Abstract:
A lavatory system includes a hand dryer with a first plenum above a basin and a second plenum incorporated within the basin. A display screen, which may be a touch-screen, can display operational data such as run time, energy consumed, water consumed, soap dispensed, soap remaining, etc. A noise-cancelling feature may actively and/or passively suppress noise from the hand dryer. Electrical energy spent by the hand dryer may also be re-captured with the use of a device within the air plenums that converts the kinetic energy of moving air into electric energy.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     The present application claims priority to and is a national stage entry of PCT/US12/58678 filed on Oct. 4, 2012, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to the field of lavatory systems and, more particularly, to touch-free hand dryers that use proximity sensors to commence the blowing of air. 
     In an effort to reduce the waste and frequently the mess associated with paper toweling in public washrooms such as those found in high traffic areas like schools, libraries, airports, train and bus terminals, shopping centers, theaters, and sports venues, wall-mounted electric hand dryers have become prevalent. More recently, proximity sensors have allowed for touch-free hand dryers that can be activated automatically when a user places his hands in a drying zone adjacent the hand dryer; typically, below and/or in front of the hand dryer. For many installations, the hand dryer is mounted on a wall opposite the wash basin and, quite frequently, one or two hand dryers will be provided for a bank (more than two) of wash basins. As a result, a user after cleaning his hands must walk some distance to the hand dryer. This frequently results in water and/or soap dripping onto the floor as the user walks from the wash basin to the hand dryer. As there are typically more wash basins than hand dryers, it is possible that water could pool on the floor during high use periods. The accumulated water can create a slippery and, consequently, potentially unsafe condition. Additionally, the hand dryer can blow water from the user&#39;s hands onto the floor during the drying process further adding to the amount of water that accumulates on the floor. Moreover, water and/or soap can accumulate on the countertop supporting the wash basin which can be unsightly, if not quickly addressed. Additionally, the accumulation of water and/or soap on the floor and/or countertop may lead to germ-infested areas thus posing additional health risks as well as creating discomfort for users that are particularly germ sensitive. 
     One proposed solution is described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/233,466, which is assigned to Bradley Fixtures Corporation, the assignee of this application and which is incorporated herein by reference. The aforementioned application describes a lavatory system in which a hand-washing station has a wash basin, a faucet, and an electric hand dryer. The integration of these components into a single wash station alleviates the need for a user to leave the wash station to access a hand dryer. That is, the hand dryer is adjacent the wash basin and (heated) air is blown into an area generally above the wash basin. Accordingly, a user can water and soap his hands in a conventional manner and then move his hands to the drying zone of the hand dryer. The user&#39;s hands do not need to leave the wash basin for the hands to be exposed to the drying air. Hence, water does not drip onto the floor as the user presents his hands to the dryer and water removed from the hands is blown into the wash basin rather than onto the floor. 
     The lavatory system described in the aforementioned application provides a significant improvement over conventional lavatory systems. However, the present inventor has discovered that many users of such an integrated wash station do not slide their hands over from below the faucet to the drying zone of the hand dryer. The inventor has found that some users, so conditioned to extract their hands from the wash basin entirely, will remove their hands from the wash basin and then present their hands to the front of the drying zone. As the hand dryer is activated when one or more proximity sensors sense the presence of the user&#39;s hands, it has been found that such a front-presentment can result in splashback of water onto the clothes of the user, the floor, or the countertop. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     A lavatory system may include a faucet extending from the lavatory system configured to dispense water. To facilitate hand washing, a soap dispenser may be attached to the lavatory system configured to dispense a liquid soap. Following hand washing, a hand dryer may be attached to the lavatory proximate the soap dispenser and including a first plenum outlet extending from a rear portion of the lavatory at a first height. 
     A basin may be attached to the lavatory system, configured to collect the water and the soap dispensed from the faucet and the soap dispenser. The basin may further include a second plenum outlet incorporated in the basin at a second height lower than the first height, wherein the first plenum outlet and the second plenum outlet deliver a pressurized air to dry a user&#39;s hands. 
     A display may also be incorporated in a portion of the lavatory system configured to display graphic or textual information to a user. a touch-sensitive sensor incorporated in the display configured to receive a manual input including operational parameters for the lavatory system including at least one of a motor run time, a faucet run time, and a volume of soap dispensed per cycle. 
     To promote further sanitation, a sterilization feature may be attached to the lavatory system including ultraviolet light configured to sterilize at least one of the basin, the pressurized air, and the user&#39;s hands. the sterilization features include a separate ultra violet chamber incorporating at least a portion of the basin configured to accept the user&#39;s hands. 
     A noise cancellation system may also be included within the lavatory system configured to mitigate a sound of the operation of the hand dryer. The noise cancellation system may include at least one of a mechanical noise cancellation device and an electrical noise cancellation device. A sound amplifier may be connected to the noise cancellation system configured to provide noise cancellation. A sound-absorbing material may also be attached to the lavatory configured to provide mechanical noise cancellation. 
     In order to monitor and maintain the lavatory, a system diagnostics system may be included within the lavatory system and also have an integrated diagnostic data collection system programmed to collect and display a diagnostic data on the display including at least one of a hand dryer motor run time, a soap level, a period between a motor use cycles, a hand dryer air filter status, and an amount of water dispensed from the faucet. A communication system may be used and configured to transmit the diagnostic data, in communication with a remote facility allowing a technician to remotely monitor the system diagnostics system. 
     For international use, a power circuit may be included within the lavatory system configured to adapt to a plurality of different voltage inputs from a plurality of different countries and modify the voltage input to match a voltage requirement of a blower motor for the hand dryer and other electrical apparatuses. 
     In order to more effectively direct the blown air, a plurality of nozzles may be used extending from the upper plenum outlet and the lower plenum outlet, wherein the nozzles include a non-uniform shape and a non-uniform size and wherein the nozzles are oriented in a plurality of angles. 
     A moisture detector may also be used proximate the hand dryer configured to measures a moisture level of the user&#39;s hands and determine a run time of the hand dryer. 
     The basin may also include a first drain in the basin below the faucet and a second drain in the basin below the upper plenum outlet. 
     In order to conserve energy, an electrical energy generator may be included within the lavatory system configured to convert a kinetic energy from the pressurized air of the upper plenum outlet and the lower plenum outlet into an electrical energy. 
     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  illustrates a front view of a lavatory system of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a front elevation view of a lavatory system according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 3  is a front elevation cutaway view of a lavatory system according to the present invention showing upper portion and hand-washing features; 
         FIG. 4  is a front elevation view of a cutaway portion of the lavatory system according to the present invention showing the faucet and soap dispenser; 
         FIG. 5  is a front elevation view of a cutaway portion of the lavatory system according to the present invention showing the upper portion and upper air outlet; 
         FIG. 6A  is a side view of a cutaway portion of the lavatory system according to the present invention showing the upper portion, lower nozzles, and basin; 
         FIG. 6B  is a side view of a cutaway portion of the lavatory system according to the present invention illustrating the hand dryer and lower nozzle tips; 
         FIG. 7  is a partially exploded lower view of the hand dryer showing the top portion, upper air outlet, and hand dryer sensors; 
         FIG. 8  is a partially exploded upper view of the top portion showing the upper plenum; 
         FIG. 9  is a side cross-sectional view of the lavatory system showing the hand dryer, motor, upper plenum, and lower plenum; 
         FIG. 10  is a view of the lavatory system showing the hand dryer motor, upper plenum, and lower plenum; 
         FIG. 11  is a lower view of the hand dryer upper plenum of the lavatory system according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 12  is a side cross-sectional view of the hand dryer upper plenum of the lavatory system according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 13  is a view of the hand dryer lower plenum of the lavatory system according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 14  is a side view of the hand dryer lower plenum of the lavatory system according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 15  is a view of the hand dryer motor of the lavatory system according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 16  is a side cross-sectional view of the hand dryer motor of the lavatory system according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 17  is a view of the sensor board of the lavatory system according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 18  is a lower front view of the lavatory system according to the present invention with a cover removed to show the mounting hardware; 
         FIG. 19  is a block diagram showing a preferred air flow path from the hand dryer motor; 
         FIG. 20  is a diagram showing the hand dryer sensors according to the present invention interacting with a hand; 
         FIG. 21  is a block diagram showing the hand dryer electrical components; 
         FIG. 22  is a front elevation view of another embodiment of a lavatory system according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 23  is a side view of a cutaway portion of still another embodiment of the lavatory system according to the present invention illustrating a hand dryer, drain hole, and lower nozzle portion; 
         FIG. 24  is a lower front view of the embodiment of  FIG. 23  according to the present invention with a cover removed to show a drain tube and drainpipe; 
         FIG. 25  is a schematic view of the fields-of-view provided by a bank of proximity sensors according to one embodiment of the invention including first and second proximity sensors; 
         FIG. 26  is a schematic view of the fields-of-view provided by a bank of proximity sensors according to an alternate embodiment of the invention including first and second proximity sensors; and 
         FIG. 27  is a front elevation cutaway view of a lavatory system according to a further embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     The present invention will be described with respect to a hand dryer that is part of an integrated lavatory system also having a wash basin, a water faucet, and, optionally, a soap dispenser. However, it is understood that the present invention is applicable with stand-alone hand dryers, such as conventional wall-mounted hand dryers, and may also be desirable for other types of dryers in which it is desirable to delay commencement of a drying cycle based on the presentment of an object for drying to a drying chamber, cavity, or zone. In one preferred embodiment, the present invention is applicable with an integrated lavatory system such as those described in U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 12/233,466 and 13/122,368 and herein incorporated by reference; however, as noted above, the invention is not so limited. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 1-24 , a lavatory system  10 , preferably, has a wash basin  20 , including a wash basin wall  22 . As shown in  FIGS. 1-4 , faucet  24  is provided within the wash basin  20 . The faucet  24  may include indicia etched thereon such as a water droplet symbol or a faucet light  23  for directing a user. Such indicia may be particularly helpful to a user that has poor eyesight. The faucet  24  may also include a sensor located behind a sensor window  25  which automatically engages a faucet control to provide water to the user. The faucet  24  is connected to plumbing to provide hot and/or cold water to the faucet. Preferably, the water is provided at a comfortable temperature for the user&#39;s hands. 
     A soap dispensing system  26  is near the faucet  24  and in the wash basin  20 . The soap dispenser  26  includes a spout  28  and a soap-dispensing sensor (located behind sensor window  29 ) to detect an object, such as a user&#39;s hand  166  (See, e.g.,  FIG. 20 ), and to provide soap thereto. Indicia, such as soap bubbles, or a light  27  may also be provided on the spout  28 . As best shown in  FIG. 1 , a countertop  30  is preferably provided above and around the wash basin  20 . The soap dispenser or system  26  includes a liquid soap container (not shown) located under the wash basin  20  and countertop  30  and that is connected to the spout  28 . A backsplash  32  may also be present and integral with the countertop  30 . Thus, the soap container is masked, in part, also by the backsplash  32 . Further disclosure of embodiments of the soap dispensing system  26  may be found in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 12/233,466 and 13/088,512 further incorporated herein by reference. 
     As best seen in  FIG. 2 , preferably a single drain  42 , preferably with drain cap, is provided in the wash basin  20 . This drain  42  takes soap and water from the wash basin  20  down to a drainpipe (not shown). The drainpipe  127  is preferably located directly under the wash basin  20  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 18 ). 
     As seen in  FIGS. 5-9 , the lavatory system  10  preferably includes an integral drying system, e.g., a hand dryer  50 . The dryer  50  has a hand-receiving cavity  52  and a motor  74 . In one preferred embodiment, a mechanism  40  for preventing flooding and damage to the motor  74  is provided. The mechanism  40  may include a flood relief rim or overflow lip  44  located on the wash basin  20 , see, e.g.,  FIG. 6A . The flood relief rim  44  is provided below the lower portion&#39;s air outlet  56  and the nozzle tips  162   b  as shown. Thus, water that cannot make it down the drain  42  will flow over the flood relief rim  44  and not down the nozzle holes  162   b  and into the motor  74 . Other motor protection and flood prevention mechanisms  40  will be described further below. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , the hand dryer  50  may be provided with etched instructional indicia, a heat wave symbol, or light  31 . A drain conduit  47  is preferably present to fluidly connect the hand-receiving cavity  52  and wash basin  20 . The conduit  47  removes excess water left from the user&#39;s hands through the hand-receiving cavity  52  down toward the single drain  42  in the wash basin  20 . This water then travels down the drainpipe  127 , see, e.g.,  FIG. 18 . 
     As best seen in  FIG. 5 , the hand dryer  50  is preferably provided with a top portion  53  and a bottom portion  55 . The top portion  53  may also include a hood  51  with a base which forms a top wall  57  of the cavity  52 . The top portion hood  51  may also include a top portion cover which may form a shelf  58 . An upper air outlet  54  is also provided in the upper portion  53 . 
     As best shown in  FIGS. 5, 6A, and 6B , a bottom portion  55  includes a lower air outlet  56 . The bottom portion  55  is formed, in part, by bottom wall  59 . The bottom portion  55  of the hand-receiving cavity  52  preferably also includes a back wall  60 , front wall  61 , and single side wall  62  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 5 ). A front ledge  63  is preferably integral with the front wall  61 . The hand-receiving cavity  52 , therefore, is preferably configured to have a front opening  64  and a single side opening  65  (herein the left side) and to allow users to enter their hands at a generally oblique angle. Further, instructions  69  for using the hand dryer may provided on the front ledge  63  as shown in  FIG. 6B . 
     As best shown in  FIG. 7 , one embodiment includes a top wall or base  57  that attaches to the backsplash  32  (not shown) and countertop  30  (not shown) preferably with bolts  68   a  and  68   b . A side anchoring screw  68   c  is also provided to attach the top portion  53  to side wall  62  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 9 ). The top portion  53  preferably also has multiple sensors  103   a - d  and LED lights, e.g.,  108   a - e  located therein and preferably covered by a window to protect them from splashing water and debris. 
       FIG. 8  shows the top portion  53  of the hand dryer  50  with the top cover  58  removed. Inside the top portion  53  is a hose  140   a  which attaches to a first or upper plenum  142 . The hose  140   a  is connected to the first or upper plenum air inlet  143  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 11 ) to provide air to the upper plenum  142 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 9 and 10 , a second, or lower plenum  144 , is also provided. The lower plenum  144  is connected to a hose  140   b  which delivers air to the lower plenum  144  via a lower plenum air inlet  145 . The preferably flexible hoses  140   a  and  140   b  are attached to a first outlet port  88  and a second outlet port  90  which are preferably on or part of a motor housing  70 . A blower  71  including a motor  74  with a fan  76  (see, e.g.  FIGS. 15 and 16 ), provides air to the hand dryer  50 . The air outlets  54 ,  56  are configured in such a way so that they provide air into the hand-receiving cavity  52  (see, e.g.,  FIGS. 5 and 6B ) downwardly and back toward the back wall  60 . For example, in one embodiment, the two outlet or exhaust ports  54 ,  56  are offset from one another in horizontal planes, i.e., the lower plenum  144  nozzle holes  164   b  are at about a 37 degree angle from horizontal and located closer to the user than the upper plenum  142  nozzle holes  164   a  which are at about an angle of 1 degree rearward from vertical and located closer to the backsplash  32  of the hand dryer cavity  52 . This configuration prevents water from splashing onto the user once it is removed from the user&#39;s hands.  FIG. 10  shows the motor  74  and motor housing  70  operably connected to plenums  142 ,  144 . As shown, the motor housing  70  preferably has an aluminum cover plate  72  and an intake cover  96 . 
       FIGS. 11 and 12  show the upper plenum  142  in detail. The upper plenum  142 , preferably, is constructed of top piece  146  and a bottom piece  148 . The upper plenum air inlet  143  is preferably integral with the upper plenum&#39;s  142  top piece  146  and bottom piece  148 . A center post  150  and a screw  152  may be used to connect the top piece  146  to the bottom piece  148 . Plastic bonding techniques, such as adhesives, may also be used. Additional screws and posts may also be provided along the outside of the plenum  142 . The plenum  142  preferably has top nozzles  160   a  molded into it to provide the top portion upper air outlet  54 . The top nozzles  160   a  preferably include pointed or frustoconical nozzle tips  162   a  that have nozzle holes  164   a  therethrough. The upper plenum  142  has multiple projections or tabs  147   a  protruding therefrom. The projections  147   a  act as connecting points for screws to attach the plenum to the lavatory system  10 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 13 and 14 , the lower plenum  144  is similarly configured. The lower plenum  144  has a top piece  147  connected to a bottom piece  149 , preferably, by bonding and/or posts and screws. A lower plenum air inlet  145  is also provided. The lower plenum air inlet  145  is preferably integral with the rest of the lower plenum  144 . The lower plenum  144  also has multiple projections or tabs  147   b  protruding therefrom which act as connecting points for screws to attach the plenum  144  to the lavatory system  10 . The upper plenum  142  and the lower plenum  144  are preferably each constructed of two injection-molded plastic top and bottom pieces bonded and/or screwed together. Each plenum may also contain a center post screw (not shown) to minimize deflection of the plenum when pressurized. 
     Bottom nozzles  160   b  are provided, again, preferably by molding into the lower plenum  144 . Lower nozzles  160   b , like the upper nozzles  160   a , preferably have protruding frustoconical nozzle tips  162   b  each of which has a nozzle hole  164   b  therethrough. The shape of the nozzle tips  162   b  on the lower plenum  144  further acts as a flood prevention mechanism  40  to protect the motor  74 . 
     The hand-dryer blower  71 , motor  74 , and motor housing  70  are best shown in  FIGS. 15 and 16 . Motor housing  70  includes an aluminum cover plate  72  and an upper or outer casement  80 . An intake air manifold cap or housing cap  82  is provided toward a lower end of the motor housing  70 . The motor  74  is inside the motor housing  70  and has a fan  76  with blades (not shown) to blow air. Preferably, a rubber motor mounting ring and/or housing isolation gasket  86  is also provided. This gasket  86  helps reduce vibrations and deaden the motor&#39;s sound. A filter  84  is preferably provided within the housing  70  to filter the intake air. The filter  84  is preferably constructed of HEPA media or some other suitable media. Also contained within the motor housing  70  is acoustic insulation foam  83  to further isolate and lessen motor noise. The motor may be electronically commutated to eliminate the exhaust of worn carbon through the air passages of the hand dryer system and toward the hand dryer user&#39;s hands. 
     The intake air portion or lower portion of the motor housing cap  82  is configured with a solid center section  95  surrounded by a circular pattern of holes  94 . This configuration is spaced at a distance similar to the half wave length of the fan blade passing frequency of the fan motor  74 . As a result, acoustical waves are reflected off of the solid center section  95  on the bottom of the housing cap  82  at a fan cowling and the acoustical foam  83 , and eventually propagate through the circular hole pattern  94  in an attenuated manner. 
     A filter or intake cover  96  may also be provided in the housing  70  to contain or to hold the filter  84  in place. To further attenuate sound generated by the fan motor  74 , insulation or acoustical foam  97  is placed on the inside of the intake cover  96 . The cover  96  is preferably further configured to redirect the intake air 90 degrees from the axial center of the fan  76  and motor  74 . This design promotes reflection of acoustical waves off of the noise-reducing acoustical foam  97 . A wire or other locking mechanism  87  is provided to keep the filter cover  96  in place. 
     As shown in  FIG. 15 , the first outlet port  88  and second outlet port  90  may include first outlet port grate  92   a  and second outlet port grate  92   b , respectively, to prevent fingers or hands from accidentally being pushed into the motor  74  (not shown). These grates are preferably integrally molded into the port outlets. 
     Referring to  FIG. 16 , in one preferred embodiment, a motor control board or circuit board  98  is contained in the housing  70  and includes a motor control, a controller  99 , or, e.g., a microcontroller, for turning the motor on/off and further controlling the motor  74 . This controller  99  may be in communication with several other sensors and/or subsystems, as will be described more fully below. The board  98  is preferably in communication with aluminum plate  72  which acts as a heat sink to channel heat away from the board  98 . The plate  72  also acts as mounting platform for the board  98 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 18 , the lavatory system  10  is preferably attached to a lavatory wall  118  and can be mounted at different heights to accommodate adults, children, and those with disabilities. A frame  120  may be connected to the lavatory wall to support the lavatory system  10 . The frame  120  preferably has two triangular-shaped brackets  121 ,  122  having flat surfaces, support columns  126 ,  128  on an underside of the wash basin  20  and hand dryer portion  50 . A drain pipe  127  connects the drain  42  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 2 ) to the lavatory&#39;s plumbing behind the lavatory wall  118 . Screws or other fastening means secure the brackets in place. 
     The frame  120  and drain pipe  127  are preferably covered by a lavatory system cover  130  (as best seen in  FIGS. 1 and 2 ). The lavatory system cover  130  not only conceals the frame, motor, electrical connections, and plumbing, but it also preferably reduces the sound level experienced by the user. The cover  130  preferably also has brand indicia  131  and other user instructional indicia contained thereon. First end cap  115   a  and second end cap  115   b  help secure the cover  130  to lavatory system  10 . The end caps  115   a ,  115   b  are preferably made of stainless steel and the cover  130  is preferably made of a plastic and/or resin material, e.g., a Class A fire-rated polymer. A primary air inlet  136  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 9 ) is preferably provided by creating a small gap between the lavatory wall  118  and the cover  130 . The gap provides noise attenuation and also prevents foreign objects from getting sucked into the primary air inlet  136 . 
       FIG. 19  is a diagram showing a preferred air flow for the blower  71  from the motor  74  and fan  76  out the first outlet port  88  and second outlet port  90 . From the first outlet port  88 , the air travels up through a grate  92   a  and via a hose  140   a  to a first or upper plenum  142  and out an air outlet  54 . The air outlet  54  channels the air through individual upper nozzles  160   a  having upper nozzle tips  162   a  with air holes and into columns of air directed downwardly at a user&#39;s hands in the cavity. From the second outlet port  90 , the air travels through a second outlet port grate  92   b  and via a hose  140   b  to a second or lower plenum  144  and out an air outlet  56 . The air outlet  56  channels the air up through lower nozzles  160   b  having lower nozzle tips  162   b  with air holes and into columns of air directed outwardly at a user&#39;s hands in the cavity. 
     In a preferred embodiment, upper and lower nozzle tips  162   a ,  162   b  connected to the nozzles  160   a ,  160   b  emit high-speed colliding columns of air to shear water off the user&#39;s hand. The tips, holes, and resulting air columns are spaced and calibrated in such a way as to reduce forces on the user&#39;s hand which would otherwise move the hand toward the upper or lower plenums or the side surfaces. As mentioned, one way of accomplishing this spacing and calibration is to have the axis of the air flow from upper plenum  142  nozzle holes  164   a  angled about 1 degree from vertical and aimed toward the cavity back wall  60  ( FIG. 9 ) and the axis of the air flow from lower plenum  144  nozzle holes  164   b  angled about 37 degrees from horizontal and aimed toward the cavity back wall  60 . Moreover, the upper to lower nozzle tip spacing may be about 3.5 inches apart and the hand-receiving cavity  52  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 5 ) may have width of about 9.5 to 10 inches to provide the user with optimal comfort when using. 
     In one embodiment, the nozzles  160   a ,  160   b  preferably have tips  162   a ,  162   b  that are pointed protrusions that help pull static air into the air columns, see, e.g.,  FIGS. 12 and 14 . These rows of nozzles are preferably mounted on two, approximately ten (10) inch, rectangular blocks or blades that fit, respectively, into the top and bottom air outlets  54 ,  56 . The blades are preferably integral with the upper and lower plenums  142 ,  144 . There are approximately 20 nozzles with tips formed or molded into each blade. These tips are approximately 0.050-0.060 inches long and have a diameter at the base of approximately 0.160-0.220 inches. The holes therein are preferably about 0.101 inches in diameter. From the center of one nozzle hole to the center of the next nozzle hole, it is preferably about 0.50 inches. As mentioned, the tips  162   a ,  162   b  preferably have a generally frustoconical shape to help prevent water from entering the nozzles  160   a ,  160   b  and also have about a 6 degree taper. In one preferred embodiment, the tips have a smooth, slightly rounded side wall to prevent catching of clothing or jewelry. When the dryer  50  is in use, the user&#39;s hands are preferably about 0.75 inches away from the nozzle tips. 
     As discussed, in one embodiment, the nozzles and holes on the top blade and the nozzles and holes on the bottom blade are at different angles from the horizontal plane and vertically aligned with one another so that the collision of the upper and lower streams of air provide a unique air flow pattern. This configuration preferably helps to generate an s-shaped airflow pattern. However, in another alternative embodiment, the holes and nozzles are lined up directly across the cavity from each other. 
     In one embodiment, the preferred bidirectional or dual-sided air flow dryer uses 1600 watts (or 13.7 amps) and will dry hands in about 15 seconds at 80 decibels (dB) with 70 cubic feet per minute (CFM). In this embodiment, the dryer runs off a 120V outlet and requires a dedicated 20 ampere (amp) circuit. Ground fault interruption (GFI) circuit protection is preferred. It is understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the above-referenced parameters. For example, it is contemplated that the dryer could run on a 15 amp circuit. 
     Referring now primarily to  FIG. 17 , a sensor control board  100  is preferably provided in the top portion  53  near the upper plenum  142  (see, e.g.  FIG. 9 ). The sensor control board  100  includes a controller  78 , e.g., a microcontroller, and a multitude of sensors  103   a ,  103   b ,  103   c ,  103   d . In the preferred embodiment, four proximity sensors (e.g., first, second, third, fourth proximity sensors) are provided in series. These work independently through triangulation to detect an object for drying  166 , e.g., a user&#39;s hands, in the cavity  52  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 5 ). Lights or LEDs  108   a - m  may also be mounted to the control board  100 . Some or all of the LEDs, e.g., LEDs  108   a - 1 , may be activated when the first through fourth proximity sensors  103   a - d  detect an object for drying in the hand-receiving cavity  52 . 
     In one embodiment, the LEDs  108   a - m  are operably connected to the hand dryer  50 . For example, LEDs  108   a - d  continuously illuminate the hand-receiving cavity  52  at a low intensity level when a sensor does not detect the presence of an object for drying, i.e., the cavity is not in use or in “stand-by”. However, when a sensor detects that an object for drying has entered into the hand-receiving cavity  52 , and during dryer  50  activation, preferably the LEDs  108   e - h  and  108   i - 1  also illuminate cavity and thus increase the overall intensity level of light in the cavity. In another embodiment, LEDs  108   a - d  do not begin to illuminate the cavity until the soap is dispensed or the water begins to flow in the basin. 
     In a preferred embodiment, when a staff member wishes to clean and service the lavatory system  10 , the staff member may engage a service mode. Here the LEDs  108   a - d  and  108   e - h  continuously illuminate the hand-receiving cavity  52 . Activation of hand dryer  50  is also suppressed by communication between controller  78  and controller  99 . In one embodiment, service mode activation is accomplished by triggering a sensor, e.g., the right-most sensor  103   d  in the upper portion of the hand-receiving cavity  52 , for an extended time period. Thus, if this one sensor consistently detects an object for drying in the hand-receiving cavity  52 , the hand dryer  50  is disabled for about 30 to 60 seconds and some of the LEDs, e.g., LEDs  108   e - h , may be illuminated at a high-intensity level. This allows the hand-receiving cavity  52  to be temporarily cleaned without further engaging the hand dryer  50 . 
     The LEDs, e.g.,  108   i - l , may flash in certain ways when the service mode has been started and/or is about to end. For example, in one embodiment, prior to the service mode, one row of four white LEDs provides lower level illumination of the hand dryer cavity. However, if the right-most sensor is triggered within the last 2 seconds, and if a hand is placed over the right-most sensor for the period of 3 seconds, a row of four amber LEDs will rapidly flash twice to designate that the unit is entering the service mode. At the same time, a second row of four white LEDs will turn on to increase the illumination of the hand cavity for approximately 30 seconds to assist in cleaning. After approximately 25 seconds from when the service mode was started, the row of four amber LEDs will flash three times to indicate that the service mode cycle is nearing completion. At the end of the service mode cycle (5 seconds after the four amber LEDs flash three times or about 30 seconds in total service cycle length), the second row of white LEDs will turn off and the hand dryer cavity will remain lit at the lower level of illumination by the first row of four LEDs. 
     In one embodiment, the service mode includes a controller  78 , e.g., a microcontroller, with a programmed touchless cleaning mode feature wherein if one sensor is the only sensor activated within the last two seconds and if activated continuously for about three (3) seconds, the hand dryer  50  will enter the mode to allow cleaning of the hand dryer  50 . This mode lasts for about 30 seconds, during which dryer activation is suppressed, and then the controller will return the system to normal operation. The controller will flash the LED lights twice when entering the cleaning mode and three times when approaching a time near the end of a cleaning cycle which is approximately 25 seconds into an about 30 second cleaning cycle. If the cleaning mode is longer in another embodiment, the lights will flash three times, 5 seconds before the end of the cleaning cycle. 
       FIG. 20  is a diagram showing triangulation of the sensors  103   a - 103   d  in detecting an object for drying in the hand-receiving cavity  52 , e.g., a user&#39;s hand  166 . In a preferred embodiment, it should be noted that hand entry occurs at an oblique angle. Hand  166  entry angles range from approximately 5 to 50 degrees from horizontal depending on the user&#39;s height and the mounting height of the lavatory system  10 . For example, sensors  103   a - d  may be infrared (IR) sensors with emitter sections emitting IR light  104   a - d , respectively. The IR light  104   a  and  104   b  may be reflected by hand  166 . Each IR sensor  103   a - d  also has a detection module  105   a - d , respectively. 
     The sensor detection modules  105   a  and  105   b  utilize an internal triangulation algorithm to sense IR light,  106   a  and  106   b  respectively, when an object for drying is in the sensor&#39;s field of view. When a user&#39;s hand  166  enters the hand-receiving cavity  52 , the sensor detection modules  105   a  and  105   b  output an electrical signal (e.g. a 5 volt signal). This signal is used by the controller  78  to determine whether to activate the hand dryer ( 50 ) and LED lights  108   e - 1  (see  FIG. 17 ). 
       FIG. 21  is a diagram showing a preferred electronic control communications embodiment. In this embodiment, at least one controller  78  communicates with the various subsystems, e.g., the first, second, third, and fourth hand dryer sensors  103   a - d , LED lights  108   a - 1 , and hand dryer  50  (including hand dryer motor&#39;s controller  99 ). In this embodiment, the controller  78  may include a pre-programmed programmable unit having a time delay mechanism for turning the subsystems on and off in a certain sequence. Of course, it is appreciated that one or more controllers may be used, for example, one for each subsystem, and may therefore be configured to communicate with each other. In one embodiment, a sensor control board or circuit board  100  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 17 ) is provided and includes a controller  78  and a single bank of sensors ( 103   a - d ) to measure distance by triangulation. There may also be present on this sensor control board  100 , LEDs  108   a - d  that will continuously illuminate the hand-receiving cavity  52 . LEDs  108   e - h  and LEDs  108   i - 1  may also be present and illuminate when the sensors  103   a - d  detect a user&#39;s hand  166  in the cavity. In one embodiment, white lights are used when the dryer is in standby, and amber lights are used when the dryer is in use. 
     A programmable unit may be present on the sensor control board  100  and/or motor control board  98  and preferably includes a time-delay mechanism, for example, in communication with an on/off switch for the motor  74 . In this embodiment, when one of the sensors  103   a - d  is activated by an object for drying, e.g., a user&#39;s hands, in the hand-receiving cavity  52 , the controller  78  rechecks the activated sensor multiple times to validate that hands are in the hand-receiving cavity  52 . Then the delay mechanism allows users to enter their hands  166  fully into the hand-receiving cavity  52  prior to the hand dryer motor  74  achieving full speed. This minimizes the potential of any splashing of water back on the user as a result of the fully active hand dryer imposing a shearing action on water present on the user&#39;s hands. There may be additional sensors (not shown) that may inhibit the dispensing of water or soap or activation of the dryer when a critical water level is reached in the wash basin and thus prevent overflow, flooding, and/or motor damage. 
     In another embodiment, there is communication between the faucet sensor controller and the dryer sensor controller. For example, when the faucet is used, the lights on the dryer go from off to on, e.g., to white. This feature could be used to indicate to the user that the user should move from the faucet to the dryer next, and thus make the wash station use more intuitive. This feature could also lock the faucet off while the user&#39;s hands are being dried. This would save water as it would truncate the faucet turn off time. It would also eliminate any splashing due to the dryer air flow through the basin. 
     In one embodiment, multiple distance sensors  103   a - d  utilize triangulation one at a time and from left to right in their field of view to detect an object for drying. These sensors are preferably positioned so they are recessed in the upper portion  53  and aimed vertically into the hand-receiving cavity  52 . Recessing is minimal, however, to avoid adversely impacting sensor operation. In one embodiment, the sensor board  100  is programmed to check all sensors at about 130 millisecond (ms) intervals. When a sensor flags a detection, it is then rechecked fifteen times over about a 15 ms period to ensure the detection was not a false trigger. 
     The temperature rise of the air during a drying cycle is dependent upon how long the user keeps the hand dryer  50  activated. Since the system  10  does not use an auxiliary air heater, the air temperature rise is a result of the heat generated by the inefficiency of the motor  74 . The other factor dictating the motor temperature rise is how frequently the motor  74  is activated. In a high usage environment (airport, sports arena, etc.), the motor  74  will not typically cool down very much between cycles and the air temperature rise experienced by the user will be significantly higher than that of a hand dryer which operates infrequently. The following chart shows some typically-expected temperature rises. 
     
       
         
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                 Expected Temperature Rise Above 
               
               
                   
                 Drying 
                 Cycle 
                 Ambient Temperature (F.) @ 120 V 
               
               
                   
                 Cycle 
                 Length 
                 (rated operating voltage) 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
             
               
                   
                 Normal 
                 12- 
                 12-50 
               
               
                   
                   
                 15 seconds 
                   
               
               
                   
                 Maximum 
                 30 seconds 
                 22-50 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     In one embodiment, additional safety and cleaning features may be present. For example, UV lighting or some other sterilization technique to disinfect the hand-receiving cavity  52  may be provided. Further, only one drain may be provided between the wash basin  20  and outside of hand-receiving cavity  52  to eliminate the need for another device to catch water from the dryer  50  that must be emptied and can collect harmful molds or germs. Certain dryer components, like the nozzles  160   a ,  160   b , may have an antimicrobial additive molded into the plastic. Further, the entire wash basin  20  and hand-receiving cavity  52  may be constructed, in part, of an antimicrobial material or may be coated with such a material during manufacture. 
     In one embodiment, a second row of holes, a slot, and a port are present to provide a lower velocity air stream to further minimize water splashing onto a user. 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 22 , the drying system or dryer  250  may be a stand-alone unit but still mounted in close proximity to the wash basin. In this embodiment, lavatory hand dryer  250  includes a hand-receiving cavity  252 , a top portion  253 , a bottom portion  255 , a back side or wall  260 , and at least one side wall  262 . Note that while a right side wall is shown, the dryer may have only a left side wall. Alternatively, two side walls or partial side walls may be present. The top portion  253  may also include a hood  251  which forms a top wall or side  257  of the cavity  252 . The top portion hood  251  may also include a top portion cover which may form a shelf  258 . An upper air outlet  254  is also provided in the top or upper portion  253  and incorporates nozzle holes  262   a.    
     A bottom portion  255  includes a lower air outlet  256 . The bottom portion  255  is formed, in part, by a bottom wall or side  259 . The bottom portion  255  of the hand-receiving cavity  252  also includes a back wall or side  260 , front wall or side  261 , and side wall  262 . A front ledge  263  is integral with the front wall  261 . The hand-receiving cavity  252 , therefore, is preferably configured to have a front opening  264  and a side opening  265  (shown on the left side). In this embodiment, the dryer&#39;s configuration and placement preferably allows the user to easily transition the hands from the wash basin to the dryer without dripping water onto the floor. 
     In one preferred embodiment, a mechanism  240  for preventing flooding and damage to the hand dryer motor is provided as well as to prevent water blown from a user&#39;s hands from falling to the floor and creating a slip hazard or unsanitary conditions. The mechanism  240  may include a flood relief rim  244  located on, for example, the left side of the hand-receiving cavity  252  at the opening  265 . The flood relief rim  244  is provided below the lower portion&#39;s air outlet  256  and the nozzle tips  262   b  as shown. Thus, water flows over the flood relief rim  244  and not down the nozzle holes  264   b  and into the motor (not shown). In addition, another motor protection mechanism  240  may be the frustoconical lower nozzle tips  262   b  which resist the entry of water. 
     Other preferred embodiments of the hand dryer  250  may include a side wall  262  on the left side and an opening  265  on the right side. In yet another preferred embodiment, the hand dryer  250  may include both a left side, side wall and a right side, side wall. 
     The primary components of the inventive lavatory system including the dryer bottom wall, a back wall, and single side wall are preferably formed from a plastic and/or resin material. In one embodiment, the system components may be formed from a solid polymeric and/or a polymeric and stone material. In another embodiment, the system components may be manufactured from Terreon® or TerreonRE® which are low emitting, e.g., Greenguard™ materials and available from the Bradley Corporation of Wisconsin. 
     In another embodiment, as best shown in  FIGS. 23 and 24 , lavatory system  310  has another mechanism  340  to prevent flooding of the motor (not shown). For example, as shown a drainage hole  350  is present in a lower portion of the hand-receiving cavity  352  to preferably provide an integrated overflow drain. Hole  350  is connected to a drainage tube  360  and is located slightly below the plenum  365  and plenum outlet  355  and nozzle holes to prevent flooding of the motor. The drainage tube  360  connects to the drainpipe  347  located beneath the basin  320 . Of course, as is know in the art, traditional drainage systems, like weep holes in the basin itself, may also be provided. 
     As described above with respect to  FIG. 17 , the top portion  53  of the upper plenum  142  has, in one embodiment, first, second, third, and fourth proximity sensors  103   a ,  103   b ,  103   c ,  103   d , respectively, that work independently through triangulation to detect an object for drying, i.e., user&#39;s hand(s), in the hand-receiving cavity  52 . In one embodiment of the lavatory system  10 , as shown particularly in  FIG. 7 , the sensors  103   a ,  103   b ,  103   c ,  103   d  are positioned adjacent the leading edge of the top portion  53  of the upper plenum  142 . As described above, the sensors use triangulation to detect an object for drying being presented to and present within the hand-receiving cavity  52 . With additional reference to the schematic view in  FIG. 25 , the sensors  103   a ,  103   b ,  103   c ,  103   d  are configured and arranged to have non-overlapping fields of view (“FOV”)  266   a ,  266   b ,  266   c ,  266   d , respectively. When a user&#39;s hand(s) are presented to the hand-receiving cavity  52 , the left-most sensor  103   a  first detects the presentment and provides a corresponding electrical signal to the controller  78 , which in turn provides a command signal to the hand dryer controller  99 . As described above, in one preferred embodiment, operation of the hand dryer is delayed by a preset value, e.g., 400 ms, upon detection of a user&#39;s hand being presented to the hand-receiving cavity. 
     As shown in  FIG. 5 , the configuration of the hand-receiving cavity  52  allows a user to present his hand(s) for drying from the side opening  65  of the hand-receiving cavity  52 , such as along arrow  267  of  FIG. 1 , or from the front opening  64  of the hand-receiving cavity  52 , such as along arrow  268  of  FIG. 9 . In the case of the latter, depending upon the lateral position of the user&#39;s hand(s), any of the sensors may first detect the user&#39;s hand(s) and provide a corresponding activation signal, as described above. It has been found that when hand(s) are front-presented (e.g., along  268 ), as opposed to side-presented (e.g., along  267 ), the observed inherent motor delay that results from sampling, detection, and processing times is insufficient to avoid splashback onto the user. That is, a single motor delay based solely on side-presentment to the hand-receiving cavity can result in splashback onto the user when the user presents his hand(s) to the hand-receiving cavity  52  from the front. 
     Therefore, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention, one of two motor delays is selectively observed depending on how the user presents his hand(s) for drying. Referring now to the embodiment shown in schematic view in  FIG. 26 , the sensors  103   a ,  103   b ,  103   c ,  103   d  are arranged such that the FOV  266   a  for sensor  103   a  is rotated approximately 90 degrees from the FOVs  266   b ,  266   c ,  266   d . In this regard, sensor  103   a  is arranged to only detect side-presentment along arrow  267  to the hand-receiving cavity  52 . The FOVs  266   b ,  266   c ,  266   d  for the other sensors  103   b ,  103   c ,  103   d  can detect front-presentment along arrow  268  as well as detect a user&#39;s hand(s) within the hand-receiving cavity  52 , as described above. As sensor  103   a  only detects side-presentment along arrow  267  to the hand-receiving cavity  52 , actuation of the hand dryer motor  74  can be controlled based on which sensor detects presentment to the hand-receiving cavity. 
     For example, and in one preferred embodiment, if the first hand sensor  103  detects hand presentment to the hand-receiving cavity  52 , the sensor  103   a  provides a corresponding electrical signal to the controller  78 . The controller  78  includes software or firmware that distinguishes between an electrical signal being received from first sensor  103   a  versus the second, third, and fourth sensors  103   b ,  103   c ,  103   d . With knowledge that the first object detection signal came from sensor  103   a , the controller  78  provides hand dryer motor activation signal to the hand dryer controller  99 . This motor activation signal results in the hand dryer motor being activated after a first programmed delay period, e.g., 0-300 ms. However, if any of the other sensors  103   b ,  103   c ,  103   d  provides a first detection signal to the controller  78 , the hand dryer controller  99  causes operation of the hand dryer motor  74  after a second programmed delay period, e.g., 200-800 ms. The first and second delay periods are selected such that the second delay period preferably exceeds the first delay period. Thus, in one embodiment, operation of the hand dryer motor is delayed further if a user presents his hand(s) to the hand-receiving cavity  52  from the front. This allows more time for the user to move his hands deeper into the hand-receiving cavity  52  before the blower provides drying air to the hand-receiving cavity. Preferably, the drying airstreams are provided at approximately wrist level in the hand-receiving cavity  52 , and observing a longer delay before commencing drying when hands are front-presented allows the user sufficient time to insert his hands to the wrist level position before air is injected into the cavity  52 . 
     It is contemplated that more than one controller may be used to provide command signals to the hand dryer controller  99 . For example, the first hand dryer sensor  103   a  may be coupled to a dedicated controller whereas the other sensors  103   b ,  103   c ,  103   d  communicate with a shared controller, similar to that shown in  FIG. 21 . 
     In accordance with an alternate embodiment of the present invention, the hand dryer  50  may include a second bank or set of sensors. These sensors are mounted along a side portion of the upper plenum and are designed to sense side-presentment  267  of a user&#39;s hand(s) to the hand-receiving cavity. The afore-described sensors  103   a ,  103   b ,  103   c ,  103   d  are mounted adjacent the front of the hand-receiving cavity. Preferably, the respective sets of sensors have mutually exclusive FOV so that side-presentment from opening  65  of a user&#39;s hand(s) is not detected by the front-facing sensors and front-presentment from opening  64  of the user&#39;s hand(s) is not detected by the side-facing sensors. 
     Each set of sensors is operative to provide activation commands to the motor to commence operation of the motor. However, the front-facing sensors, upon detecting an object for drying  166  within their FOV, instruct the motor to commence activation after observing a longer second delay period than that provided to the motor by the side-sensing sensors. In one embodiment, the longer second delay period falls in the range of approximately 200-800 ms whereas the shorter first delay period falls in the range of approximately 0-300 ms. Note that these values are merely exemplary, and the first and second delay periods are preferably selected such that the second delay period exceeds the first delay period. 
     In accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention, a single sensor is used to detect side or front presentment of a user&#39;s hand(s) from openings  65  and  64  respectively into the hand-receiving cavity  52 . In this embodiment, which is shown in  FIG. 27 , a single sensor  270  with a rotating FOV is positioned at a corner of the top portion  53  near the upper plenum  142 . The single sensor  270  has a continuously rotating or wide FOV that travels across the area adjacent the side of the hand-receiving cavity  52 , the front side of the hand-receiving cavity, and the within the hand-receiving cavity. As the FOV is rotated across the side and the front of the hand-receiving cavity, correlating the position of the FOV when the sensor  270  detects an object for drying can be used to determine if the user is presenting his hand(s) in a side-presentment or a front-presentment manner. For example, in one embodiment, the sensor  270  has a pulsating emitter and a detector. The emitter is configured to iteratively pulse an IR beam beside, in front of, and within the hand-receiving cavity. Based on which reflected pulse is detected by the detector, the controller  78 , e.g., microcontroller, can determine the presentment position of the user&#39;s hand(s) and control the hand dryer motor controller  99  accordingly. It is contemplated that other types of means may be used to sweep the FOV of the sensor  270  across the drying zone  266 . 
     In yet another embodiment that is similar to that described above with respect to  FIG. 26 , it is contemplated that the sensors are sequentially pulsed to determine the position of the user&#39;s hand(s). 
     It will also be appreciated that the present invention can be embodied in a method of controlling the drying operation of a hand dryer  50  based on the position at which a user presents his hand(s) to a drying cavity or chamber  52  having at least two points of entry, for example, the side opening of drying chamber  65  and the front opening of drying chamber  64 . (See, e.g.,  FIGS. 5 and 6A ). The first point of entry or ingress  65  is the side of the drying chamber  52  while the second point of entry or ingress  64  is the front of the drying chamber  52 . In accordance with one embodiment of this method, as shown in  FIG. 25 , the method includes iteratively scanning a first detection zone  266   a  including near the first point of ingress  65 , iteratively scanning a second detection zone  266   b  including near the second point of ingress  64 , supplying drying air with a first delay if an object is detected in the first zone  266   a , and supplying drying air with a second delay if an object is detected in the second zone  266   b , wherein the second delay period is greater than the first delay period In one implementation, the first delay period is a value between zero and 300 ms whereas the second delay period is a value between 200 and 800 ms, and the first and second delay periods are selected such that the second delay period exceeds the first delay period. 
     It will be appreciated that infrared sensors for detecting the ingress and egress of hands to and from the front of drying chamber  64  and the side of drying chamber  65  are but one of a number of different object-detecting technologies that could be used to detect an object for drying  166  in the drying chamber  52 . For example, it is contemplated that camera and image processing technology could be used. 
     Further, it is contemplated that the invention could be used with a lavatory system having a single dryer situated between a pair of wash basins. It is also contemplated that sensors remote from the hand dryer  50  could determine the direction of presentment. For example, sensors at or near the water faucet could detect motion of the hands after the water faucet has stopped dispensing water. If the hands are pulled away from the faucet, the hand dryer  50  could be caused to operate with a front-presentment (e.g., along  268 ) to the hand-drying cavity assumed. If the hands are moved sideways from the faucet, a side-presentment (e.g., along  267 ) to the hand-drying cavity could be presumed. 
     It is also noted that so-called “smart” technology could be incorporated into the lavatory system described herein to guide or sequence use of the various components of the lavatory system. For example, the lavatory system could be equipped with directional lights that guide (or at least remind) the user to apply soap and, after washing, slide his hands into the drying chamber. Similarly, it is contemplated that the various components could be selectively locked out to prevent simultaneous activation of two components. For instance, it may be undesirable to have the water faucet capable of being activated when the dryer is forcing air into the drying cavity. If the water faucet was dispensing water while the dryer was active, it could lead to undesirable splashing of the water. Additionally, locking out certain components or features of the lavatory system may also sequence use of the lavatory system. For example, water faucet and dryer operations may be locked out until the soap dispenser has been activated. In such a situation, the aforementioned lights or similar devices could be used to direct the user to first apply soap to his hands before watering or drying his hands. Such a system may be highly preferred in food-handling operations, such as restaurants. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 16 , in a preferred embodiment of the invention, a filter, i.e., HEPA filter  84 , is provided within the motor housing  70  to filter the intake air. In a further embodiment, a filter sensor  272  is provided to monitor the condition of the filter  84 , e.g., by analyzing air flow through the filter. In one embodiment, the filter sensor  272  is a differential pressure (or vacuum) transducer that is located between the filter  84  and the intake to the motor  74 , such as in intake cavity  274 . The transducer measures the difference in pressure between atmospheric pressure and the vacuum in the intake cavity  274 . As such, the filter sensor  272  is also fluidly connected to a vent hose  276  that is vented to atmosphere. The filter sensor  272  is connected to logic (not shown) of the motor control  98  in a conventional manner such that operation of the motor  74  can be controlled based on the condition of the filter  84 . 
     In one preferred method of use, one of four actions is taken based on the output of the filter sensor  272  and thus, preferably, the output of the filter sensor  272  is compared by the logic to potentially three different predefined levels. When the filter sensor  272  output is below a first vacuum level, as detected by the filter sensor  272 , an indicator, e.g., light  278  ( FIG. 1 ), is illuminated to indicate a “missing filter” condition has been detected and thus, signals a user or maintenance personnel that the filter  84  needs to be installed to prevent the ingress of foreign objects into the hand dryer apparatus. When filter sensor  272  output is between the first and a second vacuum level, no action is taken, thereby indicating that the filter  84  is operating properly. However, if the filter sensor  272  output reaches a second vacuum level, an indicator, e.g., light  278  ( FIG. 1 ), is illuminated to indicate a “dirty filter” condition has been detected and, thus, signals a user or maintenance personnel that the filter  84  must be replaced. An audible alarm may also sound. At a third vacuum level, as detected by the filter sensor  272 , the motor controller  98  can shut down and disable operation of the motor  74  to prevent damage to the motor  74  or other components of the dryer. Maintenance personnel will then know to replace the filter. In addition, if a non filter related obstruction occurs in the air intake system upstream of the air filter sensor  272  (e.g., bathroom tissue plugging an inlet), and causes the output of the air filter sensor  272  to exceed a predetermined vacuum level, the air filter sensor  272  can trigger a service requirement, indicate a blocked inlet condition, and/or disable operation of the motor  74 . Because the air filter sensor  272  detects the operating characteristics of the air flow within the motor air intake, the sensor provides feedback on the actual condition of the air filter. It will be appreciated that the invention actively monitors the operability of the filter rather than relying upon a predetermined number of cycles to indicate that a filter service is required. 
     In an alternate embodiment, a small tube (not shown) has an inlet end that is in fluid communication with the intake cavity  274  and an outlet end that is vented to atmosphere. In this embodiment, the filter sensor  272  is fluidly connected to the tube. In this embodiment, it will be appreciated that the filter sensor  272  remotely monitors the pressure (vacuum) in the intake cavity. 
     While the preferred embodiments and best modes of utilizing the present invention have been disclosed above, other variations are also possible. For example, the materials, shape, and size of the components may be changed. Additionally, it is understood that a number of modifications may be made in keeping with the spirit of the system  10  of the present invention. For example, the system  10  may include features of the various embodiments set forth in PCT Publication Nos. WO2007/083092 and WO2007/015045 to Dyson, and US Publication Nos. US2008/0109956A1 published on May 15, 2008 and 2006/0185074 published on Aug. 24, 2006, all of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference. Further, a number of lavatory systems like the one shown in  FIG. 1  can be mounted in a row or otherwise joined together as needed. 
     In addition to the above-described features and attributes, the present invention further provides for a lavatory system having one or more of the following features: (1) a color LED display  200  shown in  FIGS. 2 and 5 ; (2) system diagnostics system  202  shown in  FIG. 21 ; (3) lavatory system communications system; (4) active noise cancellation  204  shown in  FIG. 21 ; (5) various color and material combinations; (6) universal power supply; (7) sterilization features; (8) various nozzle designs; (9) plumbed dryer drain; and (10) energy savings. Each of these features will be generally described below. 
     Incorporating a display, and preferably a color LED display, at one or more viewable portion of the lavatory system  10  facilitates the display of various types of information to an onlooker, such as a user or serviceperson. For example, the LED display could be used to display graphic or textual instructions to a user including, but not limited to, how to use the integrated lavatory system  10 . That is, in addition to directing a user through the soaping, washing, and drying stations, the LED display could be used to provide guidance to a user as to how to lather soap, rinse, and dry. Diagnostic information, which will be described below, can be collected regarding use of the lavatory system  10 , and can be displayed on the LED. It is contemplated that the LED display could be of the touch-screen type to facilitate user interaction therewith or include other I/O tools, such as buttons, and the like. It is further contemplated that the LED display could be used to display advertisements and similar consumer-driven notifications. 
     As noted above, the LED display could be used to display diagnostic information, such as to a serviceperson. In this regard, the lavatory system  10  may include an integrated data collection (“diagnostics”) system that collects operational and performance data. For example, the diagnostics system may include sensors and the like that collect data regarding motor run time, soap level, period between use cycles, filter status, water used, water tray level indicator, and the like. Similarly, the LED display could be used to set operational parameters for the lavatory system, such as motor run time, faucet run time, volume of soap dispensed per cycle, and the like. 
     In one embodiment, the diagnostic information is acquired and stored and/or displayed locally, such as on the afore-described LED display. It is also contemplated that the diagnostic data could be transmitted to a centralized facility, such as a maintenance or operations room, for remote monitoring. This would allow service personnel to remotely monitor operation of multiple lavatory systems without having to visually inspect each lavatory system. The diagnostic information could be communicated across wired or wireless communication lines in a conventional manner. 
     One skilled in the art will appreciate that, in general, the greater the blowing force, the quicker hands may be dried in the drying cavity. However, an increased blowing force also increases the amount of noise emitted during a hand-drying cycle. To cancel or reduce the noise generated by the hand dryer, the lavatory system  10  preferably includes noise cancellation features. The noise cancellation features can include, but are not limited to, mechanical and/or electrical noise cancellation devices. For example, an electrical amplifier could be used to provide noise cancellation for select objectionable acoustical frequencies such as the noise signature of the blower motor or high speed air striking the users hands. The material makeup of the lavatory system could include sound-absorbing material or sound-absorbing panels. In this regard, it is contemplated that the lavatory system  10  could be manufactured from numerous materials, or combinations thereof, to provide a sterile yet noise abated washing environment. 
     It is envisioned that the lavatory system  10  described herein could be used in a number of different geographical locations and, as such, be equipped to handle different input voltages. Preferably, the lavatory system has a power circuit that allows the lavatory system  10  to be used universally without requiring significant modifications to the blower motor or any other device in the lavatory system. Also, the blower motor assembly may provide power to all other items on the lavatory system. 
     Reducing bacteria and germ growth in commercial lavatory systems is also important. To this end, the present invention contemplates that one or more sterilization features may be integrated into or used with the lavatory system  10 . For example, ultraviolet (UV) light could be emitted into the drying chamber. The energy from the UV rays could be used to eradicate bacteria and other germs on the user&#39;s hands. Alternately, a separate UV chamber could be added to the lavatory system  10  into which a user slides his hands after drying for an optional sterilization stage. To further reduce contaminants in the drying chamber, it is understood that an air purification device could be used with the lavatory system  10 . For instance, an air filter or air purifier could be placed in or near the air outlet of the blower so that air that is emitted through the nozzles  162 ,  164  is filtered. The purifier could be placed at the air inlet to the blower and the blower speed could be varied such that the hand dryer outlet air is emitted at high speeds when hands are being dried and at lower speeds when in an air purification cycle. A bacteria or germ sensor could also be placed within the drying chamber or elsewhere on the lavatory system. The sensor could be operationally linked with an active air filter or purifier to initiate a filtration cycle. 
     In one embodiment of the invention, the nozzles  162 ,  164  are circular shaped but it is understood that the nozzle openings could have other types of shapes, such as ovals, trident, slots/slits, and the like. It is further contemplated that the nozzle body could have nozzle openings with different or non-uniform shapes and/or sizes. The lavatory system  10  could also be constructed so that the nozzles are oriented or angled at different areas within the drying chamber. Moreover, it is contemplated that the lavatory system  10  may have sensors within the drying chamber that detect the placement of the user&#39;s hands within the chamber. Selected ones of the nozzles could then be selectively opened and closed to direct drying air only through those nozzles that align with the placement of the user&#39;s hands within the drying chamber. 
     In yet another embodiment, the lavatory system  10  has a moisture detector or sensor that measures the wetness of the hands presented to the drying chamber. The run time and/or speed of the blower could be adjusted based on the detected hand wetness to optimize use of the hand dryer. In a similar manner, a sensor could be used to detect how sullied a user&#39;s hands are to control how much soap is dispensed by the soap dispenser and/or how much water is dispensed by the faucet. 
     In one embodiment of the lavatory system  10 , a single drain  42  is used to drain water from the wash basin and drying chamber. Alternately, a second drain could be placed in the drying chamber. 
     Another alternate feature of the lavatory system  10  is the conversion of “wind” to electrical energy. This would allow air flow within the drying chamber to be collected, stored, and subsequently used to drive the blower motor. This could be accomplished by having air outlets within the drying chamber through which the blown air can pass to ultimately drive a small turbine or other device for the conversion of the wind energy to electrical energy. 
     As described herein, a motor driven blower or fan is used to force air into the drying zone of the hand dryer. It is recognized that several types of motors may be used to drive operation of the blower or fan. For example, in one embodiment, the motor is a brushless motor having a nominal input of 120V at 60 Hz. It is understood that the motor could have other operating parameters and that the motor could be designed to be workable with various input voltages, i.e., 230V, such as that commonly found in Europe and Australia. 
     It is preferred that the brushless motor has a pulse width modulated speed control to switch the motor between ON and OFF. It is also preferred that the motor is thermally protected against over-heating, such as may result from a blocked inlet, locked rotor, or heightened ambient temperature. 
     The invention is not limited to a particular motor size but in one embodiment the motor provides 78 cfm of air at 2.8 psi. Preferably, the motor accelerates from zero rpm to operating speed in approximately 350 ms or less. It is also contemplated that different fan types (e.g., axial, bypass, centrifugal compressor, etc.) may be used. An axial or turbine (volute) type pump is also preferred but not required. It is preferred that the fan has either an axial or tangential discharge air flow. It is also preferred that heat from the motor is used to increase the temperature of the air fed to the drying chamber. In addition to heating the air, passing the air about the motor also provides thermal regulation of the motor. 
     Thus, it is specifically intended that the present invention not be limited to the embodiments and illustrations contained herein, but includes modified forms of those embodiments including portions of the embodiments and combinations of elements of different embodiments as come within the scope of the following claims.