Patent Publication Number: US-2023135577-A1

Title: Multi-Function Fixture With Soap Refill System

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 17/398,693, filed on Aug. 10, 2021, which is a continuation-in-part of and claims priority to now pending U.S. application Ser. No. 16/245,937, filed on Jan. 11, 2019, which is a continuation in-part of and claims priority to issued U.S. Pat. No. 10,697,160, filed on Aug. 7, 2018 and issued on Jun. 30, 2020, which is a continuation in-part of and claims priority to issued U.S. Pat. No. 10,041,236, filed on Jun. 8, 2016 and issued on Aug. 7, 2018, the entire contents of each of the above are hereby expressly incorporated by reference into the present application. U.S. application Ser. No. 16/245,937, to which this application claims priority, is also a continuation-in-part of and claims priority to U.S. Pat. No. D847,305, filed on Feb. 10, 2017 and issued on Apr. 30, 2019, the entire contents of which are hereby expressly incorporated by reference into the present application. 
     U.S. application Ser. No. 17/398,693, filed on Aug. 10, 2021, also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/209,260, filed on Jun. 10, 2021, the entire contents of which are hereby expressly incorporated by reference into the present application. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates in general to the field of lavatory systems. More particularly, the present invention relates to a lavatory system having a multi-function fixture. Specifically, a preferred embodiment of the present invention relates to a multi-function fixture for a lavatory system at which a user receives soap and water to wash hands and at which an air flow is provided to dry the hands after washing. 
     2. Discussion of the Related Art 
     As is known to those skilled in the art, washrooms have historically included separate soap dispensers, wash basins with faucets, and hand dryers or towel dispensers. Soap dispensers may be located between wash stations or in a location convenient to several wash stations. When a user dispenses soap, excess soap may drip from the dispenser. If a user has previously placed hands under the faucet to first wet hands, then water also drips from the user&#39;s hands as soap is applied. If the soap dispenser is not located over the wash basin, the excess soap and/or water drips on the deck of the basin or on the floor depending on the location of the soap dispenser. Further, as a user moves between the wash basin and the hand dryer or towel dispenser, excess water drips from the user&#39;s hands to the deck of the basin or to the floor depending on the location of the hand dryer or towel dispenser. The need to move between stations when washing hands results in an undesirable mess in the washroom. 
     To reduce the amount of mess, it has been known to add a soap dispenser next to the faucet where both are located over the same basin. However, this still requires a user moving to a hand dryer or towel dispenser. Recently, lavatory systems have been developed that further include a drying station also located over the wash basin. Thus, the entire process of washing and drying a user&#39;s hands may be completed without moving away from the wash basin. 
     However, such stations have so far required more space per user than existing lavatory systems. The addition of a drying station may require a larger basin. Further, the soap dispenser, faucet, and hand dryer create three fixtures that must be positioned on the deck of the lavatory system and arranged around the basin. Thus, it would be desirable to provide a fixture for a lavatory system that incorporates each of the dispensing features and that may be realized without requiring additional space per user. 
     SUMMARY AND OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention is directed to a fixture for a lavatory system that incorporates each of the dispensing features required to wash a user&#39;s hands and that does not require additional space per user. In addition, the lavatory system includes a soap refill port disposed on the countertop adjacent the fixture. 
     In accordance to an embodiment of the invention, a lavatory system includes a countertop with a basin, a fixture extending over the basin, and a soap system mounted to the countertop adjacent the basin. The fixture includes at least one leg and an extension section extending from the at least one leg. A first outlet for dispensing water is disposed along the extension section, while a second outlet for dispensing soap is also disposed along the extension section. A first passage and a second passage are distributed through the at least one leg of the fixture. A first tube carries water through one of the first passage and the second passage, while a second tube caries soap through one of the first passage and the second passage. 
     The soap system includes a mounting component, a refill port, a cap, a soap container, and a soap pump. The mounting component is disposed within an orifice formed in the countertop. The refill port extends from the countertop, through the mounting component, and to the soap container disposed below the countertop. The cap is disposed on the countertop and over the opening of the refill port. The soap pump is fluidically coupled to the soap container. As a result, the soap pump is configured to transmit soap from the soap container to the second tube of the fixture. Further, a mounting bracket is secured below the countertop in order to support the soap container. 
     According to another aspect of the invention, the mounting bracket includes a top plate having an opening formed therein. As a result, the refill port and mounting component are able to pass through the opening of the top plate. In turn, a nut engages with a threaded portion of the mounting component below the top plate to secure the mounting bracket to the countertop. 
     According to yet another aspect of the invention, the mounting component may further include a spacer element disposed between the countertop and the top plate in order to space the mounting bracket from the countertop. In one instance, the spacer element may at least partially surround the refill port. In another instance, the spacer element may extend upward from the top plate of the mounting bracket. 
     According to another aspect of the invention, the mounting bracket also includes a side plate extending downward from a first side edge of the top plate and along a side of the soap container. The side plate includes a notch formed at a top edge of the side plate. Similarly, the top plate includes a notch formed at the first side edge of the top plate. The notch of the side plate aligns with the notch of the top plate. The mounting bracket also includes a bottom plate. In turn, the soap container is configured to rest on the bottom plate of the mounting bracket. 
     According to yet another aspect of the invention, the mounting bracket includes a bottom plate spaced apart from the top plate and configured to receive the soap container thereon in addition to a side plate extending between the top and bottom plates. The side plate may include an upper portion extending downward from the top plate to a location adjacent a top surface of the soap container, an intermediate portion extending outward from the upper portion along the top surface of the soap container, and a lower portion extending downward from the intermediate portion along a side of the soap container and to the bottom plate. In turn, the side plate is able to follow the contour of the soap container. 
     According to another embodiment of the invention, the side plate may include at least one side extension extending perpendicular from at least one of the first edge and the second edge of the side plate. For example, a first side extension may extend from a first edge of the side plate and along a side of the soap container, while a second side extension extends from the second edge of the side plate along an opposite side of the soap container. 
     According to yet another embodiment of the invention, a strap may extend from a location at or adjacent a first edge of the side plate, around the soap container, and to a location at or adjacent a second edge of the side plate. Openings may be formed in the side plate at or adjacent the first and second edges thereof either in the side plate or in its side extensions. 
     According to another aspect of the invention, the soap system further includes a display element configured to indicate to a user a soap level status of the soap container. Further, the fixture may include a third outlet disposed along the extension section for dispensing air. In addition, the at least one leg may be in the form of a first leg and a second leg. In such an instance, the first passage may be disposed in the first leg, while the second passage may be disposed in the second leg. 
     These and other aspects and objects of the present invention will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following description, while indicating preferred embodiments of the present invention, is given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the present invention without departing from the spirit thereof, and the invention includes all such modifications. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       A clear conception of the advantages and features constituting the present invention, and of the construction and operation of typical mechanisms provided with the present invention, will become more readily apparent by referring to the exemplary, and therefore non-limiting, embodiments illustrated in the drawings accompanying and forming a part of this specification, wherein like reference numerals designate the same elements in the several views, and in which: 
         FIG.  1    is an isometric view of a lavatory system incorporating a multi-function fixture according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG.  2    is front elevation view of the lavatory system of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  3    is a top plan view of the lavatory system of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  4    is a side elevation view of the lavatory system of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  5    is a sectional view of the lavatory system of  FIG.  3    taken at  5 - 5 ; 
         FIG.  6    is an isometric view of a multi-function fixture according to one embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG.  7    is a front elevation view of the multi-function fixture of  FIG.  6   ; 
         FIG.  8    is a bottom plan view of the multi-function fixture of  FIG.  6   ; 
         FIG.  9    is a right side elevation view of the multi-function fixture of  FIG.  6   ; 
         FIG.  10    is a left side elevation view of the multi-function fixture of  FIG.  6   ; 
         FIG.  11    is a sectional view of the multi-function fixture of  FIG.  7    taken at  11 - 11 ; 
         FIG.  12    is a sectional view of the multi-function fixture of  FIG.  7    taken at  12 - 12 ; 
         FIG.  13    is a sectional view of the multi-function fixture of  FIG.  7    taken at  13 - 13 ; 
         FIG.  14    is a partial top view of the multi-function fixture of  FIG.  6    with the upper surface removed; 
         FIG.  15    is a sectional view of one leg of the multi-function fixture of  FIG.  7    taken at  15 - 15 ; 
         FIG.  16    is a sectional view of one leg of the multi-function fixture of  FIG.  7    taken at  16 - 16 ; 
         FIG.  17    is a block diagram representation of the control system for the lavatory system of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  18    is a partial isometric view of a drain for the lavatory system of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  19    is a partial isometric view of one embodiment of a drain cover for the lavatory system of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  20    is a top plan view of a drain for the lavatory system of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  21    is a top plan view of the drain cover of  FIG.  19   ; 
         FIG.  22    is a sectional view of a basin, drain channel, and drain cover for the lavatory system according to another embodiment of the drain cover; 
         FIG.  23    is a sectional view of a basin, drain channel, and drain cover for the lavatory system according to another embodiment of the drain cover; 
         FIG.  24    is an isometric sectional view of a basin, drain channel, and drain cover for the lavatory system according to another embodiment of the drain channel; 
         FIG.  25    is a front sectional view of the basin, drain channel, and drain cover of  FIG.  24   ; 
         FIG.  26    is a top sectional view of the basin and drain channel of  FIG.  24   ; 
         FIG.  27    is a side sectional view of the basin, drain channel, and drain cover of  FIG.  24   ; 
         FIG.  28    is an isometric sectional view of a basin, drain channel, and drain cover for the lavatory system according to another embodiment of the drain channel; 
         FIG.  29    is a front sectional view of the basin, drain channel, and drain cover of  FIG.  28   ; 
         FIG.  30    is a top sectional view of the basin and drain channel of  FIG.  28   ; 
         FIG.  31    is a side sectional view of the basin, drain channel, and drain cover of  FIG.  28   ; 
         FIG.  32    is a partial flow diagram for air dispensed from the fixture according to one embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG.  33 A  is a partial flow diagram for air dispensed from the fixture across the drain cover of  FIG.  22   ; 
         FIG.  33 B  is a partial flow diagram for air within the basin using the drain cover of  FIG.  22   ; 
         FIG.  34 A  is a partial flow diagram for air dispensed from the fixture across the drain cover of  FIG.  23   ; 
         FIG.  34 B  is a partial flow diagram for air within the basin using the drain cover of  FIG.  23   ; 
         FIG.  35    is a partial flow diagram for air through an air return within the basin according to one embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG.  36    is a partial flow diagram for air through an air return within the basin according to another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG.  37    is a flow diagram illustrating air recirculation from the fixture, within the basin, and back to the fan according to one embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG.  38    is an isometric view of one embodiment of an aerator for the fixture used in the lavatory system; 
         FIG.  39    is a top plan view of the aerator of  FIG.  38   ; 
         FIG.  40    is a first side elevation view of the aerator of  FIG.  38   ; 
         FIG.  41    is a second side elevation view of the aerator of  FIG.  38   ; 
         FIG.  42    is a sectional view of the aerator of  FIG.  38    taken at  42 - 42  in  FIG.  40   ; 
         FIG.  43    is a sectional view of the aerator of  FIG.  38    taken at  43 - 43  in  FIG.  40   ; 
         FIG.  44    is an isometric view of a lavatory system incorporating a multi-function fixture and a soap refill system according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG.  45    is a top plan view of the lavatory system of  FIG.  44   ; 
         FIG.  46    is an isometric view of the soap refill system according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG.  47    is a front plan view of the soap refill system of  FIG.  46   ; 
         FIG.  48    is a side plan view of the soap refill system of  FIG.  46   ; 
         FIG.  49    is a rear isometric view of the lavatory system of  FIG.  1    incorporating the soap refill system of  FIG.  0 . 46   ; 
         FIG.  50    is an isometric view of the soap refill system according to another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG.  51    is a front plan view of the soap refill system of  FIG.  50   ; 
         FIG.  52    is a side plan view of the soap refill system of  FIG.  50   ; 
         FIG.  53    is a rear isometric view of the lavatory system of  FIG.  1    incorporating the soap refill system of  FIG.  50   ; 
         FIG.  54    is an isometric view of the soap refill system according to another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG.  55    is a front plan view of the soap refill system of  FIG.  54   ; 
         FIG.  56    is a side plan view of the soap refill system of  FIG.  54   ; 
         FIG.  57    is a rear isometric view of the lavatory system of  FIG.  1    incorporating the soap refill system of  FIG.  54   ; 
         FIG.  58    is an isometric view of the soap refill system according to yet another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG.  59    is a front plan view of the soap refill system of  FIG.  58   ; 
         FIG.  60    is side plan view of the soap refill system of  FIG.  58   ; 
         FIG.  61    is a rear isometric view of the lavatory system of  FIG.  1    incorporating the soap refill system of  FIG.  58   ; and 
         FIG.  62    is a block diagram representation of the control system for a lavatory system incorporating the multi-function fixture and soap refill system of  FIG.  44   . 
     
    
    
     In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention which is illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, it is not intended that the invention be limited to the specific terms so selected and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose. For example, the word connected, attached, or terms similar thereto are often used. They are not limited to direct connection but include connection through other elements where such connection is recognized as being equivalent by those skilled in the art. 
     DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     The present invention and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments described in detail in the following description. 
     Throughout this description, various terms denoting direction, such as left and right, front and rear, up and down, top and bottom, and the like may be used. The directions are not intended to be limiting but are used to describe relationships of elements with respect to each other in the accompanying drawings. Unless mutually exclusive, it is contemplated that the elements may be reversed, for example, by turning a component around or upside down without deviating from the scope of the present invention. 
     Turning initially to  FIG.  1   , a lavatory system  10  in accordance with one embodiment of the invention is illustrated. The lavatory system  10  includes a deck  12  that is configured to be mounted to a wall. With reference also to  FIG.  5   , wall mounts  21  are secured to the wall and the deck  12  is secured to the wall mounts  21 . The deck  12  has an upper surface  14  and an outer periphery  16  extending downward from the upper surface  14  and around the deck  12 . A basin  20  is located within the deck  12 . According to one embodiment of the invention, the deck  12  and the basin  20  may be integrally formed as a single unit. According to another embodiment of the invention, the basin  20  may be mounted to the deck  12 . It is further contemplated that the lavatory system  10  may be free-standing, supported by the floor rather than being wall mounted. Rather, than including a wall mount  21 , a support frame (not shown) may extend up from the floor, or other surface, on which the lavatory system  10  is installed. 
     The basin  20  is a recessed area below the upper surface  14  of the deck  12  and is configured to receive products dispensed into the lavatory system. According to the illustrated embodiment, the basin  20  includes a first side  22  (see also  FIG.  3   ) and a second side  24 , where the second side  24  is opposite the first side. Each of the first and second sides  22 ,  24  extend generally orthogonal to and away from the wall on which the lavatory system  10  is mounted. The basin  20  also includes a third side  26  extending downward from an upper edge which joins the upper surface  14  of the deck  12  along the rear of the basin and further extends between the first side  22  and the second side  24 . With reference also to  FIG.  5   , the third side  26  extends downward and the lower end of the third side forms, in part, a drain channel  62  in the bottom of the basin  20 . The basin  20  further includes a fourth side  28  extending downward from an upper edge which joins the upper surface  14  of the deck  12  along the front of the basin and also extends between the first side  22  and the second side  24 . The fourth side  28  of the basin  20  is sloped inward and downward from the front edge of the basin to a front edge of the drain channel  62 . Although the basin  20  is described in detail with respect to the illustrated embodiment, it is understood that the basin  20  may take various shapes as would be understood to one skilled in the art without deviating from the scope of the invention. 
     The lavatory system  10  includes a housing  40  located below the deck  12  and extending around the lower portion of the lavatory system  10 . According to the illustrated embodiment, the housing  40  includes a first side  42  and a second side  44 , where the second side is opposite the first side. A rear edge of each of the first side  42  and the second side  44  abuts the wall to which the lavatory system  10  is mounted. Each of the first side  42  and the second side  44  extend forward, generally orthogonal to the wall. A front surface  46  of the housing extends downward and to the rear from a lower surface  15  of the deck  12 . The front surface  46  extends the height of each of the first and second sides  42 ,  44 . According to one embodiment of the invention, each of the first side  42 , second side  44 , and front surface  46  extend to the floor. According to another embodiment of the invention, the each of the first side  42 , second side  44 , and front surface  46  extend to some height above the floor. The front surface  46  is sloped to the rear from where it abuts the lower surface  15  of the deck  12 . It is contemplated that the housing  40  may include a bottom surface (not shown) if the housing does not extend to the floor. Optionally, the housing may be open on the bottom as defined by the periphery of the first side  42 , second side  44 , front surface  46  and wall to which the lavatory system  10  is mounted. The housing  40  encloses the components of the lavatory system  10  located below the deck to provide a measure of protection to the components and to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance to the lavatory system  10 . Although the housing  40  is described in detail with respect to the illustrated embodiment, it is understood that the housing  40  may take various shapes as would be understood to one skilled in the art without deviating from the scope of the invention. 
     The lavatory system  10  further includes a drain system  60  extending longitudinally across the width of the basin  20 . With reference also to  FIGS.  18 - 21   , the drain system  60  includes a drain channel  62  and a drain cap  70 . According to the illustrated embodiment, the drain channel  62  is generally u-shaped. The drain channel  62  has a rear wall  63  and a front wall  64  extending the width of the basin  20 . The rear wall  63  of the drain channel  62  may be coplanar with the third side  26  of the basin  20  and form a continuous surface. Optionally, the drain channel  62  may be offset from the third side  26  of the basin, forming a channel in a lower surface (not shown) of the basin  20 . The drain channel  62  includes a lower surface  65  which also extends the width of the basin between the rear wall  63  and the front wall  64 . An opening  66  in the lower surface  65  of the drain channel  62  allows waste water to exist the basin  20  into a drainpipe  90  (as shown in  FIG.  5   ). The periphery of the drain opening  66  includes a pair of notches  68 , where a first notch  68  is located to the rear of the drain opening  66  and a second notch is located to the front of the drain opening  66 . Each notch  68  is configured to receive a tab  76  from the drain cap  70  as will be discussed in more detail below. 
     The drain cap  70  is configured to be removably mounted within the drain system  60 . The drain cap  70  includes a front surface  72 , a rear surface  74 , and a top surface  73 , where the top surface  73  spans between the front surface  72  and the rear surface  74  and each of the front, rear, and top surfaces extend the width of the drain channel  62 . Each of the front surface  72  and the rear surface  74  have a tab  76  extending downward from the respective surface. The tab  76  includes a first surface  77 , which is generally coplanar with and protrudes downward from the corresponding front or rear surface, and a second surface  78 , which is generally orthogonal to and protrudes outward from the first surface  77 . Preferably, the drain cap  70  and the tabs  76  are constructed of a sheet material, such as a stainless steel. The thickness of the sheet material provides sufficient rigidity that the drain cap  70  retains its desired shape if removed from the drain channel  62 . However, the width of each tab  76  and the thickness of the sheet material for the drain cap  70  allows the tab  76  to deflect inward when a force is applied. Such a force may be applied, for example, when inserting the drain cap  70  into the drain channel. Each tab  76  is deflected inward as the drain cap  70  is inserted into the drain channel and as each tab  76  is inserted through the notch  68  in the periphery of the drain opening  66 . The height of the first surface  77  of the tab  76  is equal to or greater than a thickness of the lower surface  65  of the drain channel  62 . As a result, when the drain cap  70  continues to be inserted, the tab  76  extends through the lower surface  65 . The material from which the tab  76  is made is resilient such that it returns to its original position once the tabs  76  are fully through the opening  66  in the drain channel  62 . The second surface  78  of each tab  76  extends under the lower surface  65  of the drain channel, positively retaining the drain cap  70  within the drain channel  62 . Applying pressure to each tab  76  such that the tab is again biased inward a sufficient distance that the second surface  78  is moved from beneath the lower surface  65  and within the periphery of the opening  66  of the drain channel  62  allows the drain cap  70  to be removed from the drain channel  62 . 
     It is further contemplated that each of the front surface  72  and the rear surface  74  of the drain cap  70  include a series of bumpers  75  affixed to the surface and spaced out along the length of the drain cap. The bumpers  75  fit between the front surface  72  of the drain cap  70  and the front wall  64  of the drain channel  62  and between the rear surface  74  of the drain cap  70  and the rear wall  63  of the drain channel  62 . The bumpers  75  define a press fit between the surfaces and help align the drain cap  70  within the drain channel  62 . In addition, because the drain cap  70  is preferably made from a metal material, such as stainless steel, and the basin  20  and drain channel  62  are preferably made from a synthetic resin material, stone material, or combination thereof, the bumpers  75  aid in preventing damage to the drain channel  62  from the drain cap  70  as the cap is inserted into or removed from the channel. 
     Further, the top surface  73  of the drain cap  70  may be configured to help guide the direction of airflow dispensed from fixture  100 . As will be discussed in more detail below, the fixture  100  is operative to dispense air flow into the basin  20  to dry a user&#39;s hands after washing. With further reference to  FIGS.  32 - 37   , a direction of airflow is indicated by arrows in the figures. The air is dispensed downward from the fixture  100  where it first hits the fourth side  48  of the basin  20  which is sloped downward and to the rear of the basin  20 . The air flow generally follows the slope of the fourth side  48  toward the drain channel  62 . 
     According to one embodiment of the invention, the drain cap  70  may be configured to guide the direction of the airflow toward the corners of the basin  20 . With reference to  FIG.  22   , the front surface  72  of the drain cap  70  may be longer than the rear surface  74 . As a result, the top surface  73  is sloped downward from the front wall  64  to the rear wall  63  of the drain channel  62 . A first angle, a, defined between the rear surface  74  and the top surface  73  of the drain cap  70  is an obtuse angle. A second angle, β, defined between the front surface  72  and the top surface  73  of the drain cap  70  is an acute angle. As shown in  FIG.  22   , the drain cap  70  may be configured such that the top surface  73  of the drain cap  70  is coplanar with the fourth side  28  of the basin  20 . The air continues to flow from the fourth side  28  of the basin along the top surface  73  of the drain cap  70  until it intersects with the third side  26  of the basin  20 . The air is then deflected both to the left and the right along the third side  26  of the basin and along the top surface  73  of the drain cap  70  toward the first and second sides  22 ,  24  of the basin  20 . 
     According to another embodiment of the invention, the drain cap  70  may be configured to guide the direction of the airflow upward along the third side  26  of the basin  20 . With reference to  FIG.  23   , the front surface  72  of the drain cap  70  may be shorter than the rear surface  74 . As a result, the top surface  73  is sloped upward from the front wall  64  to the rear wall  63  of the drain channel  62 . A first angle, a, defined between the rear surface  74  and the top surface  73  of the drain cap  70  is an acute angle. A second angle, β, defined between the front surface  72  and the top surface  73  of the drain cap  70  is an obtuse angle. According to one embodiment of the invention, the drain cap  70  is configured such that the top surface  73  of the drain cap  70  angles upward at an angle similar to the downward angle of the fourth side  28  of the basin  20 . As the air continues to flow from the fourth side  28  of the basin onto the top surface  73  of the drain cap  70  it is deflected upward. As the airflow intersects the third side  26  of the basin  20 , the air is further deflected both to the left and the right along the third side  26  of the basin. Thus, rather than traveling along the top surface  73  of the drain cap  70 , the air flow travels along the third side  26  in a generally upward and outward manner, as illustrated in  FIG.  34 ( b )  toward the first and second sides  22 ,  24  of the basin  20 . 
     Turning next to  FIGS.  24 - 27   , another embodiment of a drain system  60  is illustrated. In this embodiment, the depth of the drain channel  62  is increased. The front wall  64  and the rear wall  63  are tapered inward toward the channel  62 , such that when the drain cap  70  is inserted into the channel  62 , the top surface  73  of the drain cap  70  aligns in the manner discussed above. Optionally, a ridge or series of tabs may be molded along the front and rear walls  64 ,  63  on which the front and rear surfaces,  72 ,  74 , respectively, of the drain cap may be supported. 
     A drain plate  80  is inserted into the drain channel  62  to divide the channel  62  into two chambers. An upper chamber  81  is defined between the drain cap  70  and the drain plate  80 , and a lower chamber  83  is defined between the drain plate  80  and the lower surface  65  of the channel  62 . A series of supports  82  are integrally formed in the rear and front walls  63 ,  64  of the drain channel  62  to support the drain plate  80 . Each support  82  extends from the lower surface  65  of the channel  62  and for a portion of the height of the channel  62 . Each support protrudes into the channel  62  from the rear and front walls  63 ,  64  for a short distance, sufficient to support the drain plate  80  yet allowing water to flow along the channel  62 . The width of the drain plate  80  is generally equal to the width of the channel at the top of the supports  82 , such that the drain plate  80  may be set into the channel and rest on each of the supports  82 . 
     The drain plate  80  further includes a series of openings  84  spaced longitudinally along the plate  80  to allow water to flow from the upper chamber  81  to the lower chamber  83 . According to the illustrated embodiment, each opening  84  is located along on outer edge of the drain plate  80  and extends longitudinally along the drain plate  80 . The openings  84  may be spaced at intervals alternately to the supports  82 , such that the water may flow from the upper chamber  81  through the openings, between adjacent supports  82 , and into the lower chamber  83 . 
     The lower chamber  83  is in fluid communication with the drain opening  66 . Thus, when water is dispensed into the basin  20 , it runs down the fourth side  28  of the basin to the drain channel. The water flows around each edge of the drain cap  70  and into the upper chamber  81  while other debris is kept out of the drain channel by the drain cap  70 . The water then flows along the upper surface of the drain plate  80  toward the drain opening. As the water flows along the upper surface of the drain plate  80 , it falls through one of the openings  84  to the lower chamber  83 . Once in the lower chamber  83 , the water flows toward the drain opening  66  and out of the basin  20  to the drainpipe  90 . 
     Turning next to  FIGS.  28 - 31   , another embodiment of the drain system  60  is illustrated. In this embodiment, the drain system  60  again includes two chambers to direct water to the drain opening  66 . A first chamber  81  is defined by a drain channel  62  and drain cap  70  substantially the same as that discussed above with respect to  FIGS.  18 - 22   . A second chamber  83  is integrally formed within a lower surface of the basin  20 . According to the illustrated embodiment, a pipe  89  is integrally molded along the rear portion of and below the basin  20 . It is contemplated that the pipe  89  is positioned below the drain channel  62  and overmolded such that it is integrally formed with the basin  20 . Optionally, a second housing member may be secured to the bottom of the basin  20  and along the length of the drain channel  62 . The second housing member may be configured to hold the pipe  89  below the drain channel  62  as discussed above. 
     Whether the pipe  89  is integrally molded or separately mounted below the basin  20 , a series of openings  84  are formed through the lower surface  65  of the drain channel  62  and into the pipe  89 . The openings  84  may be formed, for example, by drilling holes through the lower surface  65  and into the pipe  89 . The openings  84  establish fluid communication between the first chamber  81  and the second chamber  83 . Thus, when water is dispensed into the basin  20 , it runs down the fourth side  28  of the basin to the drain channel. The water flows around each edge of the drain cap  70  and into the first chamber  81  while other debris is kept out of the drain channel by the drain cap  70 . The water then flows along the lower surface  65  of the first chamber  81  toward the drain opening  66 . As the water flows along the lower surface  65  of the first chamber  81 , a portion of the water falls through one of the openings  84  to the second chamber  83 . The portion of the water in the second chamber  83  also flows toward the drain opening  66 . Whether flowing in the first chamber  81  or the second chamber  83 , the water reaches the drain opening  66  and flows out of the basin  20  to the drainpipe  90 . 
     Although the drain channel  62  and drain cap  70  are described in detail with respect to the illustrated embodiments, it is understood that the drain channel  62  and drain cap  70  may take various shapes, where the drain cap  70  remains complementary to the drain channel  62  for insertion and removal, as would be understood to one skilled in the art without deviating from the scope of the invention. 
     Turning next to  FIGS.  35 - 37   , the basin  20  may further be configured to recirculate at least a portion of the airflow dispensed from the fixture  100 . In addition to directing the airflow to the sides or up the rear of the basin  20 , the basin  20  may include a ridge  27  protruding over the basin  20  to collect a portion of the airflow. The ridge may extend around the first side  22 , the second side  24 , or the third side  26  of the basin to capture air travelling up the side or rear of the basin  20 . Optionally, a channel  29  may be formed on the rear side of the basin  20  which directs the airflow back down the outside of the basin  20  under the deck  12 . The airflow may be channeled to a return duct  33  which in turn provides air to the input of the fan  210 . Preferably, a filter  354  is included between the return duct  33  and the input to the fan  210  to remove water, soap, dirt, and other contaminants from the airflow prior to returning the air to the fan  210 . 
     According to another embodiment of the invention, the basin  20  may include an opening in the side. The opening may include a series of louvers  31  to prevent water dispensed from the fixture  100  from entering the opening. The airflow travelling up the sides may enter the opening. Similar to the embodiment including a ridge  27 , a channel  29  may be provided on the rear of the basin and the airflow directed back toward the fan  210 . 
     The lavatory system  10  also includes a multi-function fixture  100  located at each hand washing station for the lavatory system  10 . According to the illustrated embodiment, the lavatory system  10  includes two wash stations. It is contemplated that the lavatory system  10  may be configured with a single wash station and have just one fixture  100  or, optionally, the lavatory system  10  may be configured with three or more wash stations, where each wash station has a separate fixture  100 . The width of the lavatory system will vary according to the number of wash stations present. 
     Turning next to  FIGS.  6 - 10   , a multi-function fixture  100  for the lavatory system  10  according to one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The fixture  100  includes a pair of legs  110 . When viewed from the front, a first leg  110   a  is positioned to the right side of the fixture  100  and a second leg  110   b  is positioned to the left side of the fixture  100 . The exterior of each leg  110   a ,  110   b  is mirrored about a center axis  101  of the fixture  100 . For convenience, therefore, a single leg  110  will be discussed in detail, where the discussion will be equally applicable to the right leg  110   a  and the left leg  110   b.    
     According to the illustrated embodiment, the leg  110  has a first end  112  configured to be mounted to the deck  12  and a second end  114  extending over the basin  20 . A mounting surface  113  on the first end  112  of the leg  110  engages the upper surface  14  of the deck  12 . The leg  110  includes a generally rectangular cross-section where the cross-section decreases in size between the first end  112  and the second end  114  of the leg  110 . When mounted to the deck  12 , the leg  110  slopes forward as it extends upward from the deck  12 . From a side-view, the leg  110  is generally r-shaped. The leg  110  extends upwards from the deck  12  and forwards toward the basin  20 . After extending for a height, H, a bend  115  in the leg causes the leg to protrude in a generally horizontal plane for a length, L, until the second end  114  of the leg is positioned over the basin  20 . 
     With reference also to  FIG.  11   , the first end  112  of each leg  110  is configured to be mounted to the deck  12 . An opening  111  extends through the mounting surface  113  and is in communication with a passage  120  within the leg  110 . A base  130  is received within the opening  111  and secures the fixture  100  to the deck  12 . The base  130  also includes a passage  139  extending therethrough which is in fluid communication with the passage  120  in the leg  110 . According to the illustrated embodiment, the base  130  includes a first end  132  configured to be inserted into the leg  110  and a second end  134  configured to be inserted into an opening in the deck  12 . The opening  111  in the leg  110  includes a threaded inner periphery that is complementary to a threaded outer periphery of the first end  132  of the base  130 . The base  130  may, therefore, be rotatably inserted into the opening  111  such that the threads engage and positively retain the base  130  to the leg  110 . It is contemplated that the base  130  may alternately be secured to the leg  110 , for example, via a snap fit or other suitable securing method. According to another embodiment, the base  130  is integrally molded with the leg  110  such that a portion of the leg  110  extends through the opening to secure the fixture  100  to the deck  12 . A second section  136  of the base  130  is displaced longitudinally along the base  130  such that is configured to be located, at least in part, below the deck  12 . The second section  136  includes a threaded outer surface to receive a nut  135 , and an upper surface  137  of the nut  135  is configured to engage the lower surface of the deck  12 . To secure the fixture  100  to the deck  12 , the base  130  is affixed to each leg  110  and inserted through the opening in the deck  12 . The nut  135  is threaded onto the base from below the deck such that the upper surface  137  of the nut  135  and the mounting surface  113  of the leg  110  engage opposite surfaces of the deck  12  and secure the fixture  100  to the deck  12 . 
     A connecting section  140  extends between the second ends  114  of each leg  110 . The connecting section  140  has a first end  142  connected to the second end  114   a  of the first leg  110   a  and a second end  144  connected to the second end  114   b  of the second leg  110   b . The cross-section of the first end  142  of the connecting section  140  is the same as the cross-section of the second end  114   a  of the first leg  110   a  and the cross-section of the second end  144  of the connecting section  140  is the same as the cross-section of the second end  114   b  of the second leg  110   b . Consequently, the fixture  100  appears as a continuous unit as it transitions between each leg  110  and the connecting section  140 . Further, it is contemplated that at least a portion of the first leg  110   a , the second leg  110   b , and the connecting section  140  may be cast, or otherwise manufactured, as a single unit. As a result, despite identifying ends of the legs  110  and ends of the connecting section  140 , the locations of the ends are for illustrative purposes and may be moved axially along the leg or along the connecting section  140  without deviating from the scope of the invention. 
     The connecting section  140  includes multiple outlets for dispensing product over the basin  20  of the lavatory system  10 . A first outlet  160  is operable to dispense soap, a second outlet  180  is operable to dispense water, and a third outlet  200  is operable to dispense air. The outlets  160 ,  180 ,  200  are spaced apart along the connecting section  140  such that a user&#39;s hands move along the connecting section  140  between outlets during the washing process. Each leg  110  includes a passage  120  defined within the interior of the leg for delivery of a product to one of the outlets. The soap and water may be delivered via tubes extending from below the deck  12  up through the passage  120  in one of the legs  110  the respective outlet. The passage  120  within one of the legs  110  is configured as an air duct to, at least in part, convey air from a blower located below the deck  12  to the air outlet. With reference also to  FIGS.  15  and  16   , exemplary sectional views of the passage  120  in each leg are illustrated. The passage  120   b  in the second leg  110   b  has a maximum sectional area to provide room for the tube  162  carrying soap and the tube  182  carrying water to be run through the passage  120   b . The passage  120   a  in the first leg  110   a  has a sectional area closely corresponding to the passage  139  in the base  130   a . By having the sectional areas of the passage  120   a  in the leg  110   a  and the passage  139  in the base  130   a  correspond to each other, the turbulence of the air flow is reduced as the air passes from the base  130   a  into the leg  110   a . The passage  120   a  of the leg  110  then forms a duct through which the air is conveyed to the air outlet  200 . 
     The connecting section  140  may also include indicators to a user identifying the location of each outlet. According to the illustrated embodiment, openings  103  are located along the front edge of the connecting section  140  through which an indicator may be displayed. A multi-color light-emitting diode (LED)  305 , or red-green-blue LED array, (see also  FIG.  17   ) is located behind each opening  103 . It is contemplated that each opening may have a lens or be a translucent material rather than an opening to prevent soap, water, dirt, or other contaminants from entering the fixture  100 . The LED  305  may emit different colors according to operation or flash to direct a user&#39;s attention to the location. Optionally, larger displays utilizing, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) may provide a graphical or other visual indication to the user of the purpose of each outlet located by the indicator. 
     The system for dispensing soap includes a soap reservoir, pump, and tubing to connect the pump to the soap outlet  160 . The soap reservoir  310  and soap pump  316  are represented in block diagram form in  FIG.  17   . The soap reservoir  310  may include a level detection switch  312 , such as a float switch, which generates a level detection signal  314 , provided to a control circuit  302 , corresponding to the amount of soap remaining in the reservoir  310 . The pump  316  is activated by one or more sensors  301  located in the fixture  100  detecting the presence of a user&#39;s hands by the soap outlet  160 . The pump  316  draws soap from the reservoir  310  and into a tube  162  connected between the pump  316  and the soap outlet  160 . The tube is run inside the passage  120  in either the first leg  110   a  or the second leg  110   b  and into the connecting section  140  of the fixture. In the connecting section  140 , the tube  162  is fit onto a nozzle  164  which extends through the outlet  160 . The soap is discharged from the nozzle  164  through the outlet  160  onto a user&#39;s hands. 
     The system for dispensing water includes one or more inlet lines  322 , connected to a water supply, one or more valves  320 , and one or more outlet lines  324  to supply water to the water outlet  180 . The inlet line  322  may be connected to a cold water supply, a hot water supply, or to a mixed water supply, where the mixed water supply includes a combination of hot and cold water. It is desirable to provide water at a comfortable temperature to the user. Therefore, a mixing valve may be provided in advance of the inlet line  322  that combines cold and hot water proportionally to supply water at a desired temperature. Optionally, the valve  320  may be a mixing valve which includes a first inlet line  322  from the cold water supply and a second inlet line  322  from a hot water supply. A signal  326  from the control circuit  302  may control the valve  320  not only in an on/off manner, but also in a proportional manner to mix the cold and hot water to supply water at a desired temperature. The outlet line  324  from the valve  320  is connected via a second tube  182  to the water outlet  180 . An aerator  400  may be provided within the water outlet  180  includes a water inlet  402  to which the outlet line  324  from the valve  320  is connected. 
     Referring next to  FIGS.  38 - 43   , one embodiment of the aerator  400  is illustrated. The aerator  400  includes an upper housing  410  and a lower housing  450 . According to the illustrated embodiment, the upper housing  410  is integrally formed with a removable plate  190  that may be inserted into and removed from an opening on the lower surface of the connecting section  140  of the fixture. The upper housing  410  includes two generally cylindrical chambers. A first, intake chamber  420  is formed in the upper portion of the upper housing  410 . A first wall segment  412  of the upper housing  410  extends downward from an upper surface  411  of the upper housing  410 . The first wall segment  412  may join the upper surface  411  at a generally curved edge that extends around the periphery of the upper housing  410 . The intake chamber  420  has a first diameter defined by the inner periphery of the first wall segment  412 . A second, outlet chamber  430  is formed in the lower portion of the upper housing  410 . A second wall segment  414  extends downward from the first wall segment  412  to a lower edge  416  of the upper housing  410 . The second wall segment  414  has a diameter greater than the diameter of the first wall segment  412 , and a generally curved edge joins the first and second wall segments  412 ,  414 . The lower surface of the upper housing  410  is generally open and the lower edge  416  defines a generally circular opening into which the lower housing  450  may be inserted. The inner surface  415  of the second wall segment  414  is threaded and is configured to receive a complementary thread on the outer periphery  460  of the lower housing  450 . According to other embodiments of the invention, it is contemplated that the lower housing  450  may be secured to the upper housing  410  by other methods, including, for example, by a snap fit, cam lock, pin, screw, or other suitable retainer. 
     The water inlet  402  extends outward from the first wall segment  412  and defines a fluid communication path between the second tube  182 , through which the water flows, and the intake chamber  420 . The water inlet  402  is generally cylindrical and includes a passage  404  extending axially through the inlet  402 . The second tube  182  may be press fit onto a first end  401  of the water inlet  402  and the second end  403  of the water inlet  402  is integrally formed with the first wall segment  412 . Preferably, the second end  403  of the water inlet  402  joins one side of the upper housing  410 . Water flowing through the second tube  182  enters the passage  404  and exits along the inner periphery of the first wall segment  412 . The water is supplied at a sufficient pressure such that the water follows the inner periphery of the first wall segment  412  swirling around the interior of the intake chamber  420 . 
     The lower housing  450  is a generally cylindrical disk configured to be inserted into the upper housing  410 . As previously indicated, the outer periphery  460  of the lower housing  450  is threaded such that the lower housing  450  may rotatably engage the complementary threaded inner surface  415  of the upper housing  410 . The disk includes an upper surface  462  and a lower surface  464 , opposite the upper surface. A plurality of passages  470  extend between the upper surface  462  and the lower surface  464 . The upper surface  462  is sloped upward from an outer edge to the center of the upper surface  462 , forming a generally conical surface. Multiple nozzles  480  protrude downward from the lower surface  464 . One of the passages  470  extends through each nozzle  480 , and the nozzles  480  define the water outlet  180  for the fixture  100 . Because the water enters the intake chamber  420  along the inner periphery and swirls around the chamber, the water more uniformly fills the chamber than if the water entered the chamber at a central location and hit the opposing surface of the chamber. The water then exits the intake chamber  420  through each of the nozzles  480  with a generally uniform pressure and flow. 
     Although the aerator  400  has been described according to the illustrated embodiment, it is contemplated that the aerator  400  may be formed utilizing other members without deviating from the scope of the invention. For example, the aerator  400  may be formed as a single housing with the upper housing  410  and lower housings  450  integrally formed and either fixedly or removably mounted within the connecting section  140  of the fixture  100 . 
     The system for dispensing air includes a fan  210  located below the deck  12  operable to deliver air to the air outlet  200 . According to one embodiment of the invention, the fan  210  includes a centrifugal fan driven by a motor. The motor may be operated at variable speeds to adjust the airflow rate supplied by the fan. The fan  210  draws air in through an air inlet located within the housing  40  under the deck  12 . A filter  354  may be provided at the inlet to capture contaminants present in the air prior to air entering the air inlet for the fan  210 . With reference also to  FIG.  5   , an air duct  215  connects an outlet of the fan  210  to the passage  139  in the base  130 , which is, in turn, connected to a passage  120  within the leg  110  of the fixture  100 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  10 ,  14 , and  16    the passage  120  serves as a continuation of the air duct  215  between the fan  210  and the air outlet  200 . The surface of the passage  120  is preferably smooth to minimize turbulence of the air flow through the passage. A boss  122  may be provided between opposing surfaces of the passage  120  to provide improved rigidity of the fixture  100 . The boss  122  includes a front end  123 , indicating it receives the air flow first, and a rear end  125 , indicating it receives the air flow last. The boss  122  widens toward the middle and tapers toward each end, such that each of the front and rear ends  123  and  125  are preferably narrow and rounded to minimize disturbance of the air flow through the passage  120 . 
     An inner wall  124  is provided beyond the air outlet  200  to terminate the passage  120  and separate the air passage from other interior regions of the fixture  100 . The inner wall  124  is generally orthogonal to and intersects the air flow through the passage, causing the air flow to equalize over the surface of the inner wall  124  by pressure shock when the air flow hits the inner wall  124 . The air outlet  200  is located on a lower surface of the fixture  100  prior to the inner wall  124  with respect to the direction of air flow. The air outlet  200  includes a nozzle  202  with a grid  204  defined in the nozzle. Each member of the grid  204  is in a generally vertical plane to direct the airflow downward from the nozzle  202 . The air flow is, therefore, directed generally ninety degrees downward and out the air outlet  200  after hitting the inner wall  124 . The duct  215  from the fan and the passages  139 ,  120  within the base  130  and leg  110 , therefore, deliver air to the air outlet  200  to dry a user&#39;s hands. 
     Control signals  352  pass between the fan  210  and a control circuit  302 . The control signals  352  may include, for example, a start command, a stop command, a speed command, or a combination thereof to control operation of the fan  210 . Feedback signals may also be provided from the fan  210  to a control circuit  302  corresponding to operation of the fan or of the condition of the filter. Although not shown, it is contemplated that the system for dispensing air may include a heater located along the air flow path to increase the temperature of the air prior to delivering the air to the user&#39;s hands. 
     In operation, a control system  300  is provided that manages operation of the lavatory system  10 . Referring next to  FIG.  17   , the control system  300  includes a control circuit  302  mounted to the lavatory system  10 . According to one embodiment of the invention, the control circuit  302  is provided on a circuit board mounted in an enclosure below the deck  12  and within the housing  40  of the lavatory system  10  to protect the control circuit from being splashed by water. Optionally, the control circuit  302  may be potted to provide further protection from moisture in a lavatory. The control circuit  302  includes memory  306  configured to store operating parameters for the lavatory system  10  and instructions for executing on a processor  304  to control operation of the lavatory system  10 . It is contemplated that the memory  306  may be volatile, non-volatile, or a combination thereof and may be a single or multiple devices. The processor  304  is operable to execute the instructions stored in memory  306  to achieve a desired operation of the lavatory system  10 . It is contemplated that the processor  304  may be a single device or multiple devices. The control circuit  302  further includes other analog and/or digital devices to receive feedback signals from sensors, transmit control signals to actuators, and manage other such control related functions as would be understood in the art. It is further contemplated that the control circuit  302  may be located entirely on a single circuit board and located within a single enclosure or, optionally, portions of the control circuit  302  may be distributed about the lavatory system  10  without deviating from the scope of the invention. 
     The control circuit  302  receives feedback signals  303  from sensors  301  in the fixture  100  indicating a user&#39;s hands are present for washing and/or drying proximate the fixture  100 . According to the illustrated embodiment, four sensors  301  are provided in the fixture  100  to control the soap, water, and air delivery from the fixture  100 . According to another embodiment, it is contemplated that three sensors  301  may be provided where a single sensor  301  is located proximate to each outlet. According to still another embodiment more than four sensors  301  may be provided. It is contemplated that each sensor  301  is located within the connecting section  140  of the fixture and above the lower wall of the connecting section  140 . A portion of the lower wall may include an opening  103  through which the sensor may transmit a signal, such as a radio frequency (RF) or an infrared signal. The signal is reflected off the user&#39;s hands and received at the sensor  301  to detect the presence of the user&#39;s hands. If a line-of-sight sensor is used it is contemplated that a portion of the lower housing may be made of a translucent material as an alternative to providing an opening, allowing the emitted sensor signal to pass through. Optionally, a lens may be inserted in the opening  103  to allow the emitted signal to pass and to prevent water, soap, dirt, or other contaminants from entering the opening. According to another embodiment, the sensor  301  may emit a signal capable of passing through the housing of the connecting section  140 . For example, a magnetic field may be generated and a disturbance in the field due to the presence of a user&#39;s hands may be detected. Still other sensing technology, such as capacitive sensing of a user&#39;s hands may be utilized without deviating from the scope of the invention. 
     Including more sensors  301  than outlets allows the control circuit  302  to determine information about the location and/or direction of approach for a user&#39;s hands in addition to just being located proximate to an outlet. According to the illustrated embodiment, the two inner sensors  301  may be located on either side of the water outlet  180 . As a user&#39;s hands approach the water outlet  180  after receiving soap, one of the inner sensor  301  located on the same side of the water outlet  180  as the soap outlet  160  is activated first. If a user&#39;s hands are approaching the water outlet  180  from the hand dryer side of the fixture  100  the other inner sensor  301  is activated first. When the user&#39;s hands area located under the water outlet  180 , both of the inner sensors  301  are arranged to detect the hands. The control circuit may generate different control signals responsive to the sequence in which the inner sensors are activated. 
     Looking first at the control of the soap system, at least one sensor  301  is located near the soap outlet  160  to detect a user&#39;s hands located below the outlet  160 . When a user&#39;s hands are located beneath the soap outlet  160 , the sensor  301  generates a feedback signal  303  to the control circuit indicating their presence. In response to receiving the feedback signal  303 , the control circuit  302  may flash or change the color of the LED  305  for the soap outlet  160  to provide an indication to the user that the hands were detected by the soap outlet  160 . The control circuit  302  may also generate a control signal  318  to the soap pump  316 , causing it to activate such that soap is dispensed. The soap pump  316  may be energized for a predefined period of time or execute one or more fixed pumping cycles, drawing soap from the reservoir  310  and up through the soap tube  162  to the soap nozzle  164  where it is dispensed onto the user&#39;s hands. It is further contemplated that the sensor  301  proximate the soap outlet  160  may be configured to detect a user&#39;s hands for only a short distance below the fixture  100 . For example, the user&#39;s hand may need to be within three inches or within two inches of the sensor  301  to detect their presence. This detection distance is preferably configurable within the sensor  301  and may be set less than the detection distance of the water outlet as will be discussed in more detail below. 
     The controller  302  may further be configured to interlock the soap dispenser based on other activity at the fixture  100 . For example, if the air dryer is active, it may be desirable to prevent soap from being dispensed such that it is not blown around the basin. Further, it may be desirable to require a user to remove their hands prior to dispensing additional soap. This prevents continued dispensing of soap if the user leaves their hands under the soap outlet  160  for an extended period of time or if, for example, a foreign object falls in the basin  20  under the fixture  100  proximate the soap outlet  160 . 
     A level detection sensor  312 , such as a float switch, may be provided within the reservoir. The level detection sensor  312  generates a feedback signal  314  to the control signal when the soap level is low and requires refilling. The control circuit  302  may activate the LED  305  proximate the soap outlet  160  in a manner indicating the soap level is low. For example, the control circuit  302  may flash the LED  305  or turn the color of the LED to red indicating that the level is low. 
     Turning next to control of the water system, at least one sensor  301  is located near the water outlet  180  to detect a user&#39;s hands located below the outlet  180 . When a user&#39;s hands are located beneath the water outlet  180 , the sensor  301  generates a feedback signal  303  to the control circuit indicating their presence. In response to receiving the feedback signal  303 , the control circuit  302  may flash or change the color of the LED  305  for the water outlet  180  to provide an indication to the user that the hands were detected by the water outlet  180 . The control circuit  302  may also generate a control signal  326  to the water valve  320 , causing it to activate such that water is dispensed. The water valve  320  may be energized for a predefined time or may remain on while the user&#39;s hands are detected under the water outlet  180 . 
     It is further contemplated that the sensor  301  proximate the water outlet  180  may be configured to detect a user&#39;s hands below the fixture  100  for a distance equal to the height of the fixture  100  above the basin  20 . As a result, the user&#39;s hands will be detected at any height between the water outlet  180  and the basin  20 . This detection distance is preferably configurable within the sensor  301  and may be set greater than the detection distance of the soap outlet. Requiring the user to position their hands closer to the soap outlet to receive soap than is required to dispense water will help prevent inadvertent dispensing of soap. For example, as a user rinses the soap from their hands under the water outlet  180 , the hand, arm, or a portion thereof may move under the soap outlet  160 . However, a user typically positions their hands at a distance below the water outlet  180  to avoid water splashing or spraying from their hands or from making contact with the fixture  100  while rinsing the hands. The distance users typically position their hands is greater than the distance at which the sensor  301  proximate the soap outlet is set for detection. As a result, even if a portion of the user&#39;s hands or arm moves under the sensor  301  for the soap while using the water outlet  180 , additional soap is not dispensed. 
     The control circuit  302  may further be configured to provide interlocks in dispensing water from the fixture  100 . For example, if the air dryer is active, it may be desirable to prevent water from being dispensed such that it is not blown around the basin. Further, it may be desirable to require a user to remove their hands from beneath the water outlet  180  and stop dispensing water to dispensing air. A maximum duration may also be configured for which the water outlet  180  may dispense water without requiring the user to remove and reinsert their hands beneath the water outlet  180 . This prevents continued dispensing of water if the user leaves their hands under the water outlet  180  for an extended period of time or if, for example, a foreign object falls in the basin  20  under the fixture  100  proximate the water outlet  180 . 
     Turning then to control of the air system, at least one sensor  301  is located near the air outlet  200  to detect a user&#39;s hands located below the outlet  200 . When a user&#39;s hands are located beneath the air outlet  200 , the sensor  301  generates a feedback signal  303  to the control circuit indicating their presence. In response to receiving the feedback signal  303 , the control circuit  302  may flash or change the color of the LED  305  for the air outlet  200  to provide an indication to the user that the hands were detected by the air outlet  200 . The control circuit  302  may also generate a control signal  352  to the fan  210 , causing it to activate such that air is dispensed. The fan  210  may be energized for a predefined time or may remain on while the user&#39;s hands are detected under the air outlet  200 . 
     The sensor  301  proximate the air outlet  200  may be configured to detect a user&#39;s hands below the fixture  100  for a distance equal to the height of the fixture  100  above the basin  20 . As a result, the user&#39;s hands will be detected at any height between the air outlet  200  and the basin  20 . This detection distance is preferably configurable within the sensor  301  and may be set greater than the detection distance of the soap outlet. The motor for the fan  210  may be configured to operate at multiple speeds. It is contemplated that one speed will be selected when the lavatory system is configured, or reconfigured, and that the motor will run at that speed each time the sensor  301  detects a user&#39;s hands beneath the air outlet  200 . According to one aspect of the invention, the motor speed may be selected such that a user&#39;s hands are dried within a desired time duration. The selected speed may vary, for example, as a function of the size of the fixture  100 , the volume of air delivered by the fixture, or whether a heater is present within the air flow. According to another aspect of the invention, the motor speed may be selected such that the motor and air flow generate noise at an acceptable level while the user&#39;s hands are located within the air stream. 
     The control circuit  302  may further be configured to provide interlocks in dispensing air from the fixture  100 . For example, if the air dryer is active, it may be desirable to prevent water from being dispensed such that it is not blown around the basin. Further, it may be desirable to require a user to remove their hands from beneath the air outlet  200  and stop dispensing air prior to dispensing water. A maximum duration may also be configured for which the air outlet  200  may dispense air without requiring the user to remove and reinsert their hands beneath the air outlet  200 . This prevents continued dispensing of air if the user leaves their hands under the air outlet  200  for an extended period of time or if, for example, a foreign object falls in the basin  20  under the fixture  100  proximate the air outlet  200 . 
     According to another aspect of the invention, the lavatory system  10  may include one or more approach sensors  370 . Each approach sensor  370  may be mounted on an inside surface of the housing  40  and in line with one of the fixtures  100 . The housing  40  may include an opening  371  through which the sensor may transmit a signal, such as a radio frequency (RF) or an infrared signal. The signal is reflected off the user as the user approaches the lavatory system  10  and received at the sensor  370  to detect the user&#39;s approach. If a line-of-sight sensor is used, it is contemplated that a portion of the housing  40  may be made of a translucent material, allowing the emitted sensor signal to pass through. Optionally, a lens may be inserted in the opening  371  to allow the emitted signal to pass and to prevent water, soap, dirt, or other contaminants from entering the opening. According to another embodiment, the sensor  370  may emit a signal capable of passing through the housing  40 . For example, a magnetic field may be generated and a disturbance in the field due to the presence of a user may be detected. 
     Each approach sensor  370  generates a feedback signal  372  to the control circuit  302 . The control circuit  302  may use the approach signal  372 , for example, to bring the lavatory system  10  out of a power-saving state or may prepare the lavatory system  10  for use. In the power saving state, a portion of the control circuit  302  may be de-energized. When the approach signal  372  is detected, the lavatory system  10  may energize the entire control circuit  302  in anticipation of use. Similarly, the control circuit  302  may energize a heater, if present, to begin warming air for delivery to a user. According to yet another example, the visual indicators  305  on the fixture  100  may be energized in response to receiving the approach signal  372 . Still other actions may be taken in response to the approach signal  372  at the control circuit  302  that will speed the user&#39;s hand washing experience. 
     According to another aspect of the invention, the lavatory system  10  is configurable using the sensors  301  in the fixture  100 . Previously, configuration of a lavatory system  10  would be performed, for example, via dip switches, a rotary switch, or the like located within or near the enclosure for the control circuit  302  and contained under the deck  12  and within the housing  40  of the lavatory system  10 . Changing operation such as the motor speed for the fan  210 , volume of soap dispensed, duration of water flow, and the like required removing the housing  40  and accessing the switches beneath the deck  12 . The present lavatory system  10  provides for configuration of the lavatory system  10  via the sensors  301  above the deck without removing the housing  40 . 
     A user may enter a configuration mode for the lavatory system  10  by inserting the user&#39;s hands under the sensors  301  in a predefined sequence. The sequence is selected to avoid accidental entry of the configuration mode during normal operation of the lavatory system  10 . For example, the sequence may require placing the right hand under a first sensor and a left hand under a second sensor where the right hand is inserted ahead of the left hand by less than a second. Both hands are then held under the sensors for at least ten seconds. According to another example, the sequence may require activating each sensor  301  in sequence from left-to-right or right-to-left multiple times in succession and subsequently holding a hand under one of the sensor  301  for a predefined time. Still other sequences may be used without deviating from the scope of the invention. Once the lavatory system  10  has entered configuration mode, each of the visual indicators  305  may provide an indication to the user of the configuration mode. The indicators  305  may, for example, turn to a unique color designating configuration mode. 
     The user then continues to configure the lavatory system  10  by further passing the user&#39;s hands under different sensors  301 . The user may first select which system to configure, that is whether the user wishes to configure the soap dispensing system, the water dispensing system, or the air dispensing system. A particular system may be selected by inserting the user&#39;s hands under a sensor  301  proximate to the respective outlet. For example, to configure the water dispensing system, the user may insert a hand under a sensor  301  proximate the water outlet  180  and to configure the air dispensing system, the user may insert a hand under a sensor  301  proximate the air outlet  200 . The visual indicator proximate the selected system may remain the color identifying configuration mode and begin to flash to indicate that the particular system has been selected. Optionally, the lavatory system  10  may contain a predefined number of parameters that are configurable via the sensors  301  and the user may increment or decrement through each parameter by inserting a hand under one of the sensors  301 . Identification of the parameter may occur by briefly activating the device to be configured or by flashing a parameter number on the visual indicators. 
     Once a system or a particular parameter has been selected, the user again inserts a hand under one of the sensors  301 . It is contemplated that a first sensor  301  may be utilized to choose a parameter for configuration and a second sensor  301  may be utilized to change the setting of the parameter. The parameter preferably has a predefined set of settings. For example, the motor for the fan may have a low, medium, and high speed setting. Each time a user inserts a hand under the second sensor  301  the setting of the parameter increments or decrements to the next setting. The lavatory system  10  may briefly activate the motor so that the user may observe the air flow resulting from the selected motor speed and determine which setting is desired. 
     Now referring to  FIGS.  44 - 46   , a lavatory system  1010  is shown including a multi-function fixture  1000  and a soap refill system  1500 . In the representative embodiment of the invention the multi-function fixture  1000  is similar to the multi-function fixture  100  previously described in the present invention. However, it is also contemplated that the multi-function fixture  1000  may be similar to the multi-function fixtures 500 shown and described U.S. Pat. No. 10,697,160 and U.S. Publication No. 2020/0046172. Further, the representative embodiment of the invention illustrates the use of a single multi-function fixture  1100  and a single soap refill system  1500 , other embodiments of the invention may include multiple multi-function fixtures  1100  with a single soap refill system  1500  or multiple multi-function fixtures  110  with multiple soap refill systems  1500 . 
     The lavatory system  1010  includes a deck  1012  that is configured to be mounted to a wall, preferably via wall mounts (not shown). The deck  1012  includes an upper surface  1014  and an outer periphery  1016  extending downward from the upper surface  1014  and around the deck  1012 . A basin  1020  is locate within the deck  1012 . According to one embodiment of the invention, the deck  1012  and the basin  1020  may integrally formed as a single unit. Alternatively, the basin  1020  may be mounted to the deck  1012 . It is further contemplated that the lavatory system  1010  may be free-standing, supported by the floor rather than being wall mounted. 
     The basin  1020  is a recessed are below the upper surface  1014  of the deck  1012  and is configured to receive products dispensed into the lavatory system  1010 . According to the illustrated embodiment, the basin  1020  includes a first side  1022  and a second side  1024  opposite the first side  1022 . Each of the first and second sides  1022 ,  1024  extend generally orthogonal to and away from the wall on which the lavatory system  1010  is mounted. The basin  1020  also includes a third side  1026  extending downward from an upper edge which joins the upper surface  1014  of the deck  1012  along the rear of the basin and further extends between the first side  1022  and the second side  1024 . The third side  1026  extends downward and the lower end of the third side  1026  forms, in part, a drain channel  1062  in the bottom of the basin  1020 . The basin  1020  further includes a fourth side  1028  extending downward from an upper edge which joins the upper surface  1014  of the deck  1012  along the front of the basin  1020  and also extends between the first side  1022  and the second side  1024 . The fourth side  1028  of the basin  1020  is sloped inward and downward from the front edge of the basin to a front edge of the drain channel  1062 . Although the basin  1020  is described in detail with respect to the illustrated embodiment, it is understood that the basin  1020  may take various shapes as would be understood to one skilled in the art without deviating from the scope of the invention. 
     The lavatory system  1010  includes a housing  1040  located below the deck  1012  and extending around the lower portion of the lavatory system  1010 . According to the illustrated embodiment, the housing  1040  includes a first side  1042  and a second side  1044  opposite the first side  1042 . A rear edge of each of the first side  1042  and the second side  1044  abuts the wall to which the lavatory system  1010  is mounted. Each of the first side  1042  and the second side  1044  extend forward, generally orthogonal to the wall. A front surface  1046  of the housing extends downward and to the rear from a lower surface  1015  of the deck  1012 . The front surface  1046  extends the height of each of the first and second sides  1042 ,  1044 . According to one embodiment of the invention, each of the first side  1042 , second side  1044 , and front surface  1046  extend to the floor. According to another embodiment of the invention, the each of the first side  1042 , second side  1044 , and front surface  1046  extend to some height above the floor. The front surface  46  is sloped to the rear from where it abuts the lower surface  1015  of the deck  1012 . It is contemplated that the housing  1040  may include a bottom surface (not shown) if the housing does not extend to the floor. Optionally, the housing may be open on the bottom as defined by the periphery of the first side  1042 , second side  1044 , front surface  1046  and wall to which the lavatory system  1010  is mounted. The housing  1040  encloses the components of the lavatory system  1010  located below the deck to provide a measure of protection to the components and to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance to the lavatory system  1010 . Although the housing  1040  is described in detail with respect to the illustrated embodiment, it is understood that the housing  1040  may take various shapes as would be understood to one skilled in the art without deviating from the scope of the invention. 
     Referring now to the multi-function fixture  1100 , the multi-function fixture  1100  is located at a hand washing station for the lavatory system  1010 . While the representative embodiment shows a single washing station and single multi-function fixture  1100 , other embodiments of the invention may include multiple washing stations and multiple associated multi-function fixtures  1100 . The width of the lavatory system will vary according to the number of wash stations present. 
     As shown, the first end  1112  of each leg  1110  of the multi-function fixture  1100  is configured to be mounted to the deck  1012 . An opening (not shown) extends through the mounting surface  1113  of the deck  1012  and is in communication with a passage (not shown) within the leg  1110 . A base  1130  is received within the opening of the leg  1110  and secures the fixture  1100  to the deck  1012 . The base  1130  also include a passage (not shown) extending therethrough and being in fluid communication with the passage of the leg  1110 . The base  1130  extends from a first end (not shown) with the leg  1110  of the fixture  1100  to a second end  1134  inserted into the opening of the deck  1012  and extending below the deck  1012 . To secure the fixture  1100  to the deck  1012 , the base  1130  is affixed to each leg  1110  and inserted through the opening in the deck  1012 . A nut  1135  is threaded onto the base  1130  from below the deck  1012  to secure the fixture  1100  to the deck  1012 . 
     The fixture  1100  includes an extension section  1140  that includes multiple outlets for dispensing product over the basin  1020  of the lavatory system  1010 . In the representative embodiment of the invention, a first outlet is operable to dispense soap, a second outlet is operable to dispenser water, and a third outlet may be included and be operable to dispense air. The outlets are spaced apart along the extension section  1140  such that a user&#39;s hands may move along the extension section  1140  between the outlets during the washing process. 
     The extension section  1140  may also include indicators to a user identifying the location of each outlet. Similar to connecting section  140  of fixture  100 , the extension section  1140  may include openings along the front edge of the extension section  1140  and light-emitting diodes (LED)  1705  behind each opening. It is contemplated that each opening may have a lens or be a translucent material rather than an opening to prevent soap, water, dirt, or other contaminants from entering the fixture  1100 . The LED  1705  may emit different colors according to operation or flash to direct a user&#39;s attention to the location. Optionally, larger displays utilizing, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) may provide a graphical or other visual indication to the user of the purpose of each outlet located by the indicator. 
     The system for dispensing soap includes a soap system  2000  having a soap container  2002 , a pump  2004 , and tubing to connect the pump  2004  to the soap outlet. In embodiments of the invention including multiple multi-function fixtures  1100 , the soap container  2002  may be coupled to either a single soap pump  2004  connected to each soap outlet of the multiple multi-function fixtures  1100  or the soap container  2002  may be coupled to multiple soap pumps  2004  located at each multiple multi-function fixture  1100 . As shown in  FIGS.  44 - 45   , the soap system  2000  is mounted to the deck/countertop  1012  of the lavatory system  1010 . A refill port  2006  of the soap system  2000  extends from the upper surface  1014  of the deck  1012  to the soap container  2002 , which may be located below the deck  1012 . The soap system  2000  includes a mounting component  2008  disposed within an opening (not shown) formed in the deck  1012  in order to extend from the upper surface  1014  of the deck  1012  to the lower surface  1015  of the deck  1012 . The mounting component  2008  includes a main body  2010 , a surface place  2012 , a threaded portion  2014 , and a nut  2016 . The surface plate  2012  is located at a first end of the main body  2010  and configured to be disposed on the upper surface  1014  of the deck  1012 . Meanwhile, the threaded portion  2014  of the main body  2010  is disposed at the second end of the main body  2010 . The threaded portion  2014  is configured to receive the nut  2016  in order to secure the mounting component  2008  to the deck  1012 . That is, the deck  1012  is disposed between the surface plate  2012  and the nut  2016 . The mounting component  2008  includes an opening (not shown) formed therethrough and configured to receive the refill port  2016  in order to extend through the mounting component  2008  and from the deck  1012  to the soap container  2002 . As shown in  FIG.  46   , a cap  2032  may be disposed within the opening of the mounting bracket  2018  adjacent the surface plate  2012  in order to cover the refill port  2006 . When the cap  2032  is removed, the refill port  2006  is exposed and the soap container  2002  may be refilled. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  46 - 61   , the soap system  2000 ,  3000 ,  4000 ,  5000  includes a mounting bracket  2018 ,  3018 ,  4018 ,  5018  disposed below the deck  1012  and configured to mount the soap container  2002 ,  3002 ,  4002 ,  5002  below the deck  1012 . Referring first to  FIGS.  46 - 49   , a representative embodiment of the mounting bracket  2018  is shown according to a first embodiment of the invention. As shown, the mounting bracket  2018  includes a top plate  2020 , a first side plate  2022 , a second side plate  2024 , and a bottom plate  2025 . In the representative embodiment of the invention, the top plate  2020  of the mounting bracket  2018  is disposed between the nut  2016  and the deck  1012 . The top plate  2020  of the mounting bracket  2018  may include an opening (not shown) formed therein to allow the mounting component  2008  and refill port  2006  to pass through the opening of the top plate  2020 . 
     The soap system  2000  may also include at least one spacer element  2030  disposed between the top plate  2020  of the mounting bracket  2018  and the deck  1012 . The spacer element  2030  is configured to surround the main body  2010  of the mounting component  2008  and increase the distance between the deck  1012  and the top plate  2020  of the mounting component  2008 . As shown in  FIG.  49   , the increase of the distance between the deck  1012  and the top plate  2020  of the mounting component  2008  allows additional room for the base  1130  of the fixture  1100  disposed directly adjacent the soap system  2000 . 
     Referring again to the mounting plate  2018 , the first and second side plates  2022 ,  2024  of the mounting plate  2018  are configured to extend downward from the top plate  2020  and along the sides  2026 ,  2028  of the soap container  2002 . The bottom plate  2025  extends between the side plates  2022 ,  2024  at the bottom edge. In the representative embodiment of the invention, the bottom plate  2025  is coupled to the side plates  2022 ,  2024  via fasteners  2027  disposed at the bottom edges of the side plates  2022 ,  2024 . The container  2002  then is able to sit on the bottom plate  2025 . In turn, the side plates  2022 ,  2024  and bottom plate  2025  of mounting plate  2008  act as a cradle to provide additional support for the soap container  2002  underneath the deck  1012 . 
     In order to further accommodate the base  1130  of the adjacent fixture  1100 , at least one of the top plate  2020  and the side plate  2024  adjacent the base  1130  may include notches  2034 ,  2036  formed therein. As shown in  FIGS.  46  and  48   , the notch  2034  formed the top plate  2020  extends from the edge of the top plate  2020  adjacent the second side plate  2024  and from the front edge of the top plate  2020 . Similarly, the notch  2036  formed in the side plate  2024  extends from the top edge of the side plate  2024  adjacent the top plate  2020  and from the front edge of the side plate  2024 . As a result of the notches  2034 ,  2036 , the mounting bracket  2018  is configured to not interfere with the base  1130  of the fixture  1100  adjacent the soap system  2000 . 
       FIGS.  46 - 49    further illustrate a controller  2038  mounted to the side plate  2024  of the mounting bracket  2018 . In other embodiments of the invention, the controller  2038  may be mounted to any plate of the mounting bracket  2018  or in any other location below the deck  1012 . The controller  2038  is configured to control a display element  2040  of the soap system  2000 . The display element  2040  may include a number of LEDs disposed with the mounting component  2008  and below a translucent material in order to communicate messaging to a user. For example, the display element  2040  may be configure to illuminate to indicate to a user that the soap container  2002  below the deck  1012  needs to be refilled. 
     Next,  FIGS.  50 - 53    illustrates a representative embodiment of the mounting bracket  3018  according to a second embodiment of the invention. As shown, the mounting bracket  3018  includes a top plate  2020 , a side plate  3022  that follow the contour of the soap container  3002 , and a bottom plate  3025 . As shown, the top plate  3020  of the mounting bracket  3018  is disposed between the nut  3016  and the deck  1012 . The top plate  3020  of the mounting bracket  3018  may include an opening (not shown) formed therein to allow the mounting component  3008  and refill port  3006  to pass through the opening of the top plate  3020 . 
     The soap system  3000  may also include at least one spacer element  3030  disposed between the top plate  3020  of the mounting bracket  3018  and the deck  1012 . The spacer element  3030  is configured to increase the distance between the deck  1012  and the top plate  3020  of the mounting component  3008 . In this embodiment of the invention, the spacer element  3030  may be in the form of extensions  3030  extending upward from top plate  3020  at the edges of the top plate  3020 . As shown in  FIG.  53   , the increase of the distance between the deck  1012  and the top plate  3020  of the mounting component  3008  allows additional room for the base  1130  of the fixture  1100  disposed directly adjacent the soap system  3000 . 
     As stated above, the mounting plate  3018  includes a side plate  3022 . As shown in  FIGS.  50 - 52   , the side plate  3022  extends downward from the top plate  3020  at a rear edge thereof to a rear edge of the bottom plate  3025 . In the representative embodiment of the invention, the side plate  3022  is contoured to adjust to the soap container  3002 . For instance, the side plate  3022  includes a first/upper portion  3021  extending from the rear edge of the top plate  3020  to a location adjacent a top surface  3031  of the soap container  3002 . Next, the a second/intermediate portion  3023  of the side plate  3022  extends horizontally from the bottom edge of the first portion  3021  of the side plate  3022  in order to follow the contour of the top surface  3031  of the soap container  3002 . The second portion  3023  of the side plate  3022  extends toward a rear surface  3029  of the soap container. Next, a third/lower portion  3024  of the side plate  3022  extends downward from the rear edge of the second portion  3023  of the side plate  3022  in order to be oriented along the rear surface  3029  of the soap container  3002 . The bottom plate  3025  then extends from the bottom edge of the third portion  3024  of the side plate  3022  for a distance. As a result, the container  3002  is able to sit on the bottom plate  3025 . In turn, the side plates  3022  and bottom plate  3025  of mounting plate  3008  act as a cradle to provide additional support for the soap container  3002  underneath the deck  1012 . 
       FIGS.  50 - 53    further illustrate a controller  3038  mounted to the side plate  3022  of the mounting bracket  3018 . While the controller  3038  is shown mounted to the first portion  3021  of the side plate  3022 , the controller  3038  may be mounted to any location of the side plate  3022  in varying embodiments of the invention. In yet other embodiments of the invention, the controller  3038  may be mounted to any plate of the mounting bracket  3018  or in any other location below the deck  1012 . The controller  3038  is configured to control a display element  3040  of the soap system  3000 . The display element  3040  may include a number of LEDs disposed with the mounting component  3008  and below a translucent material in order to communicate messaging to a user. For example, the display element  3040  may be configure to illuminate to indicate to a user that the soap container  3002  below the deck  1012  needs to be refilled. 
     Referring next to  FIGS.  54 - 57   , a representative embodiment of the mounting bracket  4018  is shown according to a third embodiment of the invention. The mounting bracket  4018  includes a top plate  4020 , a side plate  4022  that follow the contour of the soap container  4002 , and a bottom plate  4025 . As shown, the top plate  4020  of the mounting bracket  4018  is disposed between the nut  4016  and the deck  1012 . The top plate  4020  of the mounting bracket  4018  may include an opening (not shown) formed therein to allow the mounting component  4008  and refill port  4006  to pass through the opening of the top plate  4020 . 
     The soap system  4000  may also include at least one spacer element  4030  disposed between the top plate  4020  of the mounting bracket  4018  and the deck  1012 . The spacer element  4030  is configured to increase the distance between the deck  1012  and the top plate  4020  of the mounting component  4008 . In this embodiment of the invention, the spacer element  4030  may be in the form of extensions  4030  extending upward from top plate  4020  at the edges of the top plate  4020 . As shown in  FIG.  57   , the increase of the distance between the deck  1012  and the top plate  4020  of the mounting component  4008  allows additional room for the base  1130  of the fixture  1100  disposed directly adjacent the soap system  4000 . 
     As stated above, the mounting plate  4018  includes a side plate  4022 . As shown in  FIGS.  54 - 56   , the side plate  4022  extends downward from a rear edge of the top plate  4020  to a rear edge of the bottom plate  4025 . In order to contour with the soap container  4002 , the side plate  4022  may include a first/upper portion  4021  that extends from the rear edge of the top plate  4020  to a location adjacent a top surface  4031  of the soap container  4002 . Next, a second/intermediate portion  4023  of the side plate  4022  extends horizontally from the bottom edge of the first portion  4021  of the side plate  4022  in order to follow the contour of the top surface  4031  of the soap container  4002 . The second/intermediate portion  4023  of the side plate  4022  extends toward a rear surface  4029  of the soap container  4002 , while a third/lower portion  4024  of the side plate  4022  extends downward from the rear edge of the second portion  4023  of the side plate  4022  in order to be oriented along the rear surface  4029  of the soap container  4002 . The bottom plate  4025  then extends from the bottom edge of the third portion  4024  of the side plate  4022  for a distance. As a result, the soap container  4002  is able to sit on the bottom plate  4025 . In turn, the side plate  4022  and bottom plate  4025  of mounting plate  4008  act as a cradle to provide additional support for the soap container  4002  underneath the deck  1012 . 
     In the representative embodiment of the invention shown in  FIGS.  54 - 57   , the mounting plate  4008  may also include additional side extensions  4042 ,  4044 . Side extension  4042  extends perpendicular from the second portion  4024  of the side plate  4022  at a first edge thereof, while side extension  4044  extends perpendicular from the second portion  4024  of the side plate  4022  at a second edge thereof. In turn, side extension  4042  is oriented along a first side  4026  of the soap container  4002  and side extension  4044  is oriented along a second side  4028  of the soap container  4002 . In addition, a strap  4021  may extend from a location at or adjacent the first edge of the side plate  4022 , around the soap container  4002 , and to a location at or adjacent the second edge of the side plate  4022  in order to surround the soap container  4002  in conjunction with the side plate  4022  and secure the soap container  4002  within the cradle of the bracket  4018 . More specifically, the strap  4021  may extend from side extension  4042  to side extension  4044  and around the soap container  4002  to further secure the soap container  4002  within the cradle of the bracket  4018 . As shown, the side extensions  4042 ,  4044  may include openings formed therein to allow the strap  4021  to extend through the openings and attach itself to the side extensions  4042 ,  4044 . As shown in  FIG.  56   , the strap  4021  may include an attachment element  4050  to close the strap  4021  around the soap container  4002 . In varying embodiments of the invention, the strap  4021  may be a variety of materials and the attachment element  4050  may be a variety of clasps or attachment methods, such as VELCRO®. 
       FIGS.  55 - 57    further illustrate a controller  4038  mounted to the side extension  4044  of the side plate  4024  of the mounting bracket  4018 . In other embodiments of the invention, the controller  4038  may be mounted to any portion of the side plate  4024 , any other plate of the mounting bracket  4018 , or in any other location below the deck  1012 . The controller  4038  is configured to control a display element  4040  of the soap system  4000 . The display element  4040  may include a number of LEDs disposed with the mounting component  4008  and below a translucent material in order to communicate messaging to a user. For example, the display element  4040  may be configure to illuminate to indicate to a user that the soap container  4002  below the deck  1012  needs to be refilled. 
     Next,  FIGS.  58 - 61    illustrate a representative embodiment of the mounting bracket  5018  according to a fourth embodiment of the invention. The mounting bracket  5018  includes a top plate  5020 , a side plate  5022  that follow the contour of the soap container  5002 , and a bottom plate  5025 . As shown, the top plate  5020  of the mounting bracket  5018  is disposed between the nut  5016  and the deck  1012 . The top plate  5020  of the mounting bracket  5018  may include an opening (not shown) formed therein to allow the mounting component  5008  and refill port  5006  to pass through the opening of the top plate  5020 . 
     The soap system  5000  may also include at least one spacer element  5030  disposed between the top plate  5020  of the mounting bracket  5018  and the deck  1012 . The spacer element  5030  is configured to surround either entirely or partially the main body  5010  of the mounting component  5008  and increase the distance between the deck  1012  and the top plate  5020  of the mounting component  5008 . As shown in  FIG.  60   , the increase of the distance between the deck  1012  and the top plate  5020  of the mounting component  5008  allows additional room for the base  1130  of the fixture  1100  disposed directly adjacent the soap system  5000 . 
     As stated above, the mounting plate  5018  includes a side plate  5022  that follows the contour of the soap container  5002 . As shown in  FIGS.  58 - 60   , the side plate  5022  extends downward from a rear edge of the top plate  5020  to a rear edge of the bottom plate  5025 . A first/upper portion  5021  of the side plate  5022  extends from the rear edge of the top plate  5020  to a location adjacent a top surface  5031  of the soap container  5002 . Next, a second/intermediate portion  5023  of the side plate  5022  extends horizontally from the bottom edge of the first portion  5021  of the side plate  4022  in order to follow the contour of the top surface  5031  of the soap container  5002 . The second portion  5023  of the side plate  5022  extends toward a rear surface  5029  of the soap container  5002 . Next, a third/lower portion  5024  of the side plate  5022  extends downward from the rear edge of the second portion  5023  of the side plate  5022  in order to be oriented along the rear surface  5029  of the soap container  5002 . The bottom plate  5025  then extends from a bottom edge of the third portion  5024  of the side plate  5022  for a distance. As a result, the soap container  5002  is able to sit on the bottom plate  5025 . In turn, the side plate  5022  and bottom plate  5025  of mounting plate  5008  act as a cradle to provide additional support for the soap container  5002  underneath the deck  1012 . 
     In the representative embodiment of the invention shown in  FIGS.  58 - 61   , the mounting plate  5008  may also include additional side extensions  5042 ,  5044  to provide additional support for the soap container  5002 . The first side extension  5042  extends perpendicular from a first edge of the second portion  5024  of the side plate  5022  and the second side extension  5044  extends perpendicular from a second edge of the second portion  5024  of the side plate  5022 . In turn, side extension  5042  is oriented along a first side  5026  of the soap container  5002  and side extension  5044  is oriented along a second side  5028  of the soap container  5002 . In addition, a strap  5021  may extend from a location at or adjacent the first edge of the side plate  5022 , around the soap container  5002 , and to a location at or adjacent the second edge of the side plate  5022  in order to secure the soap container  5002  within the cradle of the bracket  5018 . As shown in  FIG.  58   , openings may be formed in the side plate  5022  along the first and second edges thereof in order to allow the strap  5021  to extend through the opening and attach itself to the side plate  5022 . Further yet, the strap  5021  may include an attachment element  5050  to close the strap  5021  around the soap container  4002 . In varying embodiments of the invention, the strap  5021  may be a variety of materials and the attachment element  5050  may be a variety of clasps or attachment methods, such as VELCRO®. 
       FIGS.  58 - 61    further illustrate a controller  5038  mounted to the side extension  5044  of the side plate  5022  of the mounting bracket  5018 . In other embodiments of the invention, the controller  5038  may be mounted at any location on the side plate  5022 , to any plate of the mounting bracket  5018 , or in any other location below the deck  1012 . The controller  5038  is configured to control a display element  5040  of the soap system  5000 . The display element  5040  may include a number of LEDs disposed with the mounting component  5008  and below a translucent material in order to communicate messaging to a user. For example, the display element  5040  may illuminate to indicate to a user that the soap container  5002  below the deck  1012  needs to be refilled. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  62   , a block diagram is shown illustrating the combination of the fixture  1100 , the soap system  2000 , an air system, and a water system. The soap container  2002  and soap pump  2004  shown in  FIG.  49    are represented in the block diagram of  FIG.  58   . The soap container  2002  may include a level detection switch  1712  that generates a level detection signal  1714  provided to the control circuit  1702 , corresponding to the amount of soap remaining in the soap container  2002 . While  FIG.  62    illustrates the control circuit  1702  being the same control circuit that controls the fixture  1100 , the control circuit  1702  includes the separate controller  2038  previously shown and discussed. 
     The pump  2004  is activated by one or more sensors  1701  located in the fixture  1100  detecting the presence of a user&#39;s hands proximate the soap outlet. The pump  2004  draws soap from the reservoir  2002  and into a tube fluidically coupling the pump  2004  and the soap outlet. The tube  1162  is run inside the leg  1120  and into the extension section  1140  of the fixture  1100 . The soap is discharged from the soap outlet onto a user&#39;s hands. 
     The system for dispensing water includes one or more inlet lines  1722 , connected to a water supply, one or more valves  1720 , and one or more outlet lines  1724  to supply water to the water outlet on the extension section  1140 . The inlet line  1722  may be connected to a cold water supply, a hot water supply, or a mixed water supply including a combination of hot and cold water. Since it is desirable to provide water to the user at a comfortable temperate, a mixing valve may be provided in advance of the inlet line  1722  that combines cold and hot water proportionally to supply water at a desired temperature. Optionally, the valve  1720  may be a mixing valve which includes a first inlet line  1722  from the cold water supply and a second inlet line  1722  from a hot water supply. A signal  1726  from the control circuit  1702  may control the valve  1720  not only in an on/off manner, but also in a proportional manner to mix the cold and hot water to supply water at a desired temperature. The outlet line  1724  from the valve  1720  is connected to the water outlet. 
     The system for dispensing air includes a fan  1610  located below the deck  1012  and operable to deliver air to the air outlet. According to one embodiment of the invention, the fan  1610  includes a centrifugal fan drive by a motor. The motor may be operated at variable speeds to adjust the airflow rate supplied by the fan  1610 . The fan  1610  draws air in through an air inlet located within the housing  1040  under the deck  1012 . A filter  1754  may be provided at the inlet to capture contaminants present in the air prior to entering the air inlet for the fan  1610 . An air duct connects an outlet of the fan  1610  to the cold-water base  1130 , which in turn connects to a passage within the leg  1110  of the fixture  1100 . 
     Control signals  1752  pass between the fan  1610  and a control circuit  1702 . The control signals  1752  may include a start command, a stop command, a speed command, or any combination thereof to control operation of the fan  1610 . In addition, feedback signals corresponding to operation of the fan  1610  or the condition of the filter may be provided from the fan  1610  to the control circuit  1702 . Although not shown, it is contemplated that the system for dispensing air may include a heater located along the air flow path to increase the temperature of the air prior to delivering the air to the user&#39;s hands. 
     In operation, a control system  1700  is provided that manages operation of the fixture  1100  and soap system  2000  of the lavatory system  1010 . Referring to  FIG.  62   , the control system  1700  includes a control circuit  1702  mounted to the lavatory system  1010 . According to one embodiment of the invention, the control circuit  1702  is provided on a circuit board mounted in an enclosure below the deck  1012  and within the housing  1040  of the lavatory system  1010  to protect the control circuit  1702  from being splashed by water. Optionally, the control circuit  1702  may be potted to provide further protection from moisture in a lavatory. The control circuit  1702  includes memory  1706  configured to store operating parameters for the fixture  1100  and the soap system  2000  and instruction for executing on a processor  1704  to control operation of the fixture  1100  and the soap system  2000 . The memory  1706  may be volatile, non-volatile, or a combination thereof and may be one or more devices. The processor  1704  is operable to execute the instructions stored in memory  1706  to achieve a desired operation of the lavatory system  1010 . It is contemplated that the processor  1704  may be one or more devices. The control circuit  1702  may also include other analog and/or digital devices to receive feedback signals from sensors, transmit control signals to actuators, and manage other such control related functions as would be understood in the art. It is further contemplated that the control circuit  1702  may be located entirely on a single circuit board and located within a single enclosure or, optionally, portions of the control circuit  1702  may be distributed about the lavatory system  1010  without deviating from the scope of the invention (e.g., controller  2038 ,  3038 ,  4038 ,  5038 ). 
     The control circuit  1702  receives feedback signals  1703  from sensors  1701  in the fixture  1100  indicating a user&#39;s hands are present for washing and/or drying proximate the fixture  1100 . As shown in  FIG.  62   , four sensors  1701  are provided in the fixture  1100  to control the soap, water, and air delivery from the fixture  1100 . In other embodiments of the invention, it is contemplated that three sensors  1701  may be provided where a single sensor  1701  is located proximate to each outlet. In yet other embodiments, more than four sensors  1701  may be provided. It is contemplated that each sensor  1701  is located within the extension section  1140  of the fixture  1100  and above the lower wall of the extension section  1140 . 
     Having more sensors  1701  than outlets allows the control circuit  1702  to determine information about the location and/or direction of approach for a user&#39;s hands in addition to just being located proximate to an outlet. As shown in the representative embodiment of the invention, two inner sensors  1701  may be located on either side of the water outlet. As a user&#39;s hands approach the water outlet after receiving soap, the inner sensor  1701  located on the same side of the water outlet as the soap outlet is activated first. If a user&#39;s hands are approaching the water outlet from the hand dryer side of the fixture  1100 , the other inner sensor  1701  is activated first. When the user&#39;s hands area located under the water outlet, both inner sensors  1701  are arranged to detect the hands. The control circuit  1702  may generate different control signals responsive to the sequence in which the inner sensors  1701  are activated. 
     Looking first at the control of the soap system, at least one sensor  1701  is located near the soap outlet to detect a user&#39;s hands located below the outlet. When a user&#39;s hands are located beneath the soap outlet, the sensor  1701  generates a feedback signal  1703  to the control circuit  1702  indicating their presence. In response to receiving the feedback signal  1703 , the control circuit  1702  may flash or change the color of the LED  1705  via signal  1707  for the soap outlet to provide an indication to the user that the hands were detected by the soap outlet. The control circuit  1702  may also generate a control signal  1718  to the soap pump  2004  so that soap is dispensed. The soap pump  2004  may be energized for a predefined period of time or execute one or more fixed pumping cycles, drawing soap from the soap container  2002  and up through the soap tube to the soap nozzle where it is dispensed onto the user&#39;s hands. The sensor  1701  proximate the soap outlet may be configured to detect a user&#39;s hands for only a short distance below the fixture  1100 . For example, the user&#39;s hand may need to be within three inches or within two inches of the sensor  1701  to detect their presence. This detection distance is preferably configurable within the sensor  1701  and may be set less than the detection distance of the water outlet  580  as will be discussed in more detail below. 
     The controller  1702  may also be configured to interlock the soap outlet based on other activity at the fixture  1100 . For example, if the air dryer is active, it may be desirable to prevent soap from being dispensed such that it is not blown around the basin  1020 . In addition, it may be desirable to require a user to remove their hands prior to dispensing additional soap. This prevents continued dispensing of soap if the user leaves their hands under the soap outlet for an extended period of time or if, for example, a foreign object falls in the basin  1020  under the fixture  1100  proximate the soap outlet. 
     A level detection sensor  1712 , such as a float switch, may be provided within the soap container  2002 . The level detection sensor  1712  generates a feedback signal  1714  to the control circuit  1702  when the soap level is low and requires filling. In the lavatory system  1010  including the soap system  2000 , the control circuit  1702  may activate the display element  2040  of the soap system  2000  in a manner indicating the soap level is low. For example, the control circuit  1702  may flash the display element  2040  or turn the color of the display element  2040  to red indicating that the level is low. It contemplated that the LED  1705  associated with the soap outlet of the fixture  1100  may be deactivated by the control circuit  1702  in such instances so that the indication of soap level is only shown by the display element  2040 . Alternatively, the LED  1705  associate with the soap outlet of the fixture  110  may work in conjunction with the display element  2040 . 
     Turning next to control of the water system, at least one sensor  1701  is located near the water outlet to detect a user&#39;s hands located below the outlet. When a user&#39;s hands are located beneath the water outlet, the sensor  1701  generates a feedback signal  1703  to the control circuit  1702  indicating their presence. In response to receiving the feedback signal  1703 , the control circuit  1702  may flash or change the color of the LED  1705  for the water outlet to provide an indication to the user that the hands were detected by the water outlet  580 . The control circuit  1702  may also generate a control signal  1726  to the water valve  1720 , causing it to activate such that water is dispensed. 
     The sensor  1701  proximate the water outlet may be configured to detect a user&#39;s hands below the fixture  1100  for a distance equal to the height of the fixture  1100  above the basin  1020 . As a result, the user&#39;s hands will be detected at any height between the water outlet and the basin  1020 . This detection distance is preferably configurable and may be set greater than the detection distance of the soap outlet. Requiring the user to position their hands closer to the soap outlet to receive soap than is required to dispense water will help prevent inadvertent dispensing of soap. For example, as a user rinses the soap from their hands under the water outlet, the hand, arm, or a portion thereof may move under the soap outlet. However, a user typically positions their hands at a distance below the water outlet to avoid water splashing or spraying from their hands or from contacting the fixture  1100  while rinsing their hands. The distance users typically position their hands is greater than the distance at which the sensor  1701  proximate the soap outlet is set for detection. As a result, even if a portion of the user&#39;s hands or arm moves under the sensor  1701  for the soap outlet while using the water outlet, additional soap is not dispensed. 
     The control circuit  1702  may also be configured to provide interlocks in dispensing water from the fixture  1100 . For example, if the air dryer is active, it may be desirable to prevent water from being dispensed such that it is not blown around the basin  1020 . Further, it may be desirable to require a user to remove their hands from beneath the water outlet and stop dispensing water before dispensing air. A maximum duration may also be configured for which the water outlet may dispense water without requiring the user to remove and reinsert their hands beneath the water outlet. This prevents continued dispensing of water if the user leaves their hands under the water outlet for an extended period of time or if, for example, a foreign object falls in the basin  1020  under the fixture  1100  proximate the water outlet. 
     Turning now to control of the air system, at least one sensor  1701  is located near the air outlet to detect a user&#39;s hands located below the air outlet. When a user&#39;s hands are located beneath the air outlet, the sensor  1701  generates a feedback signal  1703  to the control circuit  1702  indicating their presence. In response to receiving the feedback signal  1703 , the control circuit  1702  may flash or change the color of the LED  1705  for the air outlet to provide an indication to the user that the hands were detected by the air outlet. The control circuit  1702  may also generate a control signal  1752  to the fan  1610 , causing it to activate such that air is dispensed. The fan  1610  may be energized for a predefined time or may remain on while the user&#39;s hands are detected under the air outlet. 
     The sensor  1701  proximate the air outlet may be configured to detect a user&#39;s hand below the fixture  1100  for a distance equal to the height of the fixture  1100  above the basin  1020 . As a result, the user&#39;s hands will be detected at any height between the air outlet and the basin  1020 . This detection distance is preferably configurable and may be set greater than the detection distance of the soap outlet. The motor for the fan  1610  may be configured to operate at multiple speeds. One speed may be selected when the lavatory system  1010  is configured or reconfigured, and the motor will run at that speed each time the sensor  701  detects a user&#39;s hands beneath the air outlet. According to one aspect of the invention, the motor speed may be selected such that a user&#39;s hands are dried within a desired time duration. The selected speed may vary, for example, as a function of the size of the fixture  1100 , the volume of air delivered by the fixture  1100 , or whether a heater is present within the air flow. According to another aspect of the invention, the motor speed may be selected such that the motor and air flow generate noise at an acceptable level while the user&#39;s hands are located within the air stream. 
     The control circuit  1702  may further be configured to provide interlocks in dispensing air from the fixture  1100 . For example, if the air dryer is active, it may be desirable to prevent water from being dispensed such that it is not blown around the basin. Further, it may be desirable to require a user to remove their hands from beneath the air outlet and stop dispensing air prior to dispensing water. A maximum duration may also be configured for which the air outlet may dispense air without requiring the user to remove and reinsert their hands beneath the air outlet. This prevents continued dispensing of air if the user leaves their hands under the air outlet for an extended period of time or if, for example, a foreign object falls in the basin  1020  under the fixture  1100  proximate the air outlet. 
     As shown in  FIG.  62   , the lavatory system  1010  may include one or more approach sensors  1770 . Each approach sensor  1770  may be mounted on an inside surface of the housing  1040  and in line with one of the fixtures  1100 . The housing  1040  may include an opening  1771  through which the sensor may transmit a signal, such as a radio frequency (RF) or infrared signal. The signal is reflected off the user as the user approaches the lavatory system  1010  and fixture  1100  and received at the sensor  1770  to detect the user&#39;s approach. If a line-of-sight sensor is used, it is contemplated that a portion of the housing  1040  may be made of a translucent material, allowing the emitted sensor signal to pass through. Optionally, a lens may be inserted in the opening  1771  to allow the emitted signal to pass and to prevent water, soap, dirt, or other contaminants from entering the opening. Alternatively, the sensor  1770  may emit a signal capable of passing through the housing  1040 . For example, a magnetic field may be generated and a disturbance in the field due to the presence of a user may be detected. 
     Each approach sensor  1770  generates a feedback signal  1772  to the control circuit  1702 . For example, the control circuit  702  may use the approach signal  1772  to bring the lavatory system  1010  and fixture  1100  out of a power-saving state or may prepare the lavatory system  1010  and fixture  1100  for use. In the power saving state, a portion of the control circuit  1702  may be de-energized. When the approach signal  1772  is detected, the lavatory system  1010  and fixture  1100  may energize the entire control circuit  1702  in anticipation of use. Similarly, the control circuit  702  may energize a heater, if present, to begin warming air for delivery to a user. According to yet another example, the visual indicators  1705  on the fixture  1100  may be energized in response to receiving the approach signal  1772 . Still other actions may be taken in response to the approach signal  1772  at the control circuit  1702  that will speed the user&#39;s hand washing experience. 
     It is further contemplated that a user may enter a configuration mode for the lavatory system  1010  and fixture  1100  by inserting the user&#39;s hands under the sensors  1701  in a predefined sequence. The sequence is selected to avoid accidental entry of the configuration mode during normal operation of the lavatory system  1010  and fixture  1100 . For example, the sequence may require placing the right hand under a first sensor and a left hand under a second sensor where the right hand is inserted ahead of the left hand by less than a second. Both hands are then held under the sensors for at least ten seconds. According to another example, the sequence may require activating each sensor  1701  in sequence from left-to-right or right-to-left multiple times in succession and subsequently holding a hand under one of the sensors  1701  for a predefined time. Still other sequences may be used without deviating from the scope of the invention. Once the lavatory system  1010  and fixture  100  has entered configuration mode, each of the visual indicators  1705  may provide an indication to the user of the configuration mode. For example, the indicators  1705  may turn to a unique color designating configuration mode. 
     The user then continues to configure the lavatory system  1010  and fixture  1100  by further passing the user&#39;s hands under different sensors  1701 . The user may first select which system to configure, that is whether the user wishes to configure the soap dispensing system, the water dispensing system, or the air dispensing system. A particular system may be selected by inserting the user&#39;s hands under a sensor  1701  proximate to the respective outlet. For example, to configure the water dispensing system, the user may insert a hand under a sensor  1701  proximate the water outlet and to configure the air dispensing system, the user may insert a hand under a sensor  1701  proximate the air outlet. The visual indicator  1705  proximate the selected system may remain the color identifying configuration mode and begin to flash to indicate that the particular system has been selected. Optionally, the lavatory system  1010  may contain a predefined number of parameters that are configurable via the sensors  1701  and the user may increment or decrement through each parameter by inserting a hand under one of the sensors  1701 . Identification of the parameter may occur by briefly activating the device to be configured or by flashing a parameter number on the visual indicators. 
     Once a system or a particular parameter has been selected, the user again inserts a hand under one of the sensors  1701 . It is contemplated that a first sensor  701  may be utilized to choose a parameter for configuration and a second sensor  1701  may be utilized to change the setting of the parameter. The parameter preferably has a predefined set of settings. For example, the motor for the fan may have a low, medium, and high-speed setting. Each time a user inserts a hand under the second sensor  1701  the setting of the parameter increments or decrements to the next setting. The lavatory system  1010  and fixture  1100  may briefly activate the motor so that the user may observe the air flow resulting from the selected motor speed and determine which setting is desired. 
     Although the best mode contemplated by the inventors of carrying out the present invention is disclosed above, practice of the present invention is not limited thereto. It will be manifest that various additions, modifications and rearrangements of the features of the present invention may be made without deviating from the spirit and scope of the underlying inventive concept. 
     Moreover, the individual components need not be formed in the disclosed shapes, or assembled in the disclosed configuration, but could be provided in virtually any shape, and assembled in virtually any configuration. Furthermore, all the disclosed features of each disclosed embodiment can be combined with, or substituted for, the disclosed features of every other disclosed embodiment except where such features are mutually exclusive. 
     It is intended that the appended claims cover all such additions, modifications and rearrangements. Expedient embodiments of the present invention are differentiated by the appended claims.