Abstract: The present invention comprises an apparatus and system for automatic activation and de-activation of water flow to a sink, bathtub, shower, or similar plumbing fixture. It can be readily installed and operated safely using AC or DC power of varying voltage, even in locations in which electrical power sources are unreliable, inconsistent, or unstable. One or more normally closed solenoid valves, activated by way of a capacitance-sensitive electronic switch, control water flow. The switch functions in response to contact by a part of the human body with one or more touch-sensitive pads, which are designed to be resistant to malfunctions associated with the buildup of soap and scum. A programmable microprocessor periodically re-calibrates and resets the system to ensure accurate function and longevity. The manner and timing of water flow can be adjusted, and a by-pass is included to allow continued access to water in the event of power failure.

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.

Abstract: A plumbing device uses electronic control circuitry with two infrared emitters and one infrared receiver to detect objects in a particular region of space. In one embodiment, detection of an object using both sensors (in sequential scans) results in the plumbing device turning on. When no object has been detected for a certain amount of time, the plumbing device is turned off. Also, when the plumbing device has run for another certain amount of time, the plumbing device is turned off regardless of whether an object is still being detected. In another embodiment, the output of the IR emitters is partially blocked by one or more mask elements to tailor the region that is covered by both IR emitters and, hence, the region that triggers the opening of the plumbing device valve.

Abstract: A hands-free faucet comprises a spout, a valve, a position sensitive device, and a logical control. The position sensitive device is positioned on the user's side of the spout, and has a trigger zone and an extended zone, each defined in part by a distance range from the position sensitive device. The logical control comprises a manual mode, wherein the position sensitive device is deactivated and the valve remains open, and a hands-free mode, wherein the valve is opened when the position sensitive device detects an object within the trigger zone, and wherein the valve is closed only when the position sensitive device does not detect an object within the trigger zone and does not detect an object that is moving within the extended zone.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a touch or proximity sensitive device, specifically one which controls characteristics such as the temperature and flow rate of water or other liquids. An apparatus for controlling a flow characteristic of a flowing liquid by a user, the apparatus comprising a two-dimensional control surface for sensing the proximity of a user in two dimensions, means for determining a position of the user, and means for controlling the characteristic of the liquid responsive to said determining.

Abstract: The present invention provides an automatic hand washing system for original and retrofit residential and commercial installation and use. The automatic hand washing system dispenses a predetermined amount of soap and water to effectively clean the hands of a user in a short, predetermined amount of time, ensuring that sanitary protocols are followed while conserving natural resources. In this respect, the automatic hand washing system represents an automatic hand washing protocol compliance control system. Advantageously, the automatic hand washing system isolates the soap delivery path from the water delivery path until each is delivered to the hands of the user, preventing self-contamination, allowing the proper viscosity and flow of each to be maintained, eliminating the need for inefficient internal mixing mechanisms, etc.

Abstract: Automatic water faucet in accordance with the present invention comprises main body is formed with outlet and hot and cold water inlets; hot and cold water flow control valve is built in the upper part of main body and selects and controls hot and cold water flow rate; control handle for adjustment of hot and cold water flow control valve; object detector device is installed in front of main body and comprises light generator and receiver, operation indicator lamp, circuit board; electronic valve is installed and connected to the bottom of hot and cold water flow control valve automatically opens or closes outlet in accordance with the detector signal of object detector part; battery power supply supplies power to object detector part and electronic valve; and manual emergency lever is installed on the bottom of main body to be able to be rotated to enforce operation of electronic valve manually.

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 lavatory system is disclosed to include one or more integrated hand washing stations. Each hand washing station includes a basin, a faucet, a solenoid valve configured to control water flow to the faucet, and a electric hand dryer located adjacent the basin and the faucet so that the user of the washing station may use the faucet and the electric hand dryer without leaving the washing station. The electric hand dryer preferably includes an outlet to direct air across the associated basin so that any water that drips from the user's hands will fall within the basin. A control system may be provided to control activation of the fixtures such as the solenoid valve, the electric hand dryer, and/or soap dispenser. The control system may be configured, for example, to inhibit simultaneous activation of the solenoid valve and the hand dryer. A photovoltaic system may be provided to provide power to one or more of electrical fixtures.

Abstract: An ionic foot bath array for generating an ionic foot bath includes an upper rod support structure, at least one electrically non-conductive support structure leg depending downwards from the upper rod support structure and adapted to extend into and rest on the base wall of a basin in the water solution in which the ionic foot bath array is being placed and a plurality of generally cylindrical stainless steel ionic rods removably mounted and depending downwards from the upper rod support structure, each of the ionic rods having a diameter of at least one-half inch and extending generally parallel with one another in spaced-apart relationship in at least two generally parallel rows with at least one of the rows being positively charged and at least one of the rows being negatively charged.

Abstract: An ergonomic water conserving faucet assembly that pivots around a cognitive central point providing touchless water temperature, flow rate, volume control and spray pattern adjustment through multiple, hygienic means. The assembly comprises a pivotable, ergonomic, ball-shaped spout that may be used statically or hand held; a retractable water delivery hose connecting the spout to a water source; a water mixing valve at the water source delivering water of preselected temperature; solenoid valves controlling flow; proximity and object detection sensors mapping the sink area and detecting input signals; speech sensors with microphone for voice control; an LED display of water temperature; internal speakers delivering audible prompts; and an electronic controller recognizing speech and supervising operations.

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: 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: A method of controlling a flow of liquid includes calibrating a PSD infrared sensor associated with the spout. The calibrating includes turning on the spout to thereby dispense a stream of liquid from the spout and into a stream space; emitting infrared energy from the PSD infrared sensor and toward the stream of liquid; sensing a first position of the infrared energy after the infrared energy has been reflected back to the sensor from the stream of liquid; storing first information based upon the first position of the reflected infrared energy; turning off the spout to thereby inhibit the liquid from being dispensed from the spout; sensing a second position of the infrared energy after the infrared energy has been reflected back to the sensor from an object that is fixed relative to the sensor; and storing second information based upon the second position of the reflected infrared energy. Infrared energy is emitted from the PSD infrared sensor and toward the stream space.

Abstract: A dispensing system is disclosed which utilizes a controller in conjunction with a photodetector in order to provide automatic dispensing to a user when an object enters a target area. A controller is programmed to pulse a light source that is mounted proximate the photodetector. The controller constantly monitors the voltage at the receiving signal of the photodetector, and evaluates the difference in voltage from the light pulsed on and off. The controller sums the differences, and constantly updates the differences over a designated period to create an average difference value. The average difference value is summed with a target offset value and compared to a momentary voltage difference. When the momentary difference exceeds the sum of the target offset value and average difference, the controller sends a signal to a dispense mechanism which dispenses a fluid or other product on the object.

Abstract: A proximity faucet is provided that includes a housing, faucet and lever support portions and a peripheral housing wall with a spout portion having a neck extending outward from the housing wall and a fluid outlet at a free extent thereof. The faucet support portion accommodates an elongate shank extending downwardly therefrom and having at least one fluid supply conduit therein. The lever support portion receives a mixing cartridge therein that mixes cold and hot water delivered by the fluid supply conduit. The lever support portion supports a freely rotatable lever thereon. The lever is coupled to the mixing cartridge such that rotation of the lever adjusts the water temperature and flow rate. A sensor cover ring that is rotatably disposed adjacent the housing wall includes a reflective surface along an inner surface thereof that lies adjacent the housing wall.

Abstract: Disclosed is a plumbing fixture including an electrically actuated valve by means of which a water flow that penetrates the plumbing fixture can be turned on and off. A first switch that is embodied as a proximity switch is used for opening the valve and thus starting the water flow. The inventive plumbing fixture additionally comprises a mechanically actuated operator's element which is used for regulating another function of the plumbing fixture, such as the water temperature or the water quantity. A second switch that is used for electrically blocking the first switch is assigned to the mechanically actuated operator's element. For this purpose, the second switch is disposed so as to respond when the additional operator's element is manipulated.

Abstract: A soap dispenser, preferably a sink side counter mounted dispenser, to dispense foamed liquid soap by mixing in an outlet of a soap spout liquid, soap and air preferably provided from a liquid soap pump and a air pump located remote from the faucet.

Abstract: A fingerprint reader for a thumb disposed above an outlet for fluid and adapted to be engaged by an inside surface of a user's thumb extending upwardly relative to the palm of a user's hand while the user's hand extends generally horizontally forwardly from the thumb directed upwardly to receive fluid dispensed downwardly thereon to from a fluid dispensing outlet while the thumb engages the fingerprint reader.

Abstract: A proximity faucet is provided that includes a housing, faucet and lever support portions and a peripheral housing wall with a spout portion having a neck extending outward from the housing wall and a fluid outlet at a free extent thereof. The faucet support portion accommodates an elongate shank extending downwardly therefrom and having at least one fluid supply conduit therein. The lever support portion receives a mixing cartridge therein that mixes cold and hot water delivered by the fluid supply conduit. The lever support portion supports a freely rotatable lever thereon. The lever is coupled to the mixing cartridge such that rotation of the lever adjusts the water temperature and flow rate. A sensor cover ring that is rotatably disposed adjacent the housing wall includes a reflective surface along an inner surface thereof that lies adjacent the housing wall.

Abstract: The invention provides an improved automatic faucet for a lavatory unit of an aircraft. A body 110 of an automatic faucet 100 has on its lower left side (seen from the front) a liquid soap dispenser outlet 200, and the dispenser outlet 200 is connected to a liquid soap dispenser tank via a valve not shown. A reflective infrared sensor 210 for the liquid soap dispenser outlet and an LED light 230 for the liquid soap dispenser outlet are provided adjacent to the liquid soap dispenser outlet 200. When a user's hand is placed within the area of infrared waves 220, a predetermined amount of liquid soap is supplied over the user's hand. The LED light 230 is turned on to illuminate the user's hand. A water supply outlet 300 is provided at the lower right side of the body 110, which is connected to a water tank via a valve not shown. A reflective infrared sensor 310 for the water supply outlet and an LED light 330 for the water supply outlet are provided adjacent to the water supply outlet 300.

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 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: A capacitive sensing system and method for a hand washing lavatory system is disclosed. The lavatory system comprises a receptacle defining a hand washing area, a fixture configured to deliver water to the receptacle, and a capacitive sensing system configured to detect the presence of a user and actuate the fixture. The capacitive sensing system comprises a first sense electrode coupled to the receptacle and configured to measure a first capacitive value, a second sense electrode coupled to the receptacle spaced apart from the first sense electrode and configured to measure a second capacitive value, and a circuit configured to control operation of the fixture in response to a change in the first capacitive value relative to the second capacitive value.

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: A soap dispenser, preferably a sink side counter mounted dispenser, to dispense foamed liquid soap by mixing in an outlet of a soap spout liquid, soap and air preferably provided from a liquid soap pump and a air pump located remote from the faucet.

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.

Abstract: An manual activation mechanism for an electronic flushometer system. A manual activation or override plate has a sensor switch directly coupled thereto and is hingedly connected to a sensor bracket. When a user presses the manual activation or override plate, the sensor switch acts against a bumper, which is compressed to create an electrical contact with a printed circuit board. The electrical contact results in the transmission of an electrical signal to a solenoid system, actuating a flushometer valve.

Abstract: A facial washer is disclosed to include a basin, which has a plurality of water outlets symmetrically arranged on the inside wall thereof at two opposite lateral sides, a plurality of adjustable jet nozzles, which are respectively mounted in the water outlets inside the basin for ejecting a respective stream of water, each having a fixed ball socket and a ball valve rotatably supported in the ball socket for guiding water out of the respective water outlet in the form of a stream of water, and a control device for controlling the supply of water to the adjustable jet nozzles.

Abstract: An automatic faucet system includes a sensor and a controller. The sensor includes an emitter constructed and arranged to emit light having a first polarization toward an object. The sensor further includes a detector configured to detect light reflected from the object having a second polarization that is different from the first polarization. The controller is operatively coupled to the detector. The controller is configured to supply water to a faucet, or other water supply, upon sensing by the detector the light having the second polarization. By sensing in such a manner, the level of false positive readings in the system is reduced. The detector is further configured to determine the location of the object so that the faucet is only activated when the object is in close proximity to the faucet.

Abstract: A method for assessing improvement in hand hygiene practices using sanitation solution dispensers deployed within particular areas of interest in a healthcare facility or the like. Each of the dispensers has a counter associated therewith, with the counter producing a count indicative of actual events of a healthcare worker sanitizing his/her hands. Other data is acquired that impacts the number of anticipated hand sanitation events in this particular area of interest. From this data, a number of anticipated hand sanitation events is determined. Finally, a determination is made, from information obtained through actual observation, of the number of opportunities that healthcare workers will have for hand sanitation in the area of interest over a particular period of time.

Abstract: A hygiene appliance monitoring system for determining washroom element functional status and sequence of operation generally includes a plurality of wireless communication devices with a first number of the wireless communication devices being disposed within or adjacent washroom elements and operative for monitoring and reporting functional status and operation thereof. A second number of the wireless communication devices disposed in tags suitable for carrying by individuals. A third number of wireless communication devices being configured for recognizing a presence of the second number of wireless communication devices and differentiating distances between the third number of the wireless communication devices and the second number of wireless communication devices in order to determine if a washroom element associated with the one of the first number of wireless communication devices is to be ascribed to one of the tags and reporting thereon by an output signal.

Abstract: A hands-free faucet comprises a spout, a valve, a position sensitive device, and a logical control. The position sensitive device is positioned on the user's side of the spout, and has a trigger zone and an extended zone, each defined in part by a distance range from the position sensitive device. The logical control comprises a manual mode, wherein the position sensitive device is deactivated and the valve remains open, and a hands-free mode, wherein the valve is opened when the position sensitive device detects an object within the trigger zone, and wherein the valve is closed only when the position sensitive device does not detect an object within the trigger zone and does not detect an object that is moving within the extended zone.

Abstract: A multifunctional faucet has a dispensing faucet (2) for one or more fluids (18, 19), a sensor (3), a supply (10) for the fluids (18, 19) and a control (5). The multifunctional faucet (1) has at least one graphics-capable optical display (4), which is preferably arranged on the front side of the faucet head (36) and is connected to the control (5). The display (4) has a field display (29) or a display with a matrix of a plurality of luminous display elements.

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.

Abstract: A hands-free faucet comprises a proximity sensor, a logical control, a handle including a first touch control, a second touch control, and a mode indicator. The logical control has a manual mode (wherein the proximity sensor is inactive, and water flow is toggled on and off by positioning the handle) and a hands-free mode (wherein water flow is toggled on and off in response to the proximity sensor). The first touch control puts the faucet in the hands-free mode when touched by a user. The second touch control toggles the logical control between the hands-free mode and the manual mode when touched by a user. The mode indicator indicates which mode the faucet is presently in. The water flow has a temperature and a flow rate that are determined by the position of the handle.

Abstract: A valve with a smart handle including a memory module to log relevant data. A sensor on the handle determines when the valve is open, and this triggers the start of timers and recording of the “open” event in a log in the memory module. When the valve is closed, the sensor triggers stopping of the timers and recording of the “closed” event in the log. The timer information is used to calculate the duration of the time “open” event, and this, together with the actual date and time of the opening and closing of the valve are recorded in the log. Other relevant information, such as cylinder fill date, cylinder I.D. number, batch number, and patient name or account number may also be logged in the memory module. The log of the events and the corresponding dates and times may be used to prepare invoices for billing gas treatments, for inventory control, and for other record-keeping and control functions.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device (2) for controlling and/or regulating the supply of a medium using a supply unit for an impingement device. Said supply unit comprises at least one shut-off member and each shut-off member can be moved into a closed position and at least one open position by means of an actuating element. The device comprises a sensor unit (50) for determining in a contactless manner the presence of a material that is to be impinged by the medium. The inventive device (2) is characterized in that said sensor unit (50) is additionally configured for the contactless determination of the relative position of the material in relation to the impingement device (10) and for the output of signals, which act on the actuating elements in such a way that the later moves the shut-oft members into a position that corresponds with the presence and the location of the material to be impinged by the medium.

Abstract: An adapter for retrofitting a conventional gooseneck faucet to allow for touch-free activation. The sensor unit of the adapter is attached by simply passing it over the spout of the gooseneck faucet and towards the base of the faucet where it is locked in place by a clamp. Once in place, the sensor unit uses infrared light to sense the proximity of hands under the faucet. When hands are sensed, the control unit mounted under the sink will activate the faucet for as long as hands remain under the faucet.

Abstract: A faucet device includes a shank coupled to a water reservoir and having two outlets, a solenoid valve is coupled to one of the outlets of the shank, a faucet housing includes a chamber and includes an outlet spout. A valve casing is disposed in the faucet housing, and includes two passages coupled to the other outlet of the shank and an exit of the solenoid valve. An actuating device may selectively communicate either passage of the valve casing with the spout of the faucet housing, to allow the water from the shank and the solenoid valve to selectively flow out through the spout of the faucet housing, and to allow the faucet device to be selectively operated automatically or manually by users.

Abstract: An automatic faucet control device including an electromagnetic valve for opening and closing a flow channel of a faucet, a ray emitting device (5) for emitting infrared rays to a target to be detected, a ray receiving device (6) for receiving the infrared rays reflected by the target, a sensing decision device for the deciding presence or absence of the target by an output from the ray receiving device (6), and an electromagnetic valve controller for controlling the electromagnetic valve based on a signal from the sensing decision device. The ray emitting device (5) has a first polarizing plate (7) allowing a polarized light component to be transmitted, and the ray receiving device (6) has a second polarizing plate (8) for allowing a polarized light component different from the rays transmitted through the first polarizing plate (7) to be transmitted therethrough.

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 faucet comprising a spout, a passageway, an electrically operable valve; a first manual valve; a first manual handle; and a bypass. The passageway conducts water flow through the spout. The electrically operable valve is disposed within the passageway. The first manual valve disposed within the passageway in series with the electrically operable valve. The first manual handle that controls the first manual valve. The bypass has a first end above the electrically operable valve, relative to the water flow, and a second end below the electrically operable valve, such that a portion of the water flow bypasses the electrically operable valve.

Abstract: The invention provides a radio frequency (RF) valve control system that replaces mechanical systems that physically links a button or a handle to a flush valve or hard wired electronic control systems that physically links a sensor/electronic switch to a valve actuator within a plumbing installation. The new system is characterized by two modules, a user interface module (UIM) for locating at or adjacent a plumbing fixture (such as a water closet or urinal), and a valve interface module (VIM) operatively connected to a flush valve actuator or a valve in the water supply line of the plumbing fixture. The UIM generally has the function of providing an RF valve control signal to the VIM and the VIM has the functions of receiving, analysing, and responding to the RF valve control signal and sending a signal to the valve actuator to initiate a flush cycle or initiating a valve control process to control a valve within the water supply line to start or stop water flow to the fixture.

Abstract: A capacitive touch-controlled automatic faucet comprises: a spout, a magnetically latching valve, a proximity sensor, a handle, a capacitive touch-control, and a logical control. The proximity sensor is sensitive to motion of objects within a detection zone of the proximity sensor. The handle determines a water flow rate and temperature. The capacitive touch-control is positioned in the spout and generates an output signal while the touch-control is in contact with a user. The logical control receives the output signal, and toggles the magnetically latching valve when the output signal begins and ends within a period of time less than a predetermined threshold, but does not toggle the magnetically latching valve when the output signal persists for a period longer than the predetermined threshold. The faucet has a manual mode, wherein the proximity sensor is inactive, and a hands-free mode, wherein water flow is toggled in response to the proximity sensor.

Abstract: A method for monitoring compliance with recommended hand-washing practices is disclosed. The method involves detecting the occurrence of an event that is specified in a hand-washing rule. The method also involves determining whether a person who is involved in the event complies with the hand-washing rule. If the person does not comply with the hand-washing rule, the method may involve triggering a reminder alarm. The method may also involve determining whether the person washes his or her hands within a period of time subsequent to the reminder alarm. Compliance data that is related to compliance with the hand-washing rule may be updated.

Abstract: An external supply system includes a sensing device to provide flush water automatically, and a supply device to provide cleaning liquid. The supply device is connected to the sensing device to provide the flush water and the cleaning liquid. Thus, the supply device co-operates with the sensing device to provide the cleaning agent and the flush water synchronously, thereby facilitating the user washing and cleaning the object.

Abstract: An external supply system includes a sensing device to provide flush water automatically, and a supply device to provide cleaning liquid. The supply device is connected to the sensing device to provide the flush water and the cleaning liquid. Thus, the supply device co-operates with the sensing device to provide the cleaning agent and the flush water synchronously, thereby facilitating the user washing and cleaning the object.

Abstract: A method for calibrating automatic infrared sensing devices having control modules, an IR detector, and an IR emitter by using a select infrared emitter/detector pair to calibrate a plurality of control modules wherein an appropriate infrared emitter input value to the select infrared emitter is obtained to provide a given output from the select infrared detector in response to infrared radiation reflected from a known test object, and the appropriate infrared emitter input value is then determined and stored permanently in one or more control modules as a calibration standard.

Abstract: A control system is provided having a flow valve, a control valve for controlling flow through the flow valve, a logic circuit for receiving, processing, and transmitting data signals; a central control unit for receiving, processing, and transmitting data signals; and a flow valve actuator. When the flow valve actuator is actuated, the central control unit informs the logic circuit to permit the control valve to allow flow through the flow valve. However, if during a set time period, the flow valve actuator is actuated too often, subsequent actuation is disallowed for a second time period. Also, if during a shut down, subsequent actuation is disallowed. During the second time period or the shut down, any successive actuation is recorded by the central control unit.