US20210321829A1

US20210321829A1 - Touchless Washing Station

Info

Publication number: US20210321829A1
Application number: US17/093,275
Authority: US
Inventors: Michael Shell; Brian Gallagher; Steven McKenzie
Original assignee: Elkay Manufacturing Co
Current assignee: Elkay Manufacturing Co
Priority date: 2020-04-15
Filing date: 2020-11-09
Publication date: 2021-10-21
Also published as: WO2021211166A1

Abstract

A mobile, touchless washing station capable of providing on-demand heated water is provided. The washing station comprises a touchless faucet, a touchless soap dispenser, a touchless towel dispenser, and a sink disposed in a countertop below the faucet. The washing station can further comprise an integrated cabinet configured to house a fresh water source and water heater fluidly connected to the faucet, and a waste water collector fluidly connected to the sink.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/010,422, filed on Apr. 15, 2019, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to a touchless washing station that includes an electronic touchless faucet, soap dispenser, and towel dispenser in a self-contained unit. The washing station further provides on-demand heated water, and includes a fresh water tank and waste water tank in the unit.

BACKGROUND

Conventional hand washing stations require manual operation of a faucet, a soap dispenser, and/or a paper towel dispenser, which creates the risk of contaminating the water station for subsequent users. Additionally, one or more of these essential components to maintaining hand washing hygiene may be included in a separate module creating another potential point of contamination and the need to purchase, configure, install, and maintain multiple structures to provide for hygienic hand-washing. Also critical to effective hand-washing is a steady flow of hot water, yet existing hand washing stations do not include a water heating system that can deliver a consistent flow of hot water within a single portable unit.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure summarizes aspects of some contemplated embodiments, and should not be used to limit the scope of the claims. Other implementations are contemplated in accordance with the techniques described herein, as will be apparent to one having ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following drawings and detailed description, and these implementations are intended to be within the scope of this application.
Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a mobile washing station that includes an electronic touchless faucet, touchless soap dispenser, touchless towel dispenser, and sink, all in one unit. The washing station further includes an integrated cabinet with a fresh water source and water heater, in order to provide a steady flow of consistent, on-demand heated water. The cabinet also includes a waste water collector coupled to the sink for collecting used water. Some embodiments are self-contained, such that the cabinet includes a fresh water tank and a waste water tank. Other embodiments have direct connection capability for coupling the cabinet to external fresh water and waste water plumbing lines.
One exemplary embodiment provides a touchless washing station, comprising a lower body; a countertop disposed above the lower body; a faucet coupled to said countertop and configured to deliver heated water in response to touchless operation by a user; a sink integrated into the countertop and disposed below an output end of said faucet; a soap dispenser configured to deliver soap in response to touchless operation by the user; a towel dispenser configured to deliver a disposable towel in response to touchless operation by the user; and an upper wall coupled to at least one side of the countertop and supporting said soap dispenser and towel dispenser.
Another exemplary embodiment provides a touchless washing station comprising a lower body; a first water source housed within said lower body; a second water source connected to said lower body; a faucet configured to deliver water in response to touchless operation by a user, the faucet being fluidly connected to a selected one of the first water source and the second water source; a soap dispenser configured to deliver soap in response to touchless operation by the user; a towel dispenser configured to deliver a disposable towel in response to touchless operation by the user; and an upper wall coupled to the lower body and supporting said soap dispenser and towel dispenser.
Benefits of the various embodiments of the present disclosure include providing a sanitary, portable, and durable solution for users to effectively wash hands. Specifically, with a touchless faucet, soap dispenser and paper towel dispenser, the washing station provides a no-contact, hygienic, easy to clean and sanitize structure. In some cases, the structure itself can be fully self-contained and portable, such that it need only be plugged into an electric outlet to be fully operational. The durability of the station is at least partially due to its welded stainless steel construction. The station can be designed to meet state and local hand washing codes, including UL, NSF certification and CDC hand washing guidelines.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a better understanding of the invention, reference may be made to embodiments shown in the following drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale and related elements may be omitted, or in some instances proportions may have been exaggerated, so as to emphasize and clearly illustrate the novel features described herein. In addition, system components can be variously arranged, as known in the art. Further, in the drawings, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several views.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of an exemplary touchless handwashing station, in accordance with embodiments.

FIGS. 2 and 3 are schematic diagrams illustrating opposing isometric views of the touchless handwashing station of FIG. 1, in accordance with embodiments.

FIGS. 4 and 5 are schematic diagrams illustrating opposing side views of the touchless handwashing station of FIG. 1, in accordance with embodiments.

FIGS. 6 and 7 are schematic diagrams illustrating top and bottom views, respectively, of the touchless handwashing station of FIG. 1, in accordance with embodiments.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating an isometric view of the touchless handwashing station of FIG. 1 with an upper wall removed, for ease of illustration, in accordance with embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating a partially transparent perspective view of the touchless handwashing station of FIG. 1, in accordance with embodiments.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a partially transparent front view of the touchless handwashing station of FIG. 9, in accordance with embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a top view of the touchless handwashing station shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with embodiments.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an exemplary touchless faucet included in the touchless handwashing station shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with embodiments.

FIG. 11 is an internal circuit diagram of the touchless handwashing station of FIG. 1, in accordance with embodiments.

FIGS. 12 and 13 are schematic diagrams illustrating side and isometric views, respectively, of another exemplary touchless handwashing station, in accordance with embodiments

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating a rear view of an exemplary touchless handwashing station, in accordance with embodiments.

FIG. 15 is a close-up view of a direct connect housing of the handwashing station shown in FIG. 14, in accordance with embodiments.

FIG. 16 is an internal circuit diagram of the touchless handwashing station of FIG. 14, in accordance with embodiments.

FIG. 17 is an internal circuit diagram of another exemplary touchless handwashing station, in accordance with embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

While the invention may be embodied in various forms, there are shown in the drawings, and will hereinafter be described, some exemplary and non-limiting embodiments, with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments illustrated.
Various embodiments provide a hands-free, mobile washing station comprising an electronic touchless faucet, touchless soap dispenser, and touchless towel dispenser in one unit, with an upper wall or splash shield surrounding several sides of a countertop having an integrated sink disposed below the faucet. The washing station further includes a heated water source coupled to the touchless faucet in order to provide the user with a consistent flow of on-demand heated water. In some embodiments, this hot water source is provided by a fresh water tank for providing clean water for hand washing and a water heater for heating the fresh water, both of which are housed in an integrated cabinet disposed below the countertop. In such self-contained embodiments, the cabinet further includes a waste water tank for collecting used water from the sink. In other embodiments, the integrated cabinet of the hand washing station includes plumbing for directly connecting the unit to external fresh water and waste water plumbing lines. In such direct connect embodiments, the hand washing station may still include a water heater for heating the incoming fresh water before it is delivered to the faucet.
FIGS. 1 through 10 illustrate an exemplary touchless handwashing (or washing) station 100 that is fully self-contained and mobile, in accordance with embodiments. As shown, the washing station 100 comprises a touchless faucet 102 (or a faucet configured to deliver water in response to touchless operation by a user), a touchless soap dispenser 104 (or a soap dispenser configured to deliver soap in response to touchless operation by the user), a touchless paper towel dispenser 106 (or a towel dispenser configured to deliver a towel in response to touchless operation by the user), and a sink 108 disposed below an output end 102 a of the sink 108 and integrated into a flat surface or countertop 109 of the washing station 100. By being completely hands free, the washing station 100 provides a hygienic solution that is easy to use, clean, and sanitize. That is, the touchless faucet 102, soap dispenser 104, and towel dispenser 106 provide a no-contact solution whereby user contamination of the station 100 is reduced significantly. Additionally, with all components contained in a single unit, cleaning and sanitizing of the station 100 is simplified. The station 100 may also be designed to meet state and local hand washing codes and conform to National Sanitation Foundation (“NSF”) standards (e.g., NSF 2, NSF 169 certification, etc.), Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) hand washing guidelines, and UL product safety guidelines, for example.
In some embodiments, the handwashing station 100 includes an integrated fresh water source, water heater, and waste water collector, such that the unit becomes fully operational once it is plugged into a wall socket. In such cases, the washing station 100 comprises a lower cabinet 110 (also referred to herein as a “lower body”) for housing various electronic and plumbing components, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10. In addition, the washing station 100 comprises an electric cord 112 with an electrical plug 114 (also referred to herein as an “external plug”) coupled to one end. A distal end (not shown) of the electric cord 112 is electrically coupled to the lower cabinet 110 for delivering power (e.g., 110-120 volts) to the electronic components within said cabinet 110, once the electric plug 114 is coupled to an external socket or electrical outlet (not shown). The plug 114 may be a standard two-prong plug, as shown, for electrically coupling to a standard wall socket or other electrical outlet. In other embodiments, the plug 114 may be a standard three-prong plug (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11), or may include a removable adapter for coupling to three-prong electrical outlets. The electric cord 112 may extend out from or enter the cabinet 110 through an opening 115, such as, for example, the opening 115 shown on the bottom of the station 100 in FIG. 7. In other embodiments, the opening 115 may be disposed on a side of the cabinet 110, such as, e.g., on a backside of the cabinet 110 or any other side.
The fully-contained washing station 100 may also be portable. For example, in the illustrated embodiments, the lower cabinet 110 rests on, or is coupled to, a plurality of swivel plate casters or wheels 116 to allow for easy transport of the washing station 100. A front wall 117 of the cabinet 110 comprises one or more recessed handles 118 configured to assist a user in pulling, or otherwise moving or repositioning, the washing station 100 to a desired location. In other embodiments, the handles 118 may be placed on any other wall of the cabinet 110, such as, for example, one of the side walls or on a back wall opposite the front wall 117.
In one embodiment, at least one of the casters 116 includes a lock or locking feature 119 configured to prevent rotation of the wheel, thereby limiting movement of the washing station 100 when engaged. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, in one embodiment, the two front casters 116 a may include the locking feature 119 (i.e. “locking casters”) for easy access by the user, and the two back casters 116 b may include no such feature (i.e. “non-locking casters”). As also shown in FIG. 1, the locking feature 119 may be a mechanical brake operable by depressing or releasing a lever coupled to the wheel. Other types of devices for facilitating movement of the washing station 100 are also contemplated, as will be appreciated.
The washing station 100 further comprises an upper wall or shroud 120 comprised of a plurality of metal walls configured to provide privacy to the user, prevent splashing of water outside the unit, provide one or more surfaces for securing the touchless dispensers 104 and 106, and/or create a more contained washing station 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the shroud 120 has three adjoining walls 122 coupled to three respective sides of the countertop 109, leaving a fourth side of the countertop 109 open and accessible to the user. In some embodiments the upper wall 120 is comprised of a continuous sheet of metal bent or curved to form the three walls 122, with no visible seams on or along the wall 120. A rear or back wall 122 a is disposed opposite the open side of the countertop 109 and is coupled to the countertop 109 behind the touchless faucet 102 and sink 108. Opposing sidewalls 122 b are coupled to the countertop 109 on either side of the rear wall 122 a, so as to define the open side and frame the sink 108 and counter space adjacent thereto. In this manner, the open side of the upper wall 120 forms a front face of the washing station 100.
As shown in the illustrated embodiments, the rear wall 122 a can be configured to support the touchless soap dispenser 104 and the touchless towel dispenser 106. In other cases, one or more of the dispensers 104, 106 may be secured to one or more of the sidewalls 122 b. In still other embodiments, the washing station 100 may not include the soap dispenser and/or towel dispenser. In another embodiment, the washing station 100 may include a drying device (e.g., air dryer) (not shown) that is coupled to the upper wall 120 instead of the towel dispenser.
A height and width of the shroud 120 may be selected to contain any water splashes resulting from use of the washing station 100, provide privacy to the user, and/or provide enough height for placement of the dispensers 104 and 106. In one example embodiment, each of the shroud walls 122 may extend above the countertop 109 to a height of about 20 inches and may form a solid panel on either side of the countertop 109. In such embodiment, each of the sidewalls 122 b may extend out from the back wall 122 a to a width of about 24 inches, so as to be almost aligned with the front edge of the countertop 109, thus creating a substantially enclosed space around the back and sides of the sink 108.
In addition, each of the shroud walls 122 may be substantially aligned, or flush, with the walls of the lower cabinet 110, so as to provide a smooth and sleek looking exterior for the washing station 100, for example, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. In the illustrated embodiments, the privacy shroud 120 is made of the same material as the other exterior surfaces of the washing station 100 (e.g., stainless steel). In other embodiments, the shroud 120 may be made of any other (different) suitable material (e.g., plastic, etc.). In some cases, the shroud walls 122 may be constructed as a one-piece structure that is seamlessly coupled to the lower cabinet 110, so as to not form a joint with the countertop 109 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3), which may allow dirt to enter into the handwashing area, for example.
As illustrated, the water station 100 is constructed almost completely of welded stainless steel (e.g., 301 stainless steel construction), which is easy to clean and sanitize, and ensures durability for any application and longevity for multiple uses. For example, each of the countertop 109, the sink 108, the faucet 102, the shroud 120, and the lower cabinet 110 may be made of stainless steel. In other embodiments, the water station 100 may be constructed of plastic or any other suitable, and potentially more cost-effective, material.
As shown in FIGS. 2 and 5, one side of the lower cabinet 110 includes a hinged door 124 with a latch 126 to provide easy access to the components housed within the cabinet 110. In some cases, the door 124 may be lockable to prevent unauthorized under cabinet access (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13). In one embodiment, the latch 126 may be a paddle latch. In other embodiments, the latch 126 may be a magnetic latch or any other suitable latching mechanism for enabling the door 124 to be opened and closed.
FIG. 9 shows the handwashing station 100 with the cabinet door 124 and front cabinet wall 117 removed in order to reveal the internal contents of the cabinet 110. Likewise, FIG. 10 shows the handwashing station 100 with the front wall 117 removed.
In embodiments, the lower cabinet 110 houses a fresh water tank 128 (also referred to herein as a “fresh water source”) coupled to the faucet 102, a used or waste water tank 130 (also referred to therein as a “waste water collector”) coupled to the sink 108, a water heater 132 configured to consistently provide hot water, and an adjustable thermostatic mixing valve (see, e.g., mixing valve 134 in FIG. 11) for fluidly connecting the water heater 132 and fresh water tank 128 to the faucet 102 in order to provide heated water thereto. The cabinet 110 also includes a water pump configured to deliver or force water to the faucet 102 via the mixing valve (see, e.g., FIG. 11). A drain tube 135 fluidly connects a drain 137 of the sink 108 to the waste water tank 130 for waste collection purposes. The lower cabinet 110 also includes various hoses or pipes (such as, e.g., supply hose 136 shown in FIGS. 9 and 10) for carrying water from the fresh water tank 128 to the water heater 132 and for fluidly connecting the mixing valve to the fresh water tank 128, the water heater 132, and the faucet 102 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11).
In embodiments, the cabinet 110 also includes at least one electrical outlet (see, e.g., electrical outlet 138 in FIG. 11) that is electrically connected to the electric cord 112 and is configured to deliver electrical power received via the electric cord 112 to various components of the washing station 100, such as, for example, the faucet 102, the water heater 132, and the water pump (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11). For example, the electrical outlet may include a plurality of electrical sockets for coupling to respective electrical components of the cabinet 110, as shown in FIG. 11 and described herein.
In the illustrated embodiment, the handwashing station 100 requires no external plumbing connections. The fresh water tank 128 is filled with water before being installed in the cabinet 110, and can be removed and refilled once the water is depleted. The waste water tank 130 is configured to collect all fluids flowing out of the sink 108 and can also be removed for disposal purposes. In some embodiments, the fresh water tank 128 is configured to hold up to about five gallons of water, and the waste water tank 130 is configured to hold up to about six gallons of water. The exact sizes and quantities of these tanks 128 and 130 may vary depending on the size of the lower cabinet 110, for example.
The water heater 132 may be configured to deliver, on-demand, hot water that is set to a preselected temperature (or heat setting) ranging from 65 to 145 degrees Fahrenheit (F). In embodiments, hot water from the water heater 132 and cold water from the fresh water tank 128 are both fed to the adjustable thermostatic mixing valve (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11), which is also coupled to the faucet 102. This three-way mixing valve includes an adjustable dial configured to allow a user (or installer) to control the temperature of water flowing into the faucet 102. In a preferred embodiment, the adjustable dial is set by the installer so that this water temperature is about 100 to 110 degrees F., to conform to CDC handwashing guidelines. If needed, the installer of the washing station 100 can also manually adjust the heat setting of the water heater 132 (for example, if mixing valve adjustment does not result in the desired water temperature, or the cold water temperature is colder than normal).
In other embodiments, the washing station 100 may not include a water heater or otherwise delivery heated water. Instead, the faucet 102 may be configured to provide non-heated or ambient temperature water that is received directly from the water tank 128 or other water supply.
FIG. 6 is a top view of the handwashing station 100, showing the touchless faucet 102, soap dispenser 104, towel dispenser 106, sink 108, and countertop 109. As shown, the sink 108 is integrated into the countertop 109 and disposed below an output end of the faucet 102. In embodiments, the sink 108 may be a deep, stainless steel sink configured for hand washing and minimal splashing. The exact dimensions of the sink 108 may be determined based on the dimensions of the lower cabinet 110 and the countertop 109.
Each of the faucet 102, the soap dispenser 104, and the towel dispenser 106 is sensor activated (e.g., using a motion sensor, proximity sensor, or the like) and requires no contact to initiate or stop delivery of water, soap, and paper towel during user operation. In some embodiments, the washing station 100 is configured to waste less resources by delivering water, soap, and paper towel only when needed, for example, by automatically stopping said delivery when a user (or handwasher) removes their hands (e.g., using an auto shut-off feature), as described in more detail below.
As shown in FIG. 1, the faucet 102 may include a sensor 140 for detecting an object (e.g., hand) placed within a predefined proximity (or distance) of the sensor 140 and a water delivery system for delivering water to the faucet 102 in response thereto (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11). In one embodiment, the sensor is an infrared sensor. In other embodiments, other types of sensor technology may be used to provide touchless operation of the faucet 102.
In some embodiments, the faucet 102 is configured to deliver or dispense water as long as the sensor 140 detects an object or is otherwise activated (e.g., due to user hand motion), and may automatically stop once the object is no longer detected, or the sensor 140 is no longer activated. In other embodiments, the faucet 102 may be configured to dispense water for a predetermined period of time in response to detecting an object, or the initial activation.
In some cases, the faucet 102 may include a battery for supplying operating power to the electronic components of the faucet 102. Additionally or alternatively, the faucet 102 can be electrically coupled to the electrical outlet within the lower cabinet 110 via an A/C adapter electrically coupled to the faucet 102, or otherwise receive power via the electrical cord 112.
In one embodiment, the faucet 102 is a sensor-activated electronic faucet with auto shut off features made by Elkay Commercial Systems, such as, for example, the faucet shown and described in the specification sheets and installation instructions for the Elkay Commercial Electronic Faucet Model LKB737C, which are incorporated by reference herein. As will be appreciated, other types of faucets and/or water dispensing systems may be used in other embodiments.
The towel dispenser 106 may be any suitable touchless paper towel dispenser and may include a compartment for storing paper towels, a sensor for detecting an object (e.g., hand) within a predetermined proximity (or distance) of the sensor, and a towel delivery system for automatically dispensing a paper towel in response to said detection. The towel dispenser 106 may be configured for refilling, for example, once all paper towels are used.
In some embodiments, the towel delivery system may be configured to deliver or dispense only one paper towel for each activation, or each time a signal indicating detection of an object is received. In other embodiments the delivery system may be configured to continuously dispense paper towels as long as the object is detected, and stop dispensing towels when the object is no longer detected.
In some embodiments, the towel dispenser 106 comprises a battery for supplying operating power to electronic components of the dispenser 106 and therefore, is completely self-contained. In other embodiments, the towel dispenser 106 is electrically coupled to the electrical outlet within the lower cabinet 110, or otherwise receives power via the electrical cord 112.
As will be appreciated, other types of towel dispensers may be used in other embodiments.
The soap dispenser 104 may be any suitable touchless liquid or foam soap dispenser and may include a compartment for storing liquid soap (e.g., a 1000 mL bag), a sensor for detecting an object (e.g., hand) within a predetermined range (or distance) of the sensor, and a soap delivery system for automatically dispensing soap in response to said detection. The soap dispenser 104 may be configured for receiving refill cartridges, for example, once an installed cartridge or bag is empty.
In some embodiments, the soap delivery system may be configured to deliver or dispense a predetermined amount of soap in response to each detection, or each time a signal indicating detection of an object is received. In other embodiments the delivery system may be configured to continuously dispense soap as long as the object is detected, and stop dispensing soap when the object is no longer detected.
In some embodiments, the soap dispenser 104 comprises a battery for supplying operating power to electronic components of the dispenser 104 and therefore, is completely self-contained. In other embodiments, the soap dispenser 104 is electrically coupled to the electrical outlet 138 within the lower cabinet 110, or otherwise receives power via the electrical cord 112.
As will be appreciated, other types of soap dispensers may be used in other embodiments.
FIG. 11 is an exemplary schematic diagram of internal connections between certain components of the washing station 100, particularly those housed within the lower cabinet 110, in accordance with embodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, the faucet 102 has a water delivery system comprised of an electronic control module (ECM) 142 and a supply line or hose 144 for coupling a main body of the faucet 102 to the ECM 142. Though not shown, the ECM 142 includes or houses a valve and a power supply electrically connected to said valve. The power supply may be a rechargeable power source (e.g., one or more batteries) and/or may be configured for electrically connecting to electric outlet 138 included in the lower cabinet 110 (e.g., via an electric plug and cord). The sensor 140 may be electrically coupled to the ECM power supply as well.
As also shown in FIG. 11, the ECM 142 includes, or is coupled to, an adapter 146 (e.g., pipe fitting) that is fluidly connected to the ECM valve and to an adjustable thermostatic mixing valve 134, via a hose 160, for enabling water to flow from the water heater 132 and the fresh water tank 128 to the faucet 102. The mixing valve 134 may be any suitable mixing valve with two in-line check valves, one for receiving hot water and one for receiving cold water, an output valve for delivery appropriately heated water to the faucet 102, and a mechanism for mixing the cold water and hot water received via the check valves, thereby adjusting a temperature of the water flowing out of the output valve. For example, in some embodiments, the adjustment mechanism may be a tab that is mechanically moved from left to right to change the water temperature. In other embodiments, the adjustment mechanism may be digitally controlled, for example, via user inputs entered using an input device (e.g., buttons) provided on the valve 134. Other types of adjustable thermostatic mixing valves, or other techniques for controlling water temperature, may also be used.
During operation, the sensor 140 may send a signal to the ECM 142 upon detecting an object (e.g., hand), or otherwise being activated. In response, the ECM 142 opens the valve coupled to the adapter 146, thus allowing water to flow into the supply hose 144 and out the faucet 102. In some embodiments, the ECM 142 keeps the valve open as long as the sensor 140 is activated, and automatically shuts off the valve once the object is no longer detected, or the sensor 140 is no longer activated. In other embodiments, the ECM 142 opens the valve to the adapter 146 for a predetermined amount of time upon activation and automatically closes the valve once that period ends.
As shown in FIG. 11, the lower cabinet 110 also includes a water pump 148 configured to move water from the fresh water tank 128 to the water heater 132 and to the mixing valve 134. In particular, the water pump 148 is coupled to the water tank 128 via a first supply hose 150, which may be connected to an input valve of the water pump 148 and an output valve of the water tank 128. A second supply hose 152 is coupled to an output valve of the water pump 148 and a “cold water” input of the mixing valve 134 in order to deliver cold water to the mixing valve 134.
In embodiments, a tee connector 154 may be coupled to the second supply hose 152 in order to divide the incoming water flow from the water pump 148 between the mixing valve 134 and the water heater 132. For example, a first port of the tee fitting or connector 154 may be coupled to the mixing valve 134 via another supply hose 151, a second port of the tee fitting 154 may be coupled to the second supply hose 152, and a third port of the tee fitting 154 may be coupled to a third supply hose 156 connected to the water heater 132. The water heater 132 may be coupled to a “hot water” input of the mixing valve 134 via a fourth supply hose 158, as shown. A force of the water pumped out by the water pump 148 and traveling into the water heater 132, via the connector 154 and hose 156, may be sufficient to force heated water to exit the water heater 132 through the fourth supply hose 158 and travel into a “hot water” input of the mixing valve 134. In this manner, the water pump 148 supplies both hot water and cold water to the mixing valve 134, which in turn provides water having an appropriate temperature to the faucet 102, upon demand, via the fifth supply hose 160 coupled between the output valve of the mixing valve 134 and the ECM adapter 146.
The ECM 142, the water pump 148, and the water heater 132 may be electrically coupled to the electric outlet 138 included in the lower cabinet 110 via appropriate electrical wires or cords in order to receive electrical power for its operations. For example, the water heater 132 may be electrically connected to, or plugged into, the outlet 138 using an electrical cable 164, as shown. The electrical outlet 138 may include at least one GFCI outlet for electrically coupling to a power cord of the water pump 148, at least one GFCI outlet for electrically coupling to a power cord of the water heater 132, and at least one outlet for coupling to an A/C adapter cord of the faucet 102, or more specifically the ECM 142, if not battery operated. The electric outlet 138, itself, may receive external power from the cable 112, once the power plug 114 is plugged into a wall socket, for example.
As shown in FIG. 11, a temperature and pressure relief valve 161 of the water heater 132 may be coupled to the fresh water tank 128 via a pressure relief hose 162. The hose 162 may be configured to deliver overflow water from the water heater 132 back to the water tank 128, as needed during a high temperature or pressure condition.
FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate another exemplary touchless washing station 200, in accordance with embodiments. The washing station 200 may be substantially similar to the washing station 100 of FIGS. 1-10 in many ways. For example, the washing station 200 includes a touchless faucet (not shown) like the touchless faucet 102, a touchless soap dispenser 204 like the touchless soap dispenser 104, a touchless towel dispenser 206 like the touchless towel dispenser 106, a countertop 209 with sink 208 like the countertop 109 and sink 108, wheels or casters 216 for enabling mobility of the station 200, like the casters 116, and recessed handles 218 to help the user grab hold of the station 200 during such movement, like the handles 118.
The washing station 200 also includes an upper wall 220 that is similar to the privacy shroud 120 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, except that each sidewall 222 b of the washing station 200 forms an “L” shape, such that the upper wall 220 is partially open at a top front section of each sidewall 222 b. This “L” or cut out shape is unlike the solid sidewalls 122 b shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, which extend out uniformly from the back wall 122 a to the front edge of the countertop 109.
As shown in FIGS. 12 and 123, to form the cut out, each sidewall 222 b includes a first portion 221 a that is adjacent rear wall 222 a and a second portion 221 b that is disposed lower than the first portion 221 a and adjacent to an open side of the countertop 209. More specifically, the first portion 221 a extends out horizontally from back wall 222 a for a first distance, d1, before curving downwards and extending vertically for a second distance, d2. And the second portion 221 b extends out horizontally from the first portion 221 a for a third distance, d3, before curving downwards and extending vertically for a fourth distance, d4, until meeting the countertop 209. In some embodiments, the cut-out section may be designed to allow more light into the washing area, to provide a more open or spacious feel when using the washing station 200, or otherwise improve a usability of the station 200.
The exact dimensions of the privacy shroud 220 (i.e. values for d1, d2, d3, and d4) may be determined based on the overall height of the handwashing station 200, a preferred amount of coverage or privacy to be provided for a user (or handwasher), and/or other manufacturing-related reasons. In one example embodiment, the first distance d1 is about 11 inches, the second distance d2 is about 10 inches, the third distance d3 is about 12 inches, and the fourth distance is about 16 inches.
As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the washing station 200 also includes a lower cabinet 210 like the lower cabinet 110, with an access door 224 on one side of the cabinet 210 to provide access to an inside of the cabinet 210, like the door 124 shown in FIG. 5. The access door 224 includes a latch 226, like the latch 126. Unlike the latch 126, the latch 226 may be coupled to a lock 227 for locking the door 224 (or securing the latch 226 in a closed position) and thereby, preventing unauthorized access to the lower cabinet 210. In some embodiments, the lock 227 may include a keyhole and may be locked or unlocked using an appropriate key. In other embodiments, the lock 227 may include any other suitable locking mechanism, including, for example, a keypad, an RFID reader, etc. As shown, the latch 226 may be a recessed door handle similar to the handles 218 on the front of the cabinet 210 for moving the station 200 around. In other embodiments, the latch 226 may be any other suitable handle or latch for opening and closing the door 224. In some embodiments, the lock 227 may be integrated into the latch 226.
Thus, the present disclosure provides a touchless washing station comprising a touchless faucet, touchless soap dispenser, and touchless towel dispenser in a self-contained, mobile unit that is configured to provide on-demand heated water using an adjustable thermostatic mixing valve. In addition to a water heater, the handwashing unit further includes a fresh water tank and separate waste water tank within an integrated cabinet, so that no outside plumbing connections are needed. The unit simply requires electrical connection to a power source, such as a standard wall outlet, in order to operate fully.
Also provided herein is a touchless washing station that can be directly connected to external water and drain plumbing lines. Such direct connect embodiments may include all or many of the same components found in the self-contained mobile units described herein and shown in FIGS. 1-13. For example, both types of units can include the same touchless faucet, touchless soap dispenser, touchless towel dispenser, internal water heater, and thermostatic mixing valve. However, the fresh water supply and waste water collection is provided via integrated connectors configured for coupling to external plumbing lines. In such embodiments, the touchless washing station may be configured only for direct plumbing connections and may not include a fresh water tank or a waste water tank.
Referring now to FIG. 14, shown is a rear view of an exemplary touchless washing station 300 configured for enabling a direct connect mode of operation, in accordance with embodiments. As illustrated, the touchless washing station 300 comprises a direct connect housing 370 with at least two external connection points, or connectors 372 and 374, for directly connecting the washing station 300 to external fresh water and waste water plumbing lines, respectively.
In many ways, the washing station 300 may be exactly or substantially similar to the washing station 100 of FIGS. 1-10 and/or the washing station 200 of FIGS. 12 and 13. For example, as illustrated, the touchless washing station 300 comprises an upper wall or shroud 320 with a solid back wall 322 a, similar to the privacy shroud 120 shown in FIGS. 1-3. Though not shown, the upper wall 320 may have two sidewalls on either side of the back wall 322 a that are similar in size and shape to either the sidewalls 122 b shown in FIGS. 1-3 or the sidewalls 222 b shown in FIGS. 12 and 13. As another example, the touchless washing station 300 comprises a lower body or cabinet 310 and a countertop 309 disposed between the upper wall 320 and the lower cabinet 310, similar to the countertop 109 and lower cabinet 110 shown in FIGS. 1-8. Likewise, the lower cabinet 310 rests on wheels or casters 316 that are similar to the casters 116 of washing station 100, one or more of which may include a locking feature like the locking casters 116 a. Moreover, the touchless washing station 300 also comprises a touchless faucet, a touchless soap dispenser, a touchless towel dispenser, and a sink, each of which is similar to the faucet 102, soap dispenser 104, towel dispenser 106, and sink 108 of the touchless washing station 100.
In view of the above similarities, front and side views of the touchless washing station 300 may be exactly or substantially similar to the front and side views of the touchless washing station 100 shown in FIGS. 1-5, or the front and side views of the touchless washing station 200 shown in FIGS. 12 and 13. Likewise, top and bottom views of the touchless washing station 300 may be exactly or substantially similar to the top and bottom views of the touchless washing station 100 shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. Accordingly, the front, side, top, and bottom views of the touchless washing station 300 are not shown herein, and the common components included therein are not described further, for the sake of brevity.
Referring additionally to FIG. 15, the housing 370 can include a fresh water connector 372 (also referred to herein as a “fresh water source”) configured for direct attachment to an external fresh water plumbing line, and a waste water connector 374 (also referred to herein as a “waste water collector”) configured for direct attachment to an external waste water plumbing line. In some embodiments, the fresh water connector 372 may be a female pipe thread (FPT) or a male garden hose thread (GHT) (e.g., ¾ inch), and the waste water connector 374 may be a male pipe thread (MPT) or a female garden hose thread (GHT) (e.g., ¾ inch),In other embodiments, each of the connectors 372 and 374 may have any other suitable type of pipe fitting and/or may be any other suitable type of plumbing connection.
Though not shown in FIG. 14, the direct connect housing 370 further comprises at least two internal connection points (not shown) disposed inside the lower cabinet 310 opposite the external connectors 372 and 374. The internal connection points, or connectors, can be fluidly connected to the external connectors 372 and 374, respectively, in order to transport fresh water into the washing station 300 from the external fresh water plumbing connection, and to transport waste water out of the washing station 300 to the external waste water plumbing connection. In some embodiments, the internal connectors can be substantially similar to the external connectors 372 and 374 in both overall look and function. Also not shown is a drain tube, similar to the drain tube 135, that can be connected between the sink drain (e.g., drain 137 shown in FIG. 6) and the internal waste water connector. Likewise, a water hose or tube (not shown) can be connected between the faucet and the internal fresh water connector.
Referring now to FIG. 16, shown is an exemplary schematic diagram of internal connections between certain components of the washing station 300, particularly those housed within the lower cabinet 310, in accordance with embodiments. Some of the depicted components, and the connections therebetween, are exactly or substantially similar to that shown in FIG. 11 with respect to washing station 100. For example, FIG. 16 shows faucet 302 comprising a sensor 340 and coupled to an ECM 342 via a supply line or hose 344, with an adapter 346 coupled between the ECM 342 and a mixing valve 334 via a second supply line or tube 360, similar to the faucet 102, the sensor 140, the ECM 142, the hose 144, the adapter 146, the mixing valve 134, and the fifth supply hose 160, respectively, of FIG. 11. Likewise, the washing station 300 further comprises a water heater 332 fluidly connected to the mixing valve 334 via a third supply line or hose 358 and to a tee connector 354 via a fourth supply line or tube 356, similar to the water heater 132, fourth supply hose 158, tee connector 154, and third supply hose 156, respectively, shown in FIG. 11.
The direct connect housing 370 includes an internal fresh water connection point, or connector, 376 that is fluidly connected to the external fresh water connector 372 shown in FIG. 15 in order to receive water flowing from a direct fresh water connection. The internal connector 376 may be coupled a fifth supply line or hose 378 via one or more valves, strainers, threads, fittings, and/or other connection pieces 380. As an example, the one or more connection pieces 380 may include an appropriate internal fresh water strainer and check valve.
The fifth supply hose 378 can be configured to connect the fresh water connection point 376 to the tee connector 354. The tee connector 354 can be configured to divide the incoming water flow (i.e. from the direct fresh water connection) between the mixing valve 334 and the water heater 332, similar to the tee connector 154 shown in FIG. 11. A force of the water traveling into the water heater 332 via the fourth supply hose 356 may be sufficient to force heated water out of the water heater 332, through the third supply hose 358, and into a hot water input of the mixing valve 334. Like the mixing valve 134, the mixing valve 334 also includes a cold water input coupled to the tee connector 354 via another supply hose 351 for delivering the rest of the fresh water received at the tee connector 354 to the mixing valve 334. In this manner, the direct fresh water line can be used to supply both the hot water flow and the cold water flow to the mixing valve 334, which in turn provides water having an appropriate temperature to the faucet 302 upon demand, via the second supply hose 360 coupled between an output valve of the mixing valve 334 and the ECM adapter 346.
As shown in FIG. 16, the water heater 332 may include a temperature and pressure relief valve 361 coupled to a pressure relief hose 362 that is configured to deliver overflow water from the water heater 332 to a designated container (not shown), or directly onto an interior floor of the cabinet, as needed during a high temperature or pressure condition.
As also shown, the water heater 332 can be electrically coupled to an electric outlet 338 included in the lower cabinet 310 via an appropriate electrical wire or cable 364. The faucet 302, or more specifically, the ECM 342, may also be electrically connected to the outlet 338 via an appropriate cable (not shown). The outlet 338 may be exactly or substantially similar to the outlet 138 shown in FIG. 11, and may be connected to an external power source (e.g., wall socket) using a power cable 312 and a power plug 314, like the cable 112 and plug 114 of FIG. 11.
In some embodiments, the touchless washing station is capable of accommodating either a direct connect mode of operation or a self-contained mode of operation, for example, by including the fresh water and waste water tanks required for self-contained operation, but also including the connectors for accommodating direct connections to external fresh water and waste water plumbing lines. In such cases, the owner or operator of the station can select a desired mode of operation and configure the washing station accordingly. For example, in some embodiments, the selected mode can be implemented by manually connecting appropriate plumbing lines internally (i.e. to the faucet, sink drain, and/or water heater) and/or externally, as needed. In other embodiments, the selected mode of operation can be implemented by turning a three-way valve to a first position configured to draw water from the pump 148 and the tank 128, or a second position configured to draw water from the directly connected water supply (e.g., as shown in FIG. 17 and described below).
FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary touchless washing station 400 configured for operation in multiple modes, including a direct connect mode and a self-contained mode, in accordance with embodiments. Like FIGS. 11 and 16, the diagram of FIG. 17 illustrates internal connections between certain components of the washing station 400, particularly those housed within a lower cabinet (not shown) of the station 400, for example, similar to the lower cabinet 110 shown in FIGS. 9 and 10. However, it should be appreciated that not all connections are shown, for the sake of brevity and ease of illustration. For example, FIG. 17 does not show the electrical connections between various devices, as they would be substantially similar to the electrical connections shown in FIGS. 11 and 16.
According to embodiments, the touchless washing station 400 is configured to operate in both direct-connect and self-contained modes by integrating the self-contained components of washing station 100 with the direct-connect components of washing station 300. As a result, several of the components shown in FIG. 17, and the connections therebetween, are exactly or substantially similar to the corresponding components of station 100 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11) and/or station 300 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 16).
For example, FIG. 17 shows a faucet 402 comprising a sensor 440 and coupled to an ECM 442 via a supply line or hose 444, with an adapter 446 coupled between the ECM 442 and a mixing valve 434 via a second supply line or tube 460, similar to the faucet 102/302, the sensor 140/340, the ECM 142/342, the hose 144/344, the adapter 146/346, the mixing valve 134/334, and the fifth supply hose 160/360, respectively, of FIGS. 11 and 16. Likewise, the washing station 400 further comprises a water heater 432 fluidly connected to the mixing valve 434 via a third supply line or hose 458 and to a tee connector 454 via a fourth supply line or tube 456, similar to the water heater 132/332, fourth supply hose 158/358, tee connector 154/354, and third supply hose 156/356, respectively, shown in FIGS. 11 and 16.
In addition, the washing station 400 comprises a fresh water tank 428 fluidly connected to a water pump 448 via a first supply hose 450 and to the water heater 432 via a pressure relief hose 462, similar to the fresh water tank 128, water pump 148, first supply hose 150, and pressure relief hose 162, respectively, shown in FIG. 11. These components are used when the washing station 400 is operating in a self-contained mode.
The washing station 400 also comprises a direct connect housing 470, which includes an internal fresh water connector 476, and other connection pieces 480 coupled thereto, for establishing a direct connection to an external fresh water line, similar to the direct connecting housing 370 shown in FIG. 16. These components are used when the washing station 400 is operating in a direct connect mode.
As shown in FIG. 17, the washing station 400 further comprises at least one valve 482 configured to selectively connect one of two water sources to the mixing valve 434, via the tee connector 454, and thus, the faucet 402. A first water source can be the fresh water tank 428 via the water pump 448, and a second water source can be the direct water connection established using the direct connect housing 470. The one or more valves 482 can be selectively moved between a first position configured to fluidly connect the first water source to the faucet 402, and a second position configured to fluidly connect the second water source to the faucet 402. According to embodiments, the one or more valves 482 may be manually operated or electrically operated. For example, in some cases, the one or more valves 482 may include a handle for mechanically selecting a position of the valve 482. In other cases, the one or more valves 482 may include a solenoid valve configured to electrically move or change the valve position in response to receiving an electrical signal.
In the illustrated embodiment, the one or more valves 482 is a three-way valve comprising two inlets 482 a and 482 b and one outlet 482 c. A first inlet 482 a is connected to the water pump 448 via a sixth supply line or hose 484, or the first water source. And a second inlet 482 b is connected to the direct connect housing 470 via the fifth supply line or hose 478, or the second water source. The outlet 482 c is connected to the tee connector 454 via a seventh supply line or hose 486, which is fluidly connected to the faucet 402 by extension. The valve 482 further includes a handle 482 d that is mechanically movable, e.g., by a user, between a first position for fluidly connecting the outlet 482 c to the first inlet 482 a and a second position for fluidly connecting the outlet 482 c to the second inlet 482 b. In other embodiments, the three-way valve 482 may be a solenoid valve configured to electrically change the valve position based on a received electrical signal (e.g., a first signal indicating movement to the first position and a second signal indicating movement to the second position).
In other embodiments, the one or more valves comprises a pair of two-way valves (not shown) coupled to separate input ends of a “Y” style plumbing fitting that has an output end coupled to the hose 486. One of the two-way valves may be further connected to the first water source via hose 484, and the other two-way valve may be connected to the second water source via hose 478. In some cases, the owner or operator may manually turn each valve on or off depending on a desired operating mode. In other cases, each two-way valve may be a solenoid valve that can be electrically operated, for example, in response to receiving an electrical signal indicating an on/off command.
Once the one or more valves 482 are in a desired position, water may flow from the selected water source to the tee connector 454, through the mixing valve 434 and out the faucet 402 in the same manner described herein with respect to washing station 100 or 300, depending on the selected water source.
The washing station 400 further comprises a first water collector housed within the lower cabinet and a second water collector connected to the lower cabinet. According to embodiments, the first water collector may be a waste water tank, for example, substantially similar to waste water tank 130 shown in FIG. 9, and the second water collector may be a connector configured for coupling to an external waste water plumbing line, for example, substantially similar to waste water connector 374 shown in FIG. 15. The washing station 400 further comprises a sink disposed below an output end of the faucet 402, a drain included in a bottom of said sink, and a drain tube or hose coupled to the drain, for example, similar to the sink 108, drain 137, and drain tube 135, respectively, of the washing station 100 shown in FIGS. 6 and 10. The drain may be fluidly connected to a selected one of the two waste water collectors using the drain hose. For example, a first end of the drain hose may be coupled to the drain and a second end of the drain hose may be connected to the selected water collector. In embodiments, the drain hose may be manually connected to either the first water collector or the second water collector depending on the selected operating mode (e.g., direct-connect or self-contained).
In this application, the use of the disjunctive is intended to include the conjunctive. The use of definite or indefinite articles is not intended to indicate cardinality. In particular, a reference to “the” object or “a” and “an” object is intended to denote also one of a possible plurality of such objects. Further, the conjunction “or” may be used to convey features that are simultaneously present instead of mutually exclusive alternatives. In other words, the conjunction “or” should be understood to include “and/or”. The terms “includes,” “including,” and “include” are inclusive and have the same scope as “comprises,” “comprising,” and “comprise” respectively.
The above-described embodiments, and particularly any “preferred” embodiments, are possible examples of implementations and merely set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the invention. Many variations and modifications may be made to the above-described embodiment(s) without substantially departing from the spirit and principles of the techniques described herein. All modifications are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A touchless washing station, comprising:

a lower body;

a countertop disposed above the lower body;

a faucet coupled to said countertop and configured to deliver heated water in response to touchless operation by a user;

a sink disposed in the countertop below an output end of said faucet;

a soap dispenser configured to deliver soap in response to touchless operation by the user;

a towel dispenser configured to deliver a disposable towel in response to touchless operation by the user; and

an upper wall coupled to at least one side of the countertop and supporting said soap dispenser and towel dispenser.

2. The touchless washing station of claim 1, wherein the upper wall is comprised of a continuous sheet of metal coupled to three sides of the countertop, a fourth side of the countertop forming a front face of the washing station.

3. The touchless washing station of claim 1, wherein the upper wall includes a rear wall coupled to the countertop behind the faucet and configured to support the soap dispenser and the towel dispenser.

4. The touchless washing station of claim 3, wherein the upper wall further includes two sidewalls coupled to the countertop on either side of the rear wall.

5. The touchless washing station of claim 4, wherein each sidewall includes a first portion adjacent the rear wall, and a second portion disposed lower than the first portion and adjacent a front face of the countertop opposite the rear wall.

6. The touchless washing station of claim 1, further comprising:

a fresh water source;

a water heater housed within the lower body and coupled to the fresh water source for heating water received from the fresh water source; and

a waste water collector fluidly connected to a drain of the sink.

7. The touchless washing station of claim 6, wherein the fresh water source is a water tank housed within the lower body, and the waste water collector is a waste water tank housed within the lower body.

8. The touchless washing station of claim 6, wherein the fresh water source is a first connector coupled to the lower body and configured for coupling to an external fresh water plumbing line; and the waste water connector is a second connector coupled to the lower body and configured for coupling to an external waste water plumbing line.

9. The touchless washing station of claim 6, further comprising a mixing valve fluidly connected to the faucet, the water heater, and the fresh water source, the mixing valve being configured to provide the heated water to the faucet.

10. The touchless washing station of claim 6, wherein the lower body further comprises an electric outlet configured to receive a first electric cable connected to the water heater and a second electric cable connected to the faucet.

11. The touchless washing station of claim 10, further comprising an external power cord electrically connected to the electric outlet and comprising a plug configured for electrical connection to an external wall socket.

12. The touchless washing station of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of wheels coupled to the lower body, at least one of the plurality of wheels including a lock configured to prevent rotation of the wheel.

13. The touchless washing station of claim 1, wherein the upper wall, the lower body, and the countertop are comprised of stainless steel.

14. The touchless washing station of claim 1, wherein each of the soap dispenser and the towel dispenser comprises a battery for supplying operating power to said dispenser.

15. A touchless washing station, comprising:

a lower body;

a first water source housed within said lower body;

a second water source connected to said lower body;

a faucet configured to deliver water in response to touchless operation by a user, the faucet being fluidly connected to a selected one of the first water source and the second water source;

an upper wall coupled to the lower body and supporting said soap dispenser and towel dispenser.

16. The touchless washing station of claim 15, wherein the first water source is a fresh water tank, and the second water source is a connector configured for coupling to an external fresh water plumbing line.

17. The touchless washing station of claim 15, further comprising a valve having a first position configured to fluidly connect the first water source to the faucet and a second position configured to fluidly connect the second water source to the faucet.

18. The touchless washing station of claim 15, further comprising:

a first water collector housed within the lower body;

a second water collector connected to said lower body; and

a sink disposed below an output end of the faucet and comprising a drain fluidly connected to a selected one of the first water collector and the second water collector.

19. The touchless washing station of claim 18, wherein the first water collector is a waste water tank, and the second water collector is a connector configured for coupling to an external waste water plumbing line.

20. The touchless washing station of claim 18, further comprising a hose having one end coupled to the drain and a second end coupled to a selected one of the first water collector and the second water collector.

21. The touchless washing station of claim 15, further comprising a water heater housed within the lower body and fluidly connected to the selected one of the first water source and the second water source, the water heater being configured to heat water received from the selected water source.

22. The touchless washing station of claim 21, further comprising a mixing valve fluidly connected to the faucet, the water heater, and the selected one of the first water source and the second water source, the mixing valve being configured to provide heated water to the faucet.

23. The touchless washing station of claim 15, further comprising a countertop disposed above the lower body and having at least one side coupled to the upper wall, the faucet being coupled to said countertop, and the sink being disposed in the countertop.