Automatic faucets

An automatic faucet includes a housing constructed to receive at least one water inlet conduit and having a spout for delivering water. The automatic faucet includes a valve module, a sensor module, a battery module, a turbine module, and a control module. The valve module includes a valve controlled by an electromagnetic actuator for controlling the water flow from the spout. The sensor module is constructed to provide sensor data influenced by a user. The control module is constructed to control opening and closing of the valve by providing signals to the electromagnetic actuator. The control module is also constructed to receive sensor data from the sensor module and execute a sensing algorithm. The control module is also constructed to execute a power management algorithm for managing electrical power generated by the water turbine and provided to and from the battery.

Enclosures for automatic bathroom flushers

A bathroom flusher includes a flusher body, a valve assembly, an electronic control system, and a flusher cover. The flusher body includes an inlet and an outlet, and is designed to accommodate the valve assembly that controls water flow between the inlet and the outlet. The valve assembly includes a valve member movable with respect to a valve seat providing a sealing action based on applied pressure on the valve assembly. The bathroom flusher also includes an external cover designed for enclosing an electronic control module comprising a battery, a sensor, and an actuator for controlling operation of the flush valve, wherein the external cover includes at least two cover parts separately removable, and wherein the external cover is attachable with respect to the valve body in a manner also allowing removable attachment of the control module.

Passive sensors and control algorithms for faucets and bathroom flushers

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.

Automatic faucets

An automatic faucet includes a housing constructed to receive at least one water inlet conduit and having a spout for delivering water. The automatic faucet includes a valve module, a sensor module, a battery module, a turbine module, and a control module. The valve module includes a valve controlled by an electromagnetic actuator for controlling the water flow from the spout. The sensor module is constructed to provide sensor data influenced by a user. The control module is constructed to control opening and closing of the valve by providing signals to the electromagnetic actuator. The control module is also constructed to receive sensor data from the sensor module and execute a sensing algorithm. The control module is also constructed to execute a power management algorithm for managing electrical power generated by the water turbine and provided to and from the battery.

Automated water delivery systems with feedback control

A water delivery system includes a water input port, a control circuit, and a valve device. The water input port is constructed to be coupled to a water conduit receiving water from a remotely located water source. The valve device includes an actuator located near and connected to the water input port; wherein the valve device is constructed to receive control signals from the controller for providing water to a water delivery unit. The controller may be battery operated. The actuator may be a latching actuator, a non-latching actuator, or an isolated latching actuator. The controller may include a microcontroller coupled and to a sensor. The system may include a communication interface constructed and arranged to provide data to the microcontroller. The control circuit may include a power consumption controller. The control circuit includes a voltage regulator.

Electromagnetic apparatus and method for controlling fluid flow

An actuator including actuator base, bobbin, and pole piece forming a pocket for a ferromagnetic armature located therein. The actuator including a radial magnet and a solenoid coil constructed and arranged to cause a linear displacement of the armature upon application of a coil drive current from a control circuit. The actuator may include a flexible membrane that partially encloses the armature to form an armature chamber filled with an incompressible fluid. In a valve design, a fluid flow is stopped by driving the membrane against a valve seat. Pressure from the controlled fluid in the conduit is transmitted through the membrane to the fluid within the armature chamber so that the armature does not need to counteract force applied to the membrane by the conduit fluid's pressure. A fluid flow is opened by driving the membrane away from the valve seat.

Bathroom flushers with novel sensors and controllers

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.

Automatic bathroom flushers

An automatic 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, an actuator for actuating operation of the moving member, and a controller. 137-. (canceled)38. A valve device , comprising:a fluid input port and a fluid output port;a valve body defining a valve cavity and including a valve closure surface;an operator connected to a control circuitry constructed to control automatically operation of said operator; anda fram assembly including a fram member and a sliding seal acting on a surface of said cavity providing two pressure zones and being movable within said valve cavity with respect a guiding member; pressure in a first of said pressure zones being controlled by said operator and pressure in a second of said pressure zones being determined by fluid pressure from said fluid input port, said fram assembly being constructed to move to an open position enabling fluid flow from said fluid input port to said fluid output port upon reduction of pressure in said first of said pressure zones initiated by said operator; and being constructed to move to a closed position, upon increase of pressure in said first pressure zone, thereby closing said valve closure surface and preventing flow from said input port to said output port.3940-. (canceled)41. The valve device of claim 38 , wherein said operator includes a latching actuator.42. The valve device of claim 38 , wherein said operator includes a non-latching actuator.43. The valve device of claim 38 , wherein said operator includes an actuator having an isolation membrane for containing fluid inside a plunger cavity of said actuator.44. The valve device of wherein said fram member includes a pliable member and a stiff member claim 38 ...

Bathroom flushers with novel sensors and controllers

A tank-type flusher is located in the water storage tank for flushing a toilet. The tank-type flusher includes an intake valve and a flush valve. The intake valve is connected to an external water source and constructed to close water flow to the water storage tank at about a predefined water level in the water tank. The flush valve is constructed to control a flush valve member between a seated state and an unseated state allowing water discharge from the water tank into a toilet bowl. The tank-type flusher may be controlled by a sensor module located at a reference location external to the water storage tank. 1. A tank-type flusher comprising;an intake valve connected to an external water source and constructed to close water flow to a water storage tank at about a predefined water level in said water tank;a flush valve constructed to control a flush valve member between a seated state and an unseated state allowing water discharge from said water tank into a toilet bowl; anda sensor module located at a reference location external to said water storage tank; anda control circuitry including a controller constructed to provide to and receive signals from said sensor module and constructed to actuate said flush valve member for said water discharge based on said signals, said controller executing an algorithm including several predefined target states based on a user behavior within said sensing field of said optical sensor, said algorithm identifying said user initially moving in and thus entering a first of said predefined target states and progressing through a succession of said target states and later moving away from said optical sensor; said controller being programmed to issue a flush command to actuate said flush valve member for said water discharge only after a specific sequence of said target states, and said controller being programmed to delay issuance of said flush command if specific sequence of target states did not occur.2. The tank-type flusher of ...

Passive sensors for automatic faucets and bathroom flushers

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. 1. An optical sensor for controlling a valve of an electronic faucet or bathroom flusher , comprisingan optical element located at an optical input port and arranged to partially define a detection field;a light detector optically coupled to said optical element and said input port, said light detector being constructed to detect ambient light; anda control circuit for controlling opening and closing of a flow valve, said control circuit being constructed to receive signal from said light detector corresponding to the detected light.2. The optical sensor of wherein said control circuit is constructed to sample periodically said detector.3. The optical sensor of wherein said control circuit is constructed to sample periodically said detector based on the amount of previously detected light.4. The optical sensor of wherein said control circuit is constructed to determine said opening and closing of said flow valve based on a background level of said ambient light and a present level of said ambient light.5. The optical sensor of wherein said control circuit is constructed to open and close said flow valve based on first detecting arrival of a user and then detecting departure of said user.6. The optical sensor of wherein said control circuit is constructed to open and close said flow valve based on detecting presence of a user.7. ...

System and method for converting manually operated flush valves

A conversion system for converting an installed manually-operated flush valve used with a urinal or toilet is designed for automatic operation. The conversion system includes a power module, a control module, a driver module coupled to the manually-operated flush valve, and an optical sensor constructed to detect light arriving from a detection field. The control module is constructed to control activation of the driver module based on a signal from the optical sensor. 1. A conversion assembly for converting an installed manually-operated flush valve used with a urinal or toilet , comprising:a power module including a battery;a driver module arranged for mechanical coupling to a manual handle of said manually-operated flush valve;an optical module including an optical sensor and an optical element constructed to partially define a detection field and eliminate invalid targets; anda control module constructed to activate said driver module based on a signal from said optical sensor, wherein said driver module is constructed to provide a manual override by displacing said manual handle without activation from said control module.29-. (canceled)10. The conversion assembly of wherein said optical element includes a lens.1113-. (canceled)14. The conversion assembly of wherein said optical element includes a collimation plate.15. The conversion assembly of wherein said-collimation plate forms a gravity shutter.1619-. (canceled)20. A conversion assembly for converting an installed manually-operated flush valve used with a urinal or toilet claim 14 , comprising:a power module including a battery;a driver module arranged for mechanical coupling to a manual handle of said manually-operated flush valve, wherein said driver module includes an electromotor, powered by said battery, and an activation arm;an optical sensor; anda control module constructed to activate said driver module based on a signal from said optical sensor.21. The conversion assembly of wherein said ...

Automatic faucets

An automatic faucet includes a housing constructed to receive at least one water inlet conduit and having a spout for delivering water. The automatic faucet includes a valve module, a sensor module, a battery module, a turbine module, and a control module. The valve module includes a valve controlled by an electromagnetic actuator for controlling the water flow from the spout. The sensor module is constructed to provide sensor data influenced by a user. The control module is constructed to control opening and closing of the valve by providing signals to the electromagnetic actuator. The control module is also constructed to receive sensor data from the sensor module and execute a sensing algorithm. The control module is also constructed to execute a power management algorithm for managing electrical power generated by the water turbine and provided to and from the battery. 1. An automatic faucet comprising:a housing constructed to receive at least one water inlet conduit and having a spout for delivering water;a valve module including a valve controlled by an electromagnetic actuator for controlling the water flow from said spout;a sensor module constructed to provide sensor data influenced by a user;a control module constructed to control opening and closing of said valve by providing signals to said electromagnetic actuator, andsaid control module constructed to receive sensor data from said sensor module and execute a sensing algorithm that keeps track of noise signal level and dynamically adapts a signal threshold, said sensing algorithm tracking signal trend to determine presence of a user.2. The automatic faucet of claim 1 , wherein said control module is constructed to execute said sensing algorithm utilizing separate parameters for different power supply sources.3. The automatic faucet of claim 1 , wherein said sensor module includes a capacitive sensor.4. The automatic faucet of claim 3 , wherein said capacitive sensor includes a touch capacitive sensor.5. ...

Novel enclosures for automatic bathroom flushers

A bathroom flusher includes a flusher body, a valve assembly, an electronic control system, and a flusher cover. The flusher body includes an inlet and an outlet, and is designed to accommodate the valve assembly that controls water flow between the inlet and the outlet. The valve assembly includes a valve member movable with respect to a valve seat providing a sealing action based on applied pressure on the valve assembly. The bathroom flusher also includes an external cover designed for enclosing an electronic control module comprising a battery, a sensor, and an actuator for controlling operation of the flush valve, wherein the external cover includes at least two cover parts separately removable, and wherein the external cover is attachable with respect to the valve body in a manner also allowing removable attachment of the control module. 112-. (canceled)13. An automatic toilet room flush valve , comprising:a valve body including an inlet and an outlet and a valve seat inside said body;a valve member cooperatively arranged with said valve seat, said valve member being constructed and arranged to control water flow between said inlet and said outlet, movement of said valve member between open and closed positions being controlled by water pressure inside a pilot chamber; andan external cover defining a cavity designed for enclosing a battery, a sensor and an actuator for controlling operation of said flush valve, said external cover including a main cover body, a front cover and a top cover.1415-. (canceled)16. The flush valve of wherein said top cover is removable while maintaining said front cover including a sensor window located in place with respect to said main cover body.17. The flush valve of wherein said sensor is an optical sensor and said sensor window in an optical window.18. The flush valve of further constructed to adjust detection sensitivity of said sensor while maintaining said optical window located on said main cover body.19. The flush valve ...

Electromagnetic apparatus and method for controlling fluid flow

An actuator including actuator base, bobbin, and pole piece forming a pocket for a ferromagnetic armature located therein. The actuator including a radial magnet and a solenoid coil constructed and arranged to cause a linear displacement of the armature upon application of a coil drive current from a control circuit. The actuator may include a flexible membrane that partially encloses the armature to form an armature chamber filled with an incompressible fluid. In a valve design, a fluid flow is stopped by driving the membrane against a valve seat. Pressure from the controlled fluid in the conduit is transmitted through the membrane to the fluid within the armature chamber so that the armature does not need to counteract force applied to the membrane by the conduit fluid's pressure. A fluid flow is opened by driving the membrane away from the valve seat. 1. An electromagnetic actuator , comprising:a solenoid coil and an armature housing, providing an armature chamber, constructed and arranged to receive a movable armature including a distal part;a membrane arranged to enclose at least partially said distal part to seal armature fluid inside said armature chamber, said armature being constructed to control flow of fluid through a valve passage by a linear displacement of said distal part caused by a coil drive current applied to said solenoid coil thereby acting on said armature, said displacement of said distal part displaces said membrane with respect to said valve passage controlled by said actuator; anda radial magnet arranged to maintain said armature in a stationary position by a force of a magnetic field.2. The actuator of wherein said distal part of said armature is arranged to compress said membrane against a valve seat when closing said valve passage while said armature is disposed in its extended armature position.3. The actuator of further including an armature sensor constructed to detect displacement of said armature.4. The actuator of further including ...

Automatic faucets

An automatic faucet includes a housing forming partially an internal barrel and a faucet head and being constructed to include at least one water inlet conduit extending into said barrel and a water outlet for delivering water from a spout. The automatic faucet also includes a faucet head having a removable faucet crown and the spout, wherein the faucet crown is removably mounted to the faucet head. The automatic faucet also includes a valve module, a sensor module, a battery module, a turbine module, and a control module. The valve module includes a valve controlled by an electromagnetic actuator for controlling the water flow from the spout. The sensor module is constructed to provide sensor data influenced by a user. The control module is constructed to control opening and closing of the valve by providing signals to the electromagnetic actuator. The control module is also constructed to receive sensor data from the sensor module and execute a sensing algorithm. The control module is also constructed to execute a power management algorithm for managing electrical power generated by the water turbine and provided to and from the battery. 1. An automatic faucet , comprising:a housing forming partially an internal barrel and a faucet head and being constructed to include at least one water inlet conduit extending into said barrel and a water outlet for delivering water from a spout;a faucet crown removably mounted on said faucet head;a valve module including an electromagnetic actuator for controlling the water flow from the water outlet;a sensor module constructed to provide sensor data influenced by a user;a control module constructed to receive said sensor data from said sensor module; andsaid internal barrel and said faucet head being constructed and arranged to releasably enclose and retain said valve module, said sensor module and said control module.2. The automatic faucet of claim 1 , wherein said control module is located on a circuit board removably ...

Valve actuator having small isolated plunger

A solenoid plunger ( 36 ) is disposed for reciprocation in a plunger pocket that is formed by the stationary parts of a solenoid-type actuator ( 10 ). A flexible diaphragm ( 22 ) closes the plunger pocket's open mouth and is deformed by movement of a plunger ( 36 ) between an open position, in which it is displaced from a valve seat ( 20 ), and a closed position, in which it is seated on the valve seat and thereby prevents flow from a valve inlet ( 16 ) to a valve outlet ( 18 ). The diaphragm thereby isolates the plunger from the fluid thereby being controlled, but a separate, incompressible fluid fills the chamber in which the plunger reciprocates. A through-plunger passage ( 44, 56 ) provides a low-flow-resistance path for the incompressible fluid to flow into and out of the portion ( 52 ) of the plunger chamber behind the plunger as the plunger moves. This reduces actuation time and thus the energy required for an actuation. The chamber in which the plunger reciprocates is formed by elements ( 22, 26, 32, and 34 ) through which the incompressible fluid can diffuse only very slowly, so the actuator can be long-lived even if it small in size.

Electronic faucets for long-term operation

An electronic faucet ( 10 ) mounted on a countertop ( 12 ) includes a housing, at least one fluid inlet line ( 24 a , 24 b ) 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.

Bathroom flushers with novel sensors and controllers

A bathroom flusher ( 10 ) includes a body having an inlet ( 12 ) in communication with a supply line and an outlet ( 16 ) 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 ( 60, 60 A, 60 B, 60 C, 130, 210, 215, 526 , or 628 ) at a valve seat ( 70, 70 A, 140, 209, 251 A, 526 or 625 ) thereby controlling flow from the inlet to the outlet, and an actuator ( 62 ) 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 controllers may execute a novel control algorithm.

Enclosures for automatic bathroom flushers

A bathroom flusher includes a flusher body, a valve assembly, an electronic control system, and a flusher cover. The flusher body includes an inlet and an outlet, and is designed to accommodate the valve assembly that controls water flow between the inlet and the outlet. The valve assembly includes a valve member movable with respect to a valve seat providing a sealing action based on applied pressure on the valve assembly. The bathroom flusher also includes an external cover designed for enclosing an electronic control module comprising a battery, a sensor, and an actuator for controlling operation of the flush valve, wherein the external cover includes at least two cover parts separately removable, and wherein the external cover is attachable with respect to the valve body in a manner also allowing removable attachment of the control module.

Leak Detector

A leak detector for detecting flow of at least partially conductive fluid includes two electrodes and an electrical circuit. A valve device including an actuator is constructed to receive open and close signals for opening and closing the valve device between an input port and an outer port. The two electrodes are located on opposite sides of the valve device and are electrically isolated from each other in absence of the liquid flowing between the input port and the output port. The electrical circuit measures an electrical property between the electrodes. The leak detector is suitable for a multizone irrigation system that includes a central control unit having a central control system interfaced with a central valve and a central communication unit. The central valve regulates water flow for irrigation from a water source and can lower water pressure in the pipes at its output. The central communication unit is constructed to transmit or receive pressure based communication signals providing irrigation information. Each zone includes a sprinkler control unit having a sprinkler connected to a water pipe for irrigation.

Passive sensors for automatic faucets and bathroom flushers

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.

Automatic bathroom flushers

An automatic 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, an actuator for actuating operation of the moving member, and a controller.

Automatic bathroom flusher cover

Passive sensors for automatic faucets and bathroom flushers

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.

Enclosure for automatic bathroom flusher

Enclosure for automatic bathroom flusher

Enclosure for automatic bathroom flusher

Enclosure for automatic bathroom flusher

Passive sensors and control algorithms for faucets and bathroom flushers

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.

Automatic bathroom flushers

An automatic bathroom flusher includes a flusher body, a valve assembly, an electronic control system, and a flusher cover. The flusher body includes an inlet and an outlet, and is designed to accommodate the valve assembly that controls water flow between the inlet and the outlet. The valve assembly includes a valve member movable with respect to a valve seat providing a sealing action. The bathroom flusher may include a user sensor, and one or more photovoltaic cells for supplying electrical power to the electronic control system. The bathroom flusher enables two or multiple flush volumes in automatic or manual modes, depending on a user action. The bathroom flusher may include a user interface including a button and visible LEDs.

Automatic faucets

An automatic faucet includes a housing forming partially an internal barrel and a faucet head and being constructed to include at least one water inlet conduit extending into said barrel and a water outlet for delivering water from a spout. The automatic faucet also includes a faucet head having a removable faucet crown and the spout, wherein the faucet crown is removably mounted to the faucet head. The automatic faucet also includes a valve module, a sensor module, a battery module, a turbine module, and a control module. The valve module includes a valve controlled by an electromagnetic actuator for controlling the water flow from the spout. The sensor module is constructed to provide sensor data influenced by a user. The control module is constructed to control opening and closing of the valve by providing signals to the electromagnetic actuator. The control module is also constructed to receive sensor data from the sensor module and execute a sensing algorithm. The control module is also constructed to execute a power management algorithm for managing electrical power generated by the water turbine and provided to and from the battery.

Ferromagnetic/fluid valve actuator

A solenoid plunger ( 36 ) is disposed for reciprocation in a plunger pocket that is formed by the stationary parts of a solenoid-type actuator ( 10 ). A flexible diaphragm ( 22 ) closes the plunger pocket's open mouth and is deformed by movement of a plunger ( 36 ) between an open position, in which it is displaced from a valve seat ( 20 ), and a closed position, in which it is seated on the valve seat and thereby prevents flow from a valve inlet ( 16 ) to a valve outlet ( 18 ). The diaphragm thereby isolates the plunger from the fluid thereby being controlled, but a separate, incompressible fluid fills the chamber in which the plunger reciprocates. A through-plunger passage ( 44, 56 ) provides a low-flow-resistance path for the incompressible fluid to flow into and out of the portion ( 52 ) of the plunger chamber behind the plunger as the plunger moves. This reduces actuation time and thus the energy required for an actuation. The chamber in which the plunger reciprocates is formed by elements ( 22, 26, 32 , and 34 ) through which the incompressible fluid can diffuse only very slowly, so the actuator can be long-lived even if it small in size.

Ferromagnetic/fluid valve actuator

An actuator base ( 16 ), bobbin ( 14 ), and pole piece ( 24 ) form a pocket for an armature ( 30 ) that a flexible membrane ( 40 ) encloses to form an armature chamber filled with an incompressible fluid. The membrane ( 40 ) protects the armature ( 30 ) from exposure to corrosive fluids flowing in a conduit ( 44 ). Conduit flow can be stopped by driving the membrane ( 40 ) against a valve seat ( 54 ). Pressure from the fluid in the conduit ( 44 ) is transmitted though the membrane to the fluid within the armature chamber so that the armature does not need to counteract force applied to the membrane ( 40 ) by the conduit fluid's pressure.

Electronic faucets for long-term operation

An electronic faucet ( 10 ) mounted on a countertop ( 12 ) includes a housing, at least one fluid inlet line ( 24 a , 24 b ) 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.

Electronic faucets for long-term operation

An electronic faucet ( 10 ) mounted on a countertop ( 12 ) includes a housing, at least one fluid inlet line ( 24 a , 24 b ) 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.

Bathroom flushers with novel sensors and controllers

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.

Valve actuator having small isolated plunger

A solenoid plunger ( 36 ) is disposed for reciprocation in a plunger pocket that is formed by the stationary parts of a solenoid-type actuator ( 10 ). A flexible diaphragm ( 22 ) closes the plunger pocket's open mouth and is deformed by movement of a plunger ( 36 ) between an open and closed positions. The diaphragm thereby isolates the plunger from the fluid thereby being controlled, but a separate, incompressible fluid fills the chamber in which the plunger reciprocates. A through-plunger passage ( 44, 56 ) provides a low-flow-resistance path for the incompressible fluid to flow into and out of the portion ( 52 ) of the plunger chamber behind the plunger as the plunger moves. This reduces actuation time and thus the energy required for an actuation. The chamber in which the plunger reciprocates is formed by elements ( 22, 26, 32, and 34 ) through which the incompressible fluid can diffuse only very slowly, so the actuator can be long-lived even if it small in size.

Passive sensors for automatic faucets

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.

Passive sensors for automatic faucets and bathroom flushers

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.

Automatic bathroom flushers with modular design

A bathroom flusher includes a flusher body, a valve assembly, an electronic control system, and a flusher cover. The flusher body includes an inlet and an outlet, and is designed to accommodate the valve assembly that controls water flow between the inlet and the outlet. The valve assembly includes a valve member movable with respect to a valve seat providing a sealing action based on applied pressure on the valve assembly. The bathroom flusher also includes an external cover designed for enclosing an electronic control module comprising a battery, a sensor, and an actuator for controlling operation of the flush valve, wherein the external cover includes at least two cover parts separately removable, and wherein the external cover is attachable with respect to the valve body in a manner also allowing removable attachment of the control module.

Enclosures for automatic bathroom flushers

A bathroom flusher includes a flusher body, a valve assembly, an electronic control system, and a flusher cover. The flusher body includes an inlet and an outlet, and is designed to accommodate the valve assembly that controls water flow between the inlet and the outlet. The valve assembly includes a valve member movable with respect to a valve seat providing a sealing action based on applied pressure on the valve assembly. The bathroom flusher also includes an external cover designed for enclosing an electronic control module comprising a battery, a sensor, and an actuator for controlling operation of the flush valve, wherein the external cover includes at least two cover parts separately removable, and wherein the external cover is attachable with respect to the valve body in a manner also allowing removable attachment of the control module.

Bathroom flushers with novel sensors and controllers

A bathroom flusher (10) includes a body having an inlet (12) in communication with a supply line and an outlet (16) 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 (60, 60A, 60B, 60C, 130, 210, 215, 526 or 628) at a valve seat (70, 70A, 140, 209, 251A, 526 or 625) thereby controlling flow from the inlet to the outlet, and an actuator (62) 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 controllers may execute a novel control algorithm.

Passive sensors for automatic faucets and bathroom flushers

A passive optical sensor includes a light detector sensitive to ambient (room) light for controlling, for example, the operation of automatic faucets (10, 10A, 10B, 10C) or automatic bathroom flushers (100, 100A). The passive optical sensors provide signals to flow controllers, including control electronics (400) and flow valves (38, 140) 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 (600, 900).

Automated water delivery systems with feedback control

A water delivery unit (10) for irrigation having a water input port (22) coupled to a water conduit, a controller (60) connected to a sensor, a valve device having an actuator (80) and receiving control signals from the controller for providing water to a water delivery unit.

Automatic bathroom flushers

Published without an

Bathroom flushers with novel sensors and controllers

A bathroom flusher (10) includes a body having an inlet (12) in communication with a supply line and an outlet (16) 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 (60, 60A, 60B, 60C, 130, 210, 215, 526 or 628) at a valve seat (70, 70A, 140, 209, 251A, 526 or 625) thereby controlling flow from the inlet to the outlet, and an actuator (62) 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 controllers may execute a novel control algorithm.

Enclosure for automatic bathroom flusher

Electronic faucets for long-term operation

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.

System and method for converting manually-operated flush valve

Disclosed is a method and system for converting or retrofitting manually operated flush valves. A conversion system for converting an installed manually-operated flush valve includes a power module, a control module, and a driver module mechanically coupled to a displacement member arranged to externally activate the converted flush valve.

Automatic faucets

An automatic faucet includes a housing forming partially an internal barrel and a faucet head and being constructed to include at least one water inlet conduit extending into said barrel and a water outlet for delivering water from a spout. The automatic faucet also includes a faucet head having a removable faucet crown and the spout, wherein the faucet crown is removably mounted to the faucet head. The automatic faucet also includes a valve module, a sensor module, a battery module, a turbine module, and a control module. The valve module includes a valve controlled by an electromagnetic actuator for controlling the water flow from the spout. The sensor module is constructed to provide sensor data influenced by a user. The control module is constructed to control opening and closing of the valve by providing signals to the electromagnetic actuator. The control module is also constructed to receive sensor data from the sensor module and execute a sensing algorithm. The control module is also constructed to execute a power management algorithm for managing electrical power generated by the water turbine and provided to and from the battery.

Novel enclosures for automatic bathroom flushers

A bathroom flusher includes a flusher body, a valve assembly, an electronic control system, and a flusher cover. The flusher body includes an inlet and an outlet, and is designed to accommodate the valve assembly that controls water flow between the inlet and the outlet. The valve assembly includes a valve member movable with respect to a valve seat providing a sealing action based on applied pressure on the valve assembly. The bathroom flusher also includes an external cover designed for enclosing an electronic control module comprising a battery, a sensor, and an actuator for controlling operation of the flush valve, wherein the external cover includes at least two cover parts separately removable, and wherein the external cover is attachable with respect to the valve body in a manner also allowing removable attachment of the control module.

Automatic bathroom flushers

An automatic 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, an actuator for actuating operation of the moving member, and a controller.

System and method for converting manually operated flush valves

Disclosed is a method and system for converting or retrofitting manually-operated flush valves. A conversion system for converting an installed manually-operated flush valve includes a power module, a control module, and a driver module mechanically coupled to a manual handle to externally activate the converted flush valve.

Bathroom flushers with novel sensors and controllers

A bathroom flusher (10) includes a body having an inlet (12) in communication with a supply line and an outlet (16) 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 (60, 60A, 60B, 60C, 130, 210, 215, 526 or 628) at a valve seat (70, 70A, 140, 209, 251A, 526 or 625) thereby controlling flow from the inlet to the outlet, and an actuator (62) 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 controllers may execute a novel control algorithm.

Toilet flusher for water tanks with novel valves and dispensers

Optical sensors and algorithms for controling automatic bathroom flushers and faucets

An automatic toilet room flusher (100) includes a valve having a valve body (512) and, a valve member, and a controller (500). The valve body includes a n inlet 112, an outlet 113, and a valve seat inside the body. The valve member (e.g., a flexible diaphragm, a piston or a fram piston) is cooperatively arranged with the valve seat. The valve member is constructed and arranged t o control water flow between the inlet and the outlet. The flusher may include a passive optical sensor or an active optical sensor. The active optical senso r includes a light emitter and a light detector. The passive optical sensor includes only a light detector sensitive to ambient (room) light for providi ng a signal to a controller. The controller executes one or several novel algorithms.

Automatic faucets.

Un grifo automático incluye un alojamiento que forman parcialmente un barril interno y una cabeza del grifo y siendo construido para incluir por lo menos un conducto de entrada de agua que se extiende en el barril y una salida de agua para suministrar agua de una boca. El grifo automático también incluye una cabeza de grifo que tiene una corona de grifo removible y la boca, en donde la corona del grifo se monta removiblemente a la cabeza del grifo. El grifo automático también incluye un módulo de válvula, un módulo de sensor, un módulo de batería, un módulo de turbina y un módulo de control. El módulo de válvu1a incluye una válvula controlada por un accionador electromagnético para controlar el flujo de agua de la boca. El módulo de sensor se construye para proveer datos de sensor influenciados por un usuario. El módulo de control se construye para controlar la apertura y cierre de la válvula proporcionando señales al accionador electromagnético. El módulo de control también se construye para recibir datos de sensor del módulo de sensor y ejecutar un algoritmo de captación. El módulo de control también se construye para ejecutar un algoritmo de manejo de potencia para manejar la potencia eléctrica generada por la turbina de agua y siendo provista hacia y desde la batería.

Automatic bathroom flushers

An automatic 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, an actuator for actuating operation of the moving member, and a controller.

Optical sensors and algorithms for controling automatic bathroom flushers and faucets

An automatic toilet room flusher (100) includes a valve having a valve body (512) and, a valve member, and a controller (500). The valve body includes an inlet 112, an outlet 113, and a valve seat inside the body. The valve member (e.g., a flexible diaphragm, a piston or a fram piston) is cooperatively arranged with the valve seat. The valve member is constructed and arranged to control water flow between the inlet and the outlet. The flusher may include a passive optical sensor or an active optical sensor. The active optical sensor includes a light emitter and a light detector. The passive optical sensor includes only a light detector sensitive to ambient (room) light for providing a signal to a controller. The controller executes one or several novel algorithms.

Passive sensors and control algorithms for faucets and bathroom flushers

An optical system includes one or several passive optical detectors sensitive to ambient (room) light for controlling, for example, the operation of automatic faucets (9, 9A,10, 10A, 1 OB, 1 OC) or automatic bathroom flushers (100, 100A). The passive optical sensors provide signals to flow controllers, including control electronics (250) and flow valves (38, 140) 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 (300, 600, 900 or 1300).

Optical sensors and algorithms for controling automatic bathroom flushers and faucets

An automatic toilet room flusher (100) includes a valve having a valve body (512) and, a valve member, and a controller (500). The valve body includes an inlet 112, an outlet 113, and a valve seat inside the body. The valve member (e.g., a flexible diaphragm, a piston or a fram piston) is cooperatively arranged with the valve seat. The valve member is constructed and arranged to control water flow between the inlet and the outlet. The flusher may include a passive optical sensor or an active optical sensor. The active optical sensor includes a light emitter and a light detector. The passive optical sensor includes only a light detector sensitive to ambient (room) light for providing a signal to a controller. The controller executes one or several novel algorithms.

Optical sensors and algorithms for controling automatic bathroom flushers and faucets

Automatic faucets.

Un grifo automático incluye un alojamiento que forman parcialmente un barril interno y una cabeza del grifo y siendo construido para incluir por lo menos un conducto de entrada de agua que se extiende en el barril y una salida de agua para suministrar agua de una boca. El grifo automático también incluye una cabeza de grifo que tiene una corona de grifo removible y la boca, en donde la corona del grifo se monta removiblemente a la cabeza del grifo. El grifo automático también incluye un módulo de válvula, un módulo de sensor, un módulo de batería, un módulo de turbina y un módulo de control. El módulo de válvu1a incluye una válvula controlada por un accionador electromagnético para controlar el flujo de agua de la boca. El módulo de sensor se construye para proveer datos de sensor influenciados por un usuario. El módulo de control se construye para controlar la apertura y cierre de la válvula proporcionando señales al accionador electromagnético. El módulo de control también se construye para recibir datos de sensor del módulo de sensor y ejecutar un algoritmo de captación. El módulo de control también se construye para ejecutar un algoritmo de manejo de potencia para manejar la potencia eléctrica generada por la turbina de agua y siendo provista hacia y desde la batería.

Automatically operated handle-type flush valve

A toilet room flush valve for use in flushing toilets and urinals includes a valve body having a water inlet and a water outlet. There is a valve within the body for controlling flow between the inlet and the outlet. A handle is mounted on the valve body for pivotal movement about a handle axis to operate the valve. There is an assembly mounted on the valve body for causing sensor initiated movement of the handle, which assembly includes a motor driven handle interface pivotally mounted on the valve body for movement about the handle axis and having a portion thereof positioned to contact and pivotally move the handle. A drive motor is mounted on the valve body and connected to the interface to cause pivotal movement thereof. A battery for operating the drive motor is connected to a sensor mounted on the valve body, with the sensor being connected to cause the application of battery power to the drive motor.

Electromagnetic apparatus and method for controlling fluid flow

An actuator (10A) including actuator base (18), bobbin (14), and pole piece (25) forming a pocket for a ferromagnetic armature (80) located therein. The actuator (10A) including a radial magnet (23) and a solenoid coil (28). The solenoid coil (28) is constructed and arranged to cause a linear displacement of the armature (80) upon application of a coil drive current from a control circuit. The actuator (10A) may include a flexible membrane (90) that partially encloses the armature (80) to form an armature chamber filled with an incompressible fluid. In a valve design, a fluid flow is stopped by driving the armature (80) to an extended position and thus the membrane (90) against a valve seat (104). The fluid flow is opened by driving the armature (80) and the membrane (90) away from the valve seat (104) into a retracted position.

Electromagnetic apparatus and method for controlling fluid flow

An actuator including actuator base, bobbin, and pole piece forming a pocket for a ferromagnetic armature located therein. The actuator including a radial magnet and a solenoid coil. The solenoid coil is constructed and arranged to cause a linear displacement of the armature upon application of a coil drive current from a control circuit. The actuator may include a flexible membrane that partially encloses the armature to form an armature chamber filled with an incompressible fluid. In a valve design, a fluid flow is stopped by driving the armature to an extended position and thus the membrane against a valve seat. The fluid flow is opened by driving the armature and the membrane away from the valve seat int o a retracted position.

System and method for converting manually operated flush valves

Disclosed is a method and system for converting or retrofitting manually-operated flush valves. A conversion system for converting an installed manually-operated flush valve includes a power module, a control module, and a driver module mechanically coupled to a manual handle to externally activate the converted flush valve.

Automated water delivery systems with feedback control

A water delivery unit (10) for irrigation having a water input port (22) coupled to a water conduit, a controller (60) connected to a sensor, a valve device having an actuator (80) and receiving control signals from the controller for providing water to a water delivery unit.

Electrically operated valve for delivering water

An electrically operated valve for delivering water includes a valve body, a valve closure element and an electromagnetic actuator. The valve body has a water inlet and a water outlet. The valve closure element is located within the valve body and is constructed to move between an open state enabling water flow from the inlet to the outlet and a closed state preventing the water flow from the inlet to the outlet. The electromagnetic actuator is attached to move with the valve element including a sealing member. A pilot mechanism is constructed to control the movement of the valve element between the open state and the closed state based on a position of the sealing member.

Automated water delivery systems with feedback control

Automatische spüleinrichtung für badezimmer

Passive sensoren für automatische wasserhähne und spüleinrichtungen für badezimmer

Multi-way valve employing two-state operator

A land ( 56 ) on an index member ( 32 ) disposed in the interior chamber of a manifold ( 38 ) is aligned with an actuating member ( 34 ) and thereby holds open a check valve ( 36 ) through which fluid flows into the manifold's interior chamber, through a control valve ( 12 ), and out a manifold outlet ( 74 ). At the same time, another actuating pin ( 42 ) is so aligned with a recess ( 58 ) in the indexing member ( 32 ) as to permit another check valve ( 44 ) to prevent flow through itself into the manifold chamber. When the control valve is closed, flow stops, and pressure builds up in the manifold chamber. The index member ( 32 ) is accordingly driven against the force of a bias spring ( 48 ) to a lower position, in which a lower cam-follower surface ( 82 ) engages a lower cam surface ( 84 ). That engagement rotates the index member to a position in which it permits pressure to be communicated through both check valves ( 36 and 44 ) into the manifold chamber. When the control valve ( 12 ) reopens and thereby again relieves the pressure within the manifold chamber, the return of the index member ( 32 ) to the upper position causes an upper cam-follower surface ( 52 ) to engage cam pins ( 54 ). Those pins thereby cam the index member ( 32 ) to a new position, in which it opens the left check valve ( 44 ) and allows the right check valve ( 36 ) to close. By thus alternately operating the control valve ( 12 ) between its two, open and closed positions, the system is advanced through a sequence of three different flow states.

Automatic bathroom flushers

An automatic bathroom flusher (10) comprising: a body having an inlet (12) and an outlet (32), a valve assembly in said body positioned to close water flow between said inlet and outlet upon sealing action of a moving member (28) at a valve seat (30) thereby controlling flow from said inlet (12) to said outlet (32), an actuator (40) (fig. 2A) for actuating operation of said moving member (28) and a controller coupled to a power driver constructed to provide a drive signal to said actuator.