CN119083544A - Interchangeable faucet design components - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure provides an interchangeable faucet design assembly, and in particular, provides an interchangeable touchless faucet system for use with interchangeable spouts, and related methods for replacing interchangeable faucets. The interchangeable faucet design generally includes coupling variations of spouts that can be easily attached to and detached from a sensor disc. Fluid from a mixing valve coupled to hot and cold water lines passes through the sensor disc and is delivered through one of the interchangeable spouts, and when a sensor integrated with the sensor disc is activated by a user (e.g., waving a hand near the sensor), the fluid is dispensed to a basin, sink, bathtub, etc.

Description

Interchangeable faucet design assembly

Cross Reference to Related Applications

The present application claims the benefit of chinese patent application number 202310664684.4 filed on 6/2023, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of kitchen fixtures. In particular, the present disclosure relates to flexible faucet interchangeability.

Background

The present disclosure relates generally to electronically controlled faucets that are activated by detecting the presence of an object in front of the faucet near a location below a faucet spout, and more particularly to an improved interchangeable faucet spout having all or most of the components that may require replacement or maintenance during use of the device contained in an easily accessible module that is quickly and easily accessed and does not require removal of the device from its installed location. In general, the body, outlet pipe and/or neck of the faucet, valve means for regulating the flow rate and mixing of hot and cold water, cover the ornamental features of the faucet. The body or outlet tube may be externally shaped, machined or otherwise treated and, together with one or more handles of the adjustment device (in the case of manual actuation), define the ornamental appearance and function of the faucet.

While faucet spout assemblies are widely used in homes, industries, scientific laboratories, hospitals, etc., electronic faucets have recently become more common in restrooms of public and commercial buildings. Such electronic faucets are activated by a user placing his or her hand in proximity to a sensor positioned to detect when the user's hand is in a position proximate to the outlet pipe of the faucet. The electronic faucet activates the water flow when the sensor detects the user's hand, and typically stops the water flow a few seconds after the user's hand is no longer detected as being near the faucet outlet pipe, thereby eliminating the need for the user to make physical contact with the faucet for use of the faucet. Such an electronic faucet effectively prevents the spread of bacteria by eliminating the need for physical contact by the user with the faucet.

Early developments of electronically controlled faucets relied on the use of cumbersome sensors, which made it necessary to locate these components outside of the faucet itself. Some improvements in the optical components have led to the adaptation of the infrared sensor to the same use, whereas the infrared sensor is located in the faucet itself. Many electronically controlled faucets are implemented by placing at least some of the components external to the faucet, with only an infrared sensor (infrared light source, typically an infrared light emitting diode ("LED"), and a reflected infrared light detector, typically an infrared light detecting photodiode) generally located in the faucet assembly. Thus, while such embodiments provide at least some degree of flexibility in modular construction, such embodiments may be disadvantageous because the electronically controlled faucet is not a unitary structure and is more complex and time consuming to install than a unitary faucet. While those skilled in the art have recognized the benefits of a modular construction in some respects, it has not generally been possible to make electronically controlled faucets easier to maintain, replace or interchange components, such as outlet pipes, in the modules of the construction.

To change the ornamental appearance or assembly of a faucet, it is often necessary to change the body and handle that make up substantially the entire faucet. Thus, if a user wishes to change the ornamental appearance or function of their own faucet, they must purchase the entire alternative faucet assembly to pay for its purchase price and remove/replace most faucet assemblies.

It is therefore apparent that a new faucet design is desirable that can provide the consumer with more readable interchangeable options in terms of design, decoration, and function without involving the cost or labor of the new faucet.

Disclosure of Invention

Non-limiting examples of the present disclosure provide an interchangeable faucet design (i.e., system) for use with an interchangeable outlet pipe, and an associated method of replacing an interchangeable faucet. The interchangeable faucet design generally includes a coupling variation of the spout that can be easily attached to, and detached from, the sensor "puck" (e.g., selectively coupled). The sensor disc may be configured to receive at least a portion of a base of a faucet spout, thereby forming a liquid seal. One or more channels may be included therethrough to carry fluid from a mixing valve coupled to the hot and cold water lines through the sensor disc and through an interchangeable outlet tube where the fluid is dispensed (e.g., released, sprayed, output) into the environment, e.g., into a basin, sink, bathtub, etc., when the sensor integrated with the sensor disc is activated.

Non-limiting examples of the present disclosure provide an interchangeable faucet design (i.e., system) for use with an interchangeable outlet pipe. The interchangeable faucet design generally includes a coupling variation of the spout that can be easily attached to, and detached from, the sensor "puck" (e.g., selectively coupled). The sensor disc may be configured to include a protruding spout adapter that may be configured to be inserted into or otherwise coupled to at least a portion of a base of a faucet spout, thereby forming a liquid seal. One or more channels may be included therethrough to carry fluid from a mixing valve coupled to the hot and cold water lines through the sensor disc and through an interchangeable outlet tube where the fluid is dispensed (e.g., released, sprayed, output) into the environment, e.g., into a basin, sink, bathtub, etc., when the sensor integrated with the sensor disc is activated.

Non-limiting examples of the present disclosure provide a method of interchanging faucet spout with a single sensor disc, comprising coupling the sensor disc to a wall, sink assembly, or counter top, wherein the sensor disc is configured to receive or accept at least a portion of a base of the interchangeable faucet spout to form a liquid seal. One or more channels may be included therethrough to carry fluid from a mixing valve coupled to the hot and cold water lines through the sensor disc and through an interchangeable outlet tube where the fluid is dispensed (e.g., released, sprayed, output) into the environment, e.g., into a basin, sink, bathtub, etc., upon activation of a sensor integrated with the sensor disc. The interchangeable faucet is detached from the sensor disc and a replacement interchangeable faucet spout is attached.

The above summary is not intended to describe each illustrated example or every implementation of the present disclosure. The figures and the detailed description that follow more particularly exemplify these embodiments.

Drawings

The subject matter herein may be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description of various examples in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary faucet assembly, such as in a public lavatory.

Fig. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a sensor disk coupled to a tabletop.

Fig. 3 illustrates a wall-mounted faucet assembly.

Fig. 4 illustrates a counter top mounted faucet assembly.

FIG. 5 illustrates a comparison between various faucet assembly designs that may be coupled with a sensor disk.

Fig. 6 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary faucet within a toilet.

Fig. 7 illustrates a block diagram of a controller of the faucet assembly.

Fig. 8 illustrates a single, lower height wall-mounted faucet assembly.

Fig. 9 illustrates a single, medium height wall-mounted faucet assembly.

Fig. 10 illustrates a single, higher height wall-mounted faucet assembly.

Fig. 11 illustrates a single, lower height counter top mounted faucet assembly.

Fig. 12 illustrates a single, medium height counter top mounted faucet assembly.

Fig. 13 illustrates a single, higher height counter top mounted faucet assembly.

Fig. 14 illustrates a plurality of lower height counter top mounted faucet assemblies.

Fig. 15 illustrates a plurality of medium height counter top mounted faucet assemblies.

Fig. 16 illustrates a plurality of higher level counter top mounted faucet assemblies.

FIG. 17 illustrates a plurality of lower height faucet assemblies, including counter top mounted and wall mounted faucet assemblies.

FIG. 18 illustrates a plurality of medium height faucet assemblies, including counter top mounted and wall mounted faucet assemblies.

FIG. 19 illustrates a plurality of higher level faucet assemblies, including counter top mounted and wall mounted faucet assemblies.

Fig. 20 illustrates a perspective view of another sensor disc coupled to a water outlet pipe.

Fig. 21 shows a block diagram of a method of interchanging faucet outlet pipes with a single sensor disc.

While various examples are amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the claimed invention to the particular examples described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosed subject matter.

Detailed Description

Before turning to the drawings, which illustrate certain examples in detail, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the details or methods set forth in the description, nor to the details or methods illustrated in the drawings. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description only and is not intended to be limiting.

In general, the figures illustrate interchangeable faucet designs (i.e., systems) for use with interchangeable outlet pipes according to representative examples of the present disclosure. The interchangeable faucet design may include a variation of a sensor "disc" configured to integrate (e.g., removably couple, selectively couple, etc.) with a plurality of interchangeable and universal outlet pipes. One or more channels may be incorporated into the sensor disc to carry fluid from a mixing valve coupled to the hot and cold water lines through the sensor disc and through an interchangeable outlet pipe where the fluid is dispensed (e.g., released, sprayed, output) into the environment, e.g., into a basin, sink, bathtub, etc.

Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary faucet configuration 100, which faucet configuration 100 may include one or more faucet assemblies 102, as described in detail below. The faucet arrangement 100 may include a sink module or basin 104. In some examples, one or more sink modules 104 may be integrated with the countertop 106 (i.e., countertop mounted), contained within or implemented into a continuous base (e.g., as a floor support), extend outwardly from the wall 106, or integrated with a separate structure. The sink module 104 can be configured to receive material (e.g., water, liquid, waste, food, soap, etc.) from the faucet 110. The faucet assembly 102 may be positioned proximate to the sink module 102, above the sink module 102, or otherwise positioned in proximity to the sink module 102 such that dispensed material (i.e., water) is received into the sink module 104. For example, the faucet 110 may be actuated between an "on" position and an "off" position such that the faucet assembly 102 may selectively dispense water. The faucet 110 may be actuated between the "on" and "off positions by interacting with a non-contact sensor, which may be located within the sensor disc 112, or the faucet 110 may be manually actuated between the" on "and" off positions via one or more handles coupled to the faucet 110. The sensor disk 112 may be configured to selectively receive or operatively couple to various outlet pipe configurations, described in detail herein. Each faucet assembly 102 may be connected to a source of water not shown by a solenoid valve and interconnecting water lines, although interconnecting water lines are not important to the operation and interchangeability of faucet assemblies 102. For example, the conduit may include connections to one or more of a hot water source and a cold water source below the counter top. These water sources may be fluidly coupled to one or more valves (e.g., solenoid valves, diverters, filters, mixing valves, or any of a variety of features located below the deck and/or within the faucet assembly itself). One or more of the components may be further combined into a single cartridge or manifold that provides fluid to a single faucet or multiple faucets.

Fig. 2 depicts a representative example of a sensor disc 112 that may be integrated as part 204 of the faucet assembly 102 (e.g., a base portion mounted on the deck 106). The sensor disc 112 may be rotatably twisted/screwed, glued, sucked, held or otherwise coupled into the sink assembly 104, counter 106 or wall 108. A water tube/pipe associated with the water source may be coupled to the sensor disc 112, which allows fluid flow to be received and discharged through the outlet tube adapter 220, through the outlet tube 114 (e.g., through one of the plurality of outlet tube designs described herein), and into the sink assembly. In this example, outlet pipe 114 is received within outlet pipe adapter 220 by a force fit, a snap fit, corresponding threads within adapter 220 and on the outer surface of outlet pipe 114, or various coupling mechanisms. The sensor disc 112 may be integrated onto a counter (i.e., counter mounted), similar to that described in fig. 1, or may be integrated with a wall such that the outlet pipe 114 protrudes from the wall (i.e., wall mounted). Outlet pipes of different shapes, sizes and designs may be readable attached to and detached from the sensor disc 112, such as rotatably secured, sandwiched or otherwise coupled, which form a fluid seal.

The sensor disk 112 may include one or more integrated sensors 222. The sensor/sensors 222 may be configured to provide a signal (or signals) to a communication interface to operate or actuate various components of the faucet assembly 102, as will be described in more detail below.

The sensor disk 112 may be constructed of a metal or metallic material (e.g., aluminum or steel), although other materials (e.g., plastic, ceramic, carbon fiber, etc.) are contemplated. The sensor disc 112 may be circular or oval. Although described as circular, other shapes and sizes of the sensor disc 112 are also contemplated such that the combination of the sensor disc 112 and the corresponding, interchangeable outlet tube may be aesthetically pleasing to a user (e.g., a circular sensor disc in combination with a circular outlet tube, a circular sensor disc in combination with a rectangular outlet tube, or any other variation that results in an aesthetic appearance).

Referring again to fig. 3 and 4, one or more sensors 222 may be disposed within the sensor disk 112. The sensor 222 may be configured to provide a signal (or signals) to the communication interface to operate or actuate various components of the faucet assembly, as described herein. By way of example, the sensor 222 may include a non-contact sensor system having a sensor range (e.g., typically within the internal environment of a corresponding sink module). In some examples, a user may place a portion of his body (e.g., hand 340) near or waving the sensor 222 within range of the sensor to actuate various components of the faucet assembly, such as activating and/or deactivating the flow of fluid. The sensor 222 may utilize non-contact sensing technologies including, for example, infrared proximity, ambient light, ultrasonic proximity, capacitive proximity, laser, vision, and the like, or combinations thereof.

Referring to fig. 2 and 3, the upper surface of the sensor disk 112 may include a tapered shape 324 in which the sensor 222 is disposed. The entire circumference of the sensor disk 112 may be tapered, or the sensor disk 112 may have tapered portions 324 only in the peripheral region near the sensor 222. The tapered portion 324 of the sensor disc 112 and the positioning of the sensor 222 therein enables the field of view 226 of the sensor 222 to be readily activated in any direction (e.g., higher or lower relative to the sink assembly, whether wall-mounted or counter-mounted, etc.), and provides a more targeted field of view, i.e., toward the user's hand. As shown in fig. 3, a wall-mounted faucet assembly 314 is depicted. When integrated into the wall 308 (i.e., in fluid communication with and operable with a corresponding fluid line, valve, etc.), the orientation of the sensor 222 exhibits a declining angle with a field of view that covers at least the interior structure of the sink module with the goal of the user's hand 340. In comparison to fig. 4, a counter top mounted faucet assembly 315 is depicted. When integrated into the counter 306 (i.e., in fluid communication with and operable with a corresponding fluid line, valve, etc.), the orientation of the sensor 222 exhibits an upward angle, and the field of view remains at least covering the internal structure of the sink module 304 with the aim of the user's hand 340.

Fig. 5 depicts various interchangeable examples of readable, interchangeable outlet pipes (e.g., counter-top mounted outlet pipes) that may utilize the same sensor disk. The sensor disk 112 may be configured with a modular frame to receive various outlet pipe shapes, sizes, and designs. For example, through the outlet tube aperture 420, various outlet tubes are each configured to be attached to and detached from the same sensor disk 112 (i.e., for added versatility). The spout aperture 420 is configured to readily receive at least a portion of the base of the faucet spout 414 to thereby effect a liquid seal.

The interaction between the faucet assembly's frame, and in particular the sensor disc 112 and the various interchangeable outlet tubes 410, provides the user with flexibility to select or interchange between, from, and to choose from among the various faucet heights, spray ranges and CMFs (i.e., colors, models and surface treatments) without the need to completely replace or install other generally more integrated components of the faucet/sink/pipe/etc. The versatility and interchangeability between spout designs, shapes and sizes having the same sensor disc 112 provides flexibility for the user to choose and vary between the height, spray range and CMF of the numerous spouts of the corresponding faucet assembly.

For example, an interchangeable faucet spout 414 may be readable configured to couple with the sensor disc 112. Such faucet spout designs 409 through 411 are illustrated as examples. The spout designs may include a gooseneck design 409 (e.g., design a), a flat/alternative gooseneck design 410 (e.g., design B), and a rectangular design 411 (e.g., design C), referred to as a counter top mounted faucet. Each design may be constructed in a variety of sizes, each having a height H (e.g., H1, H2, H3) and a radius of curvature R (e.g., R1, R2, R3) (i.e., for a circular outlet pipe, such as gooseneck designs 409 and 410) or a width W (e.g., W1, W2, W3) for a rectangular design. H3 may be greater than H2 and H2 may be greater than H1. R3/W3 may be greater than R2/W2, and R2/W2 may be greater than R1/W1. The shape and size of each design may be interchanged with the same, single sensor disc 112. While outlet tube designs 409 through 411 may be described, other designs, shapes and sizes are contemplated, such as those configured as wall-mounted designs. It should be appreciated that while similar heights, radii and widths are described between outlet pipe designs, the respective dimensions between each design are not necessarily equal.

When considering a wall-mounted outlet pipe design, a similar design and shape may be considered, as described herein. Each wall-mounted design may be configured in a variety of sizes, each having a width W that protrudes from the wall through the sensor disc 112. For example, the width W (or radius R, as compared to a curved counter-top mounted design) may determine the spray range into the sink assembly, similar to that described for the counter-top mounted design. Unlike the counter-top mounted design, the height H of faucet assembly/outlet tube 414 will be determined based on the coupling location of sensor disc 112 to the wall surface. Slight differences between designs may limit the versatility of the wall mounted design to some extent because the height of the faucet assembly is limited by the height of the sensor disc 412. However, wall-mounted outlet pipe designs may consume less counter-top consumption. Each design, shape and size may be interchanged with the same sensor disc 112. It should be understood that other designs, shapes and sizes are contemplated, such as those configured as wall-mounted designs. It should be appreciated that while similar heights, radii and widths are described between outlet pipe designs, the respective dimensions between each design are not necessarily equal.

Fig. 6, similar to fig. 1, illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary faucet configuration. Components that facilitate the proper functioning of faucet assembly 502, such as a power source, various valves (e.g., mixing valves), solenoid assemblies, etc., may be disposed below deck 506. These components may be combined and otherwise enclosed within the housing 550. The housing 550 may be disposed directly below each faucet assembly 502 to facilitate access and maintenance of the components below the faucet assemblies 502.

Fig. 7 illustrates various components that may be included within or contained within housing 550 or otherwise beneath faucet assembly 502 that facilitate the proper functioning of faucet assembly 502. As described herein, the controller 540 (control module, remote control, control interface, etc.) may be integrated with the faucet assembly 502 of fig. 7, as well as other faucet assemblies. The controller 540 is communicatively coupled to the sensors and may be configured to control and/or contactlessly actuate one or more faucet assemblies, sensors, fluid flows, etc., based on signals generated by the sensors. The controller 540 may include a wireless communication device 542, a power supply 544, processing logic 546, and a memory 548. In general, the controller 540 may be in communication with one or more solenoid assemblies of the faucet assembly 502. The controller 540 may communicate instructions to the solenoid assembly via control communication 542 to open or close a material passage and/or activate or deactivate a faucet when a sensor of the faucet assembly 502 detects motion. The solenoid assembly may receive the sensor signal and forward a signal to actuate the material passage into an "on" and "off" position to activate or deactivate faucet assembly 502, thereby activating and deactivating the flow of material through faucet assembly 502.

The power supply 544 may provide power to the controller 540. The power supply 544 may include a disposable battery (e.g., alkaline, lithium, zinc air, etc.) or a rechargeable battery (lithium ion, nickel cadmium, etc.), or may plug into a socket to receive alternating current or direct current. In some examples, the controller 540 may be powered wirelessly, e.g., by inductive charging. For example, the controller 540 may be wall-mounted, with a wireless charger (e.g., copper coil, magnetic loop antenna, etc.) disposed behind the controller 540. The wireless charger may then interface with a power supply 544 to wirelessly charge the controller 540.

Processing logic 546 may be configured to send signals to and receive signals from control communications 542. The processing logic 546 may be operatively coupled to a memory 548 in which instructions are stored on how to respond to the sensor signals. Memory 548 can be a non-transitory memory including programming instructions stored thereon. In some examples, instructions are added to memory 548 during manufacturing, so that an intended user of faucet assembly 502 cannot access. For example, the memory 548 may store instructions regarding how to control the solenoid assembly 528 to open or close the hot and/or cold material passages. In some examples, memory 548 stores instructions for the volume and temperature of material flowing through faucet assembly 502 when the sensor is triggered to activate. Memory 548 can be configured to prevent a user from changing the manner in which solenoid assembly responds to instructions received from controller 540. In some examples, memory 548 may be configured to enable a user to change the manner in which solenoid assembly 528 responds to instructions received from controller 540.

Fig. 8-19 illustrate various representations of faucet assemblies/installations. As depicted, one or more different designs, sizes, shapes of faucet assemblies/faucet spout may be integrated into the counter 506 or wall 508 in a variety of different configurations and locations. The faucet assembly may include various combinations of outlet pipes 514 and 515 that may utilize the same sensor disk 112 (and incorporate additional sensor disks 112 when installing and utilizing additional outlet pipes 514 and 515) depending on the preferences and requirements of the user.

Fig. 8-10 illustrate a single wall mounted faucet assembly having a combination of sensor disc 112 and faucet spout 515 at different spray levels relative to sink assembly 504, similar to that described with reference to fig. 3 (e.g., fig. 8 illustrates the faucet assembly being disposed at a lower level H1, fig. 9 illustrates the faucet assembly being disposed at a medium level H2, and fig. 10 illustrates the faucet assembly being disposed at a higher level H3). Each outlet pipe 515 has a width W (W1, W2, W3) to allow water spray to reach a distance of the basin module 504 based on user preference.

Fig. 11-13 illustrate a single counter top mounted faucet assembly with a combination of sensor disc 112 and faucet spout 515 at different spray levels relative to sink assembly 504, similar to that described with reference to fig. 4 (e.g., fig. 11 illustrates the faucet assembly being disposed at a lower level H1, fig. 12 illustrates the faucet assembly being disposed at a medium level H2, and fig. 13 illustrates the faucet assembly being disposed at a higher level H3). Each outlet pipe 514 has a radius R or width W to allow water spray to reach a distance in the basin module 504 based on user preference.

Fig. 14-16 illustrate a plurality of counter top mounted faucet assemblies with corresponding sensor disks 112 and faucet spout 515 combinations at different spray levels relative to sink assembly 504, similar to that described with reference to fig. 4 (e.g., fig. 14 illustrates faucet assembly 515 set at a lower level (e.g., H1), fig. 15 illustrates faucet assembly set at a medium level (e.g., H2), fig. 16 illustrates faucet assembly set at a higher level (e.g., H3)). Each outlet pipe 515 has a radius R (i.e., for a curved faucet outlet pipe) or a width W (i.e., for a rectangular faucet outlet pipe) to allow water spray to reach a distance in the sink assembly 504 based on user preference. It should be appreciated that while two counter top mounted faucet assemblies are described, additional faucet assemblies may be included or multiple wall/counter top mounted faucet assemblies may be incorporated at a similar or alternative height H and radius R/width W.

Fig. 17-19 illustrate a plurality of counter mounted faucet assemblies with corresponding sensor disks 112 and faucet outlet pipe 514 and 515 combinations at different spray levels relative to sink assembly 504, similar to that described with reference to fig. 3 and 4 (e.g., fig. 17 illustrates the faucet assembly being positioned at a lower level (e.g., H1), fig. 18 illustrates the faucet assembly being positioned at a medium level (e.g., H2), fig. 19 illustrates the faucet assembly being positioned at a higher level (e.g., H3)). Each of the outlet pipes 514 and 515 has a radius R (i.e., for a curved faucet outlet pipe) or a width W (i.e., for a rectangular faucet outlet pipe) to allow water spray to reach a distance of the sink assembly 504 based on user preference. It should be appreciated that while a counter top mounted faucet assembly and a wall mounted faucet assembly are described, additional faucet assemblies may be included or multiple wall mounted hanging/counter top mounted faucet assemblies may be incorporated at a similar or alternative height H and radius R/width W.

A representative installation utilizing the present example may include one or more sensor disks configured as a single counter top mounted or a single wall mounted, one or more counter top mounted or one or more wall mounted. Each outlet pipe may utilize the same or alternative shapes and designs. For example, a gooseneck outlet pipe of lower height and smaller radius (e.g., H1 and R1) may be utilized with a rectangular outlet pipe of higher height and larger width (e.g., H3 and W3), or the outlet pipe, sensor disk, and mounting location may be combined arbitrarily. The easy interchangeable arrangement between the sensor disc and the variation of the faucet spout provides a wide variety of aesthetic arrangements, and in addition, provides flexibility for each space and preference where it is desired to install a faucet (or multiple faucets).

Fig. 20 illustrates a perspective view of an alternative example faucet assembly with a sensor disc 612. The sensor disk 612 may be integrated as part of a faucet assembly such that water lines/lines (e.g., hot water line 641 and cold water line 642) may be coupled to the sensor disk 612 to allow the flow of fluid, which may be received and discharged through the protruding outlet tube adapter 620. The protruding spout adapter 620 may be configured to accept an interchangeable faucet spout (e.g., spout 614), as described herein. The outlet pipe 614 may be coupled with a protruding outlet pipe adapter 620 to form a liquid seal, wherein the flow of material may be treated by and into a tank module (not shown). Similar to that depicted in fig. 1, the sensor disk 612, and thus the faucet assembly 602, can be integrated onto a counter (i.e., counter mounted).

The sensor disk 612 may be integrated into the sink assembly, counter 606, or wall 608 by being rotatably twisted/screwed, glued, sucked, fastened, held, or otherwise coupled. The sensor disk 612 may be similarly configured, but may be integrated such that the outlet pipe and the sensor disk 612 protrude from the wall (i.e., wall-mounted). Outlet pipes of different designs, shapes and sizes may be readable attached to or detached from the protruding outlet pipe adapter 620 (and sensor disk 612). The sensor disk 612 may be constructed of metal or a metallic material (e.g., aluminum or steel), although alternative materials (e.g., plastics) are contemplated (including materials as previously described). The sensor disk 612 may be circular or oval. Although described as circular, other shapes and sizes of the sensor disk 612 are also contemplated such that the combination of the sensor disk 612 and the corresponding, interchangeable outlet tube may be aesthetically pleasing to the user (e.g., a circular sensor disk in combination with a circular outlet tube, a circular sensor disk in combination with a rectangular outlet tube, or any other aesthetically pleasing variation).

One or more sensors 622 may be disposed within the sensor disk 612. Sensor 622 may be configured to provide a signal (or signals) to a communication interface (e.g., a controller) to operate or actuate various components of the faucet assembly, as described herein. By way of example, the sensor 622 may include a non-contact sensor system having a sensor range (e.g., typically within the internal environment of a corresponding sink module). In some examples, a user may place a portion of his body (e.g., a hand) near or waving the sensor 622 within range of the sensor to actuate various components of the faucet assembly, such as activating and/or deactivating the flow of fluid through the faucet assembly 602. The sensor 622 may utilize non-contact sensing technologies including, for example, infrared proximity, ambient light, ultrasonic proximity, capacitive proximity, laser, vision, and the like.

The sensor 622 may be positioned along an edge or side (e.g., along a curvature) of the sensor disk 612 so that the target field of view extends outwardly toward the sink assembly and ultimately toward the user. The curved nature of the sensor disk 612 and the positioning of the sensor 622 therein enable the field of view of the sensor 222 to be readily activated in any direction (e.g., higher or lower relative to the sink assembly, whether wall-mounted or counter-mounted, etc.), and provide a more targeted field of view, i.e., toward the user's hand. As shown, a counter top mounted faucet assembly 602 is depicted. When integrated into the counter 606 (i.e., in fluid communication with and operable with a corresponding fluid line, valve, etc.), the orientation of the sensor 622 exhibits a wide span angle with a field of view covering at least the internal structure of the sink module with the objective of a user's hand.

Fig. 21 shows a flow chart of a method for exchanging a faucet spout. At block 702, a sensor disc may be coupled to a wall, sink assembly, or counter top, wherein the sensor disc is configured to receive at least a portion of a base of an interchangeable faucet spout through a spout adapter or spout aperture to form a liquid seal. At block 704, one or more channels carry fluid from mixing valves coupled to the hot water line and the cold water line through the sensor disc and through an interchangeable outlet pipe where the fluid is dispensed (e.g., released, sprayed, output) into the environment, e.g., into a basin, sink, bathtub, etc. At block 706, a sensor integrated with the sensor disc may be activated to dispense fluid through the sensor disc and the coupled interchangeable faucet, and the sensor may be deactivated to stop dispensing fluid. At block 708, the interchangeable faucet may be easily separated from the sensor disc by a spout adapter or spout hole. An alternative interchangeable faucet spout may be attached to the sensor disc to form a liquid seal at block 710.

It should be understood that the various operations used in the methods of the present teachings may be performed in any order and/or simultaneously so long as the teachings remain operable. Further, it should be understood that the apparatus and methods of the present teachings may include any number or all of the described examples so long as the teachings remain operable.

Various examples of systems, devices, and methods have been described herein. These examples are given by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention. Furthermore, it should be understood that the various features of the examples that have been described may be combined in various ways to create numerous additional examples. In addition, while various materials, sizes, shapes, configurations, locations, etc. have been described for use in the disclosed examples, other materials, sizes, shapes, configurations, locations, etc. may be utilized in addition to those disclosed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

One of ordinary skill in the relevant art will recognize that the subject matter of the present invention may include fewer features than illustrated in any of the individual examples described above. The examples described herein are not meant to be an exhaustive presentation of the ways in which the various features of the subject matter herein may be combined. Thus, these examples are not mutually exclusive combinations of features, but rather, various examples may include combinations of different individual features selected from different individual examples, as will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, unless otherwise indicated, elements described with respect to one example may be implemented in other examples even if not described in those examples.

Although a dependent claim may refer to a particular combination with one or more other claims in the claims, other examples may also include a combination of a dependent claim with the subject matter of each other dependent claim or with one or more features of other dependent or independent claims. Such combinations are presented herein unless a specific combination is not intended to be described.

Any incorporation by reference of documents above is limited such that no subject matter that departs from the explicit disclosure herein is incorporated. Any incorporation by reference of documents above is further limited such that no claims contained in the documents are incorporated by reference herein. Any incorporation by reference of documents above is further limited such that no definitions provided in the documents are incorporated by reference herein unless expressly included herein.

For purposes of interpreting the claims, unless a claim recites the specific term "means for" or "step for" of 35u.s.c. ≡112 (f), the specification is explicitly not quoted.

Claims (20)

1. A contactless faucet assembly, comprising: a base including one or more sensors, the base being configured to be mounted to a surface; and An outlet tube is removably coupled to the base, wherein the outlet tube is configured to deliver fluid therethrough and is interchangeable with another outlet tube. 2. The interchangeable faucet assembly of claim 1, wherein the base comprises a disc having one or more sensors embedded therein. 3. The touchless faucet assembly of claim 1 , wherein the one or more sensors are configured to detect user input and generate a signal therefrom, the assembly further comprising: A controller is communicatively coupled to the one or more sensors, the controller being configured to control a state of the faucet based on the signals generated by the one or more sensors. 4. A touchless faucet assembly according to claim 4, wherein the controller is configured to communicate with the valve assembly to convert the faucet assembly between an "on" state and an "off" state, wherein in the "on" state, fluid is delivered from the water outlet pipe, and in the "off" state, no fluid is delivered from the water outlet pipe. 5. The touchless faucet assembly of claim 5, wherein the valve assembly comprises a solenoid valve. 6. The touchless faucet assembly of claim 1, wherein the one or more sensors detect movement of the user by infrared proximity, ambient light, ultrasonic proximity, capacitive proximity, laser, vision, or a combination thereof. 7. A touchless faucet assembly according to claim 1, wherein the base includes a protrusion extending outwardly from the base, wherein the protrusion is configured to be removably coupled to an interior portion of the first end of the spout, and wherein the protrusion includes a structure defining a fluid conduit that is fluidly coupled to the interior conduit of the spout. 8. The touchless faucet assembly of claim 1, wherein the base is configured to be mounted to a vertical wall, and wherein a first portion of the spout coupled to the base extends substantially perpendicular to the wall. 9. The touchless faucet assembly of claim 1, wherein the base is configured to be mounted to a horizontal countertop, wherein a first portion of the spout coupled to the base extends substantially perpendicular to the countertop, a second portion of the spout extends substantially parallel to the countertop, and a third portion coupled to the second portion includes a free end of the second portion, the free end defining a fluid outlet. 10. The touchless faucet assembly of claim 1, further comprising a second spout configured to be removably coupled to the base, the second spout having at least one of a height, a spray range, a CMF, or a shape different from the spout. 11. A sensor disc assembly for installing a faucet outlet pipe, the sensor disc assembly comprising: a base configured to be mounted to a surface, the base configured to receive the faucet spout and removably couple the faucet spout to the base; one or more sensors coupled to the base to detect user input; and A controller is communicatively coupled to the one or more sensors, and is configured to control a state of the faucet based on signals generated by the one or more sensors. 12. The sensor disc assembly of claim 11, wherein the upper surface of the base includes a structure defining a hole, the hole being configured to receive the first end of the faucet spout and removably couple the first end therein, wherein when the first end is coupled to the base, a second outlet end of the faucet spout is fluidly coupled. 13. The sensor disc assembly of claim 12 wherein said upper surface of said base is tapered. 14. The sensor disc assembly of claim 11, wherein the base includes a protrusion extending outwardly from an upper surface of the base, wherein the protrusion is configured to be removably coupled to an interior portion of a first end of the faucet spout, and wherein the protrusion includes structure defining a fluid conduit that is fluidly coupled to an interior conduit of the spout. 15. The sensor disc assembly of claim 11, wherein the controller is configured to communicate with the valve assembly to switch the faucet assembly between an "on" state in which fluid is delivered from the outlet pipe and an "off" state in which no fluid is delivered from the outlet pipe. 16. The sensor disc assembly of claim 11, wherein the controller is located remotely from the base. 17. The sensor puck assembly of claim 11, wherein the one or more sensors detect movement of a user by infrared proximity, ambient light, ultrasonic proximity, capacitive proximity, laser, vision, or a combination thereof. 18. An interchangeable touchless faucet system, the system comprising: a base including one or more sensors, the base being configured to be mounted to a surface; and A plurality of outlet pipes, each outlet pipe removably coupled to the base, wherein each outlet pipe is configured to deliver fluid therethrough, wherein at least one of the plurality of outlet pipes has at least one of a height, a spray range, a CMF, or a shape that is different from other outlet pipes of the plurality of outlet pipes. 19. The system of claim 18, wherein the upper surface of the base includes a structure defining a hole configured to receive a first end of the faucet spout and removably couple the first end therein, wherein a second outlet end of the faucet spout is fluidly coupled when the first end is coupled to the base. 20. The system of claim 18, wherein the base includes a protrusion extending outwardly from an upper surface of the base, wherein the protrusion is configured to removably couple to an interior portion of a first end of the faucet spout, and wherein the protrusion includes structure defining a fluid conduit that is fluidly coupled to an interior conduit of the spout.