the faucet and in wireless communication with a wireless valve control unit. The wireless valve control unit controls a valve in the water supply line that feeds the faucet. In response to a stimulus, the sensor signals the wireless valve control unit to change the status of the valve in the water supply line from open to closed or closed to open and other states affecting flow and temperature.

Abstract: In a hand drying apparatus, an infrared light absorber absorbs infrared light, when a hand is not present, emitted from an infrared light emitter provided on an inner surface of a drying space.

Abstract: A drying apparatus has a casing, a cavity formed in the casing for receiving an object, and a fan located in the casing and creating an airflow. At least one slot-like opening communicates with the fan and is arranged in the casing so as to direct an airflow transversely across the cavity. The slot-like opening is formed between opposing walls which are manufactured from a thermosetting plastics material. By manufacturing the walls of the slot-like opening from a thermosetting plastic material such as melamine, the walls of the slot-like opening can be molded economically instead of machined from metal. The thermosetting plastic material is dimensionally stable when moulded, thermally resistant and impact resistant.

Abstract: A fluid control system, device and method are disclosed. The fluid control device is preferably configured to connect to an outlet of a fluid source. The fluid control device includes a valve, a sensor, a battery and a micro-generator. The sensor is used to measure or detect a condition and provide output signals that open and close the valve in response to a measured or detected condition. The micro-generator is positioned in a flow path of fluid and generates power from a flow of the fluid. The power generated from the micro-generator is stored in the battery and used to power later operations of the device. The device can be used for automating faucets, sprinklers and fire extinguishing equipment.

Abstract: An electronic faucet has controller is configured to selectively open and close a valve to provide fluid flow through the valve and a passageway of the faucet. The controller is programmed to monitor a maintenance condition of the electronic faucet and to selectively open and close the valve to generate a fluid flow pattern through the passageway to provide an indication to a user of an existing maintenance condition.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: An optical system includes one or several passive optical detectors sensitive to ambient (room) light for controlling, for example, the operation of automatic faucets or automatic bathroom flushers. The passive optical sensors provide signals to flow controllers, including control electronics and flow valves and require only very small amounts of electrical power for sensing users of bathroom facilities, and thus enable battery operation for many years. To control the operation of automatic faucets or automatic bathroom flushers based on ambient light, the controller executes novel algorithms.

Abstract: A fluid delivery device including a valve body fluidly coupled to an electrically insulating waterway assembly. The waterway assembly may include a molded base.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A faucet includes a main body and a water discharger having a water discharge port. The main body includes a first water supply channel placed therein and being communicative with a water supply piping; and a first electric component placed therein. The water discharger includes a second water supply channel placed therein, being communicative with the first water supply channel, and connected to the water discharge port; and a second electric component placed therein and being in electrical connection to the first electric component. The connection between the first electric component and the second electric component is made by wiring. The main body and the water discharger are detachable and capable of liquid-tight coupling to each other.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A hand washing timer with a sensor for assisting a user in washing his or her hands for a proper amount of time, for example in accordance with one or more health code regulations. The timer can also include a display, a solenoid valve, a pressure sensor, and/or a float valve.

Abstract: A control system for minimizing overall water use in a food waste handling system while maximizing flow rate when needed by controlling a flow of water into the handling system based on or in response to a physical presence of an operator. The control system substantially automatically senses, detects, or otherwise determines the presence of the operator, wherein such presence is assumptively associated with use of the waste handling system (i.e., the deposition of waste thereinto), and, in response to said presence, automatically controls the flow of water accordingly and for a pre-established period of time following cessation of said presence in order to facilitate the on-going handling process.

Abstract: A system for detecting an actual or impending overflow condition from a washroom fixture includes an overflow sensor configured with the fixture at a location to detect an abnormal rise in water level within the fixture before water overflows the fixture. A water sensor may also be disposed to detect an abnormal amount of water on the washroom floor. A data communications unit is in communication with the sensors. A washroom monitoring station is provided in wireless communication with the data communications unit and in communication with the sensors through the data communications unit. The washroom monitoring station is configured for indicating the presence of water when detected by the overflow or water sensors.

Abstract: A system for monitoring compliance with handwashing protocols by a plurality of workers, each worker carrying a wireless tag having a worker identifier, the monitoring being performed in a facility having a plurality of areas, the system comprising a plurality of wireless tag reader/transmitters each having an area identifier, at least one wireless tag reader/transmitter being positioned in each of the areas and each wireless tag reader/transmitter being capable of reading the worker identifier stored in the wireless tag when the worker is within range of the wireless tag reader/transmitter and further capable of transmitting the worker and area identifiers to at least one computing device; and at least one of said wireless tag reader/transmitters being disposed at a handwashing station; wherein the at least one wireless tag reader/transmitter reads the worker identifier when the worker manipulates a device at the handwashing station dispensing a washing substance and transmits the worker and area identifiers

Abstract: A flushing system with a sensing module, having at least one sensor and a controller circuit having a sensor detection and trigger sub-circuit operatively coupled to the at least one sensor, and a flushing mechanism operatively coupled to the motion sensing module.

Abstract: Disclosed is an actuating device for fixtures, particularly plumbing fixtures, comprising at least one input unit that is provided with a plurality of sensors which are connected to a control unit, and at least one drive unit for at least one closing device for at least one fluid pipe, especially a valve of a water pipe that can be controlled by means of the control unit. At least three sensors are arranged in a substantially regular manner essentially along a closed curve. The drive unit is triggered when signals of at least two adjacent sensors are detected.

Abstract: A faucet control system comprises a valve apparatus, sensors or a touch panel to be activated by a user, and a controller that controls the valve apparatus. A first sensor may start fluid flow and a second sensor may alter the proportion of fluids delivered from two fluid sources. Alternatively, a first sensor may initiate hot water flow, a second sensor may initiate cold water flow, and a third sensor may initiate flow of a mixture of hot and cold water to create a warm water flow. The sensors may be activated without being touched and may include infrared sensing elements. The touch panel may be activated with hand pressure and may include electrically conductive sheets. Alternatively, hot, cold and/or warm touch sensors may be provided separately. The touch panel may have a first portion for allowing fluid flow from a cold fluid source, a second portion for allowing fluid flow from the cold fluid source and a hot fluid source, and a third portion for allowing fluid flow from the hot fluid source.

Abstract: An anchor structure for sensors of faucets is located in a sensing faucet. The sensor has a detection side and at least one notch on another side opposite to the detection side at an elevation same as an annular groove formed on an inner wall of a faucet body. An elastic clipping ring is provided to latch in the annular groove and the notch of the sensor to form a bucking effect to anchor the sensor at a selected location in the faucet. The elastic clipping ring is hollow and annular to provide a passage for watering piping and electric wiring. The structure is simpler and can be installed and removed rapidly.

Abstract: A wave control circuit disclosed herein may be used to control the operation of various plumbing devices and appliances. The wave control circuit uses a sensor to sense presence of objects in the vicinity of the plumbing device and appliance using the wave control circuit and a control circuit to control the operation of the plumbing device or appliance.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: An electronic faucet (10) mounted on a countertop (12) includes a housing, at least one fluid inlet line (24a, 24b) extending into the housing, a fluid outlet (46) from the housing, a solenoid (142, 143) for operating a valve controlling the fluid flow between at least one inlet line and the outlet, and a control circuit (206) for controlling the opening and closing of the valve.

Abstract: A hands-free faucet comprises a proximity sensor, a logical control, a handle, a spout, and a touch control operably coupled to at least one of the spout and the handle.

Abstract: The faucet has a fitting body, which has a base (2) that is securable to a wash-stand or a building wall and a housing (3) that is detachably mounted on said base. The housing (3) has a housing (3) that has an outlet member (4) and a water outlet opening (5). An electrically operated valve (6) and a presence detector (7) are mounted on the base (2). The presence detector (7) is mounted in a receiving space (18) of the housing (3) on a holder (8) that has electric contacts (30, 31). The holder (8) is positioned so as to be mechanically and electrically detachable on a contact carrier (58) that is secured to the base (2) and has electric contacts (34, 35).

Abstract: A detection system for a washroom device evaluates outputs from an active sensor and a passive sensor to determine whether to activate the device (e.g., operate a valve in a sink or a lavatory). The active sensor has a transmitter that directs a light beam to a selected zone and a receiver that detects whether the light beam is reflected back to the sensor. The passive sensor detects changes in a temperature signature around the washroom device. A controller evaluates the outputs from both the active sensor and the passive sensor to determine how to operate the washroom device.

Abstract: A self-contained, modular electrically-operated faucets is disclosed which has all of its components which are likely to need replacement over the life of the device contained in removable modules which may be quickly and easily removed and replaced without necessitating the removal of the device from its installed location. The modular electrically-operated faucet of the present invention is configurable to be either deck mountable or wall mountable, and to allow either a conventional faucet spout or a gooseneck spout to be mounted thereupon. Optionally, when the modules of the modular electrically-operated faucet of the present invention are accessed for removal and replacement, the flow of water through the device may be automatically deactivated by merely removing the housing of the modular electrically-operated faucet.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a faucet having a first sensing arrangement adapted to detect a presence of one or more objects, in a first predetermined region, and adapted to turn a fluid flow on when the one or more objects is present, and further adapted to turn the flow off when the object is removed. Embodiments also include a second sensing arrangement adapted to detect a presence and/or a movement of one or more objects, in a second predetermined region and adapted to adjust a temperature of the fluid based on the presence, or movement of the one or more objects.

Abstract: An electronic faucet includes a spout assembly having a sensor configured to control the flow of water therethrough in response to the position of a spray head. Methods and apparatus for providing strain relief for electrical cables used in systems configured to provide fluid and, in particular, to methods and apparatus used to provide strain relief for electrical cables in electronic faucets.

Abstract: The present invention provides an automatic faucet with a movable cam assembly for mounting the senor and sensor window inside of the faucet body. The cam has an obliquely angled surface and can be moved up against a spring to provide space for assembling the sensor inside the faucet. Once the sensor is properly positioned, the spring drives the wedge-like cam back down to apply a holding force against the sensor and the window. Back pressure against the sensor or window can be absorbed to some extend by the spring to reduce the chance of damaging the window and/or sensor from impact.

Abstract: A hands-free faucet includes a sensing plate, a capacitor-based sensor circuit, a non-conductive valve housing, a non-conductive seating ring, and a conductive connector. Preferably, the capacitor-based sensor circuit is electrically connected to said sensing plate. Furthermore, the non-conductive valve housing preferably further comprises a valve inlet and valve outlet. Preferably, said non-conductive seating ring is located between the valve inlet and valve outlet, and is traversed by the conductive connector. In a preferred embodiment, the conductive connector is a metal pin.