Patent Description:
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.

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'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'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'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.

Patent application <CIT> discloses an automatic hand washing device which is provided with photoelectric sensors detecting the presence or absence of a hand by emitting light from a light projection part toward a detection area and receiving the reflected light from the hand to the detection area in a light receiving part.

The present invention is directed to a fixture for a lavatory system that incorporates each of the dispensing features required to wash and dry a user's hands and that does not require additional space per user. Thus, it is a primary object of the invention to provide a multi-function fixture that dispenses soap, water, and air to a user. It is another object of the invention to provide visual indicators to a user to direct the user to each dispensing region on the multi-function fixture to receive soap, water, and air as desired. It is still another object of the invention to provide a multi-function fixture that may be installed within the space of existing wash stations. Yet another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus that has one or more of the characteristics discussed above but which is relatively simple to manufacture and assemble and maintain using a minimum of equipment.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a fixture for a lavatory system as claimed in claim <NUM>.

The lavatory fixture includes a first leg and a second leg, where a first end of each leg is configured to be mounted to an upper surface of a deck for the lavatory fixture. The leg extends upward from the deck and forward toward the basin, such that a second end of each leg is located over the basin of the lavatory fixture. A connecting section extends between the second ends of each leg and is positioned over the basin of the lavatory fixture. The connecting section includes outlets to dispense water, soap, and air to wash a user's hands. The fixture may also include indicators located proximate to each of the outlets to provide an indication to the user as to the location of each outlet and/or to guide a user to the outlets during the hand washing process. It may be that a sensor located near each outlet identifies the presence of a user's hands near the outlet and dispenses water, soap, or air accordingly. A controller within the lavatory fixture may receive inputs from each sensor and activate the appropriate pump, fan, valve, and the like to deliver the desired product at the appropriate outlet. Further, the controller may provide interlocks to prevent, for example, the air and water from being dispensed at the same time.

In accordance with a first example, a lavatory system is provided comprising a basin and a fixture. The basin includes a first side, a second side opposite the first side, a third side extending between the first side and the second side, and a fourth side extending between the first side and the second side. The fixture extends over the basin for dispensing soap, water and air. The fixture includes a first leg, a second leg spaced apart from the first leg, and a connecting section for connecting the first leg to the second leg. There is a first passage in the first leg and a second passage in the second leg. A first tube carries the water through either the first passage or the second passage, and a second tube carries soap through either the first passage or the second passage. The connecting section includes at least one first exit point for dispensing the water, at least one second exit point for dispensing the soap, and at least one third exit point for dispensing the air.

According to another example, the fixture is a single casting, the first leg includes a first base, the second leg includes a second base, and each of the first and second bases are configured to attach to the basin. The lavatory system may include a first hole in the basin for receiving a portion of the first base, and a second hole in the basin for receiving a portion of the second base.

According to still another example, the first passage is configured to maximize an area for air flow through the first leg and includes an inner wall separating the first passage from the connecting section. An air outlet is proximate the inner wall, where the air outlet is the at least one third exit point and the inner wall equalizes the air flow within the first passage by pressure shock when the air flow hits the inner wall thereby bending the air flow generally <NUM>° to point downwardly and exit the air outlet. A nozzle may be located in the air outlet that is configured to straighten the air flow through the air outlet, and the nozzle may include a grid for preventing items from getting into the air outlet.

According to yet other examples, the first passage may include a boss located in the air flow and shaped to minimize air disturbance as the air flow travels over the boss. An aerator may be mounted proximate the at least one first exit point, where the aerator is configured with an entrance for the first tube, and the entrance adds a swirling motion to the water. The connecting section includes an upper surface and a lower surface, and the aerator is nearly flush with the lower surface of the connecting section.

According to still further examples, the lavatory system may include a translucent material for constructing at least a portion of the lower surface of the connecting section so that sensors can sense through the material. The lavatory system may also include a first indicator identifying the at least one first exit point, a second indicator identifying the at least one second exit point, and a third indicator identifying the at least one third exit point. A control circuit enables each of the first indicator, the second indicator, and the third indicator to indicate to a user where to put hands of the user.

According to still another aspect of the invention, a drain channel may extend longitudinally between the first side and the second side of the basin. A rear surface of the drain channel is defined in part by the third side of the basin, and a front surface of the drain channel abuts a lower edge of the fourth side, where the fourth side is sloped downward from a front of the basin toward a rear of the basin. A drain opening extends through a lower surface of the drain channel, and a drain cover is removably mounted to the drain opening. The drain cover defines a surface displaced above and substantially covering the drain channel and extends between the first side and the second side of the basin. The drain cover further includes a plurality of bumpers located at intervals along both a front side and a rear side of the drain cover and, when the drain cover is inserted in the drain channel, the bumpers are positioned between the front side of the drain cover and the front surface of the drain channel and between the rear side of the drain cover and the rear surface of the drain channel.

According to another embodiment of the invention, a fixture for a lavatory system having a deck and a basin in the deck is disclosed. The lavatory system is configured to be mounted to a lavatory wall, and the fixture is operable to dispense soap, water, and air. The fixture includes a first leg, a second leg, and a connecting section. The first leg has a first end, a second end, and a first passage extending between the first end and the second end of the first leg. The first end of the first leg is configured to be mounted to the deck, and the second end of the first leg is configured to be positioned over the basin. The second leg has a first end, a second end, and a second passage extending between the first end and the second end of the second leg. The first end of the second leg is configured to be mounted to the deck, and the second end of the second leg is configured to be positioned over the basin. The connecting section extends between the first leg and the second leg and has a water outlet, a soap outlet and an air outlet. The fixture includes a first tube operable to carry the water through either the first leg or the second leg to the water outlet on the connecting section and a second tube operable to carry the soap through either the first leg or the second leg to the soap outlet on the connecting section. A duct to transmit the air to the air outlet on the connecting section is defined by either the first passage or the second passage.

According to another example, a lavatory fixture for a wash station includes a first and a second generally r-shaped leg. The first generally r-shaped leg includes a first end, a second end, and a first passage extending through the first leg. The first end of the first leg has a first mounting surface and an opening in communication with the first passage and extending through the first mounting surface. The second generally r-shaped leg, displaced from the first leg, includes a first end, a second end, and a second passage extending through the second leg. The first end of the second leg has a second mounting surface and an opening in communication with the second passage and extending through the second mounting surface. The first and second mounting surfaces each engage a surface to mount to the lavatory fixture. The fixture also includes an outlet portion having a first end, a second end, and a plurality of outlets. The first end of the outlet portion is connected to the second end of the first leg, and the first end of the outlet portion has a third passage and an opening establishing fluid communication between the first passage and the third passage. The second end of the outlet portion is connected to the second end of the second leg, and the second end of the outlet portion has a fourth passage and an opening establishing fluid communication between the second passage and the fourth passage. A first outlet, selected from the plurality of outlets, is located proximate the first end of the outlet portion, is in communication with the third passage, and is further in communication with an air blower via the first and third passages to discharge air.

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.

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:.

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.

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>, a lavatory system <NUM> in accordance with one embodiment of the invention is illustrated. The lavatory system <NUM> includes a deck <NUM> that is configured to be mounted to a wall. With reference also to <FIG>. wall mounts <NUM> are secured to the wall and the deck <NUM> is secured to the wall mounts <NUM>. The deck <NUM> has an upper surface <NUM> and an outer periphery <NUM> extending downward from the upper surface <NUM> and around the deck <NUM>. A basin <NUM> is located within the deck <NUM>. According to one embodiment of the invention, the deck <NUM> and the basin <NUM> may be integrally formed as a single unit. According to another embodiment of the invention, the basin <NUM> may be mounted to the deck <NUM>. It is further contemplated that the lavatory system <NUM> may be free-standing, supported by the floor rather than being wall mounted. Rather, than including a wall mount <NUM>, a support frame (not shown) may extend up from the floor, or other surface, on which the lavatory system <NUM> is installed.

The basin <NUM> is a recessed area below the upper surface <NUM> of the deck <NUM> and is configured to receive products dispensed into the lavatory system. According to the illustrated embodiment, the basin <NUM> includes a first side <NUM> (see also <FIG>) and a second side <NUM>, where the second side <NUM> is opposite the first side. Each of the first and second sides <NUM>, <NUM> extend generally orthogonal to and away from the wall on which the lavatory system <NUM> is mounted. The basin <NUM> also includes a third side <NUM> extending downward from an upper edge which joins the upper surface <NUM> of the deck <NUM> along the rear of the basin and further extends between the first side <NUM> and the second side <NUM>. With reference also to <FIG>, the third side <NUM> extends downward and the lower end of the third side forms, in part, a drain channel <NUM> in the bottom of the basin <NUM>. The basin <NUM> further includes a fourth side <NUM> extending downward from an upper edge which joins the upper surface <NUM> of the deck <NUM> along the front of the basin and also extends between the first side <NUM> and the second side <NUM>. The fourth side <NUM> of the basin <NUM> is sloped inward and downward from the front edge of the basin to a front edge of the drain channel <NUM>. Although the basin <NUM> is described in detail with respect to the illustrated embodiment, it is understood that the basin <NUM> 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 <NUM> includes a housing <NUM> located below the deck <NUM> and extending around the lower portion of the lavatory system <NUM>. According to the illustrated embodiment, the housing <NUM> includes a first side <NUM> and a second side <NUM>, where the second side is opposite the first side. A rear edge of each of the first side <NUM> and the second side <NUM> abuts the wall to which the lavatory system <NUM> is mounted. Each of the first side <NUM> and the second side <NUM> extend forward, generally orthogonal to the wall. A front surface <NUM> of the housing extends downward and to the rear from a lower surface <NUM> of the deck <NUM>. The front surface <NUM> extends the height of each of the first and second sides <NUM>, <NUM>. According to one embodiment of the invention, each of the first side <NUM>, second side <NUM>, and front surface <NUM> extend to the floor. According to another embodiment of the invention, the each of the first side <NUM>, second side <NUM>, and front surface <NUM> extend to some height above the floor. The front surface <NUM> is sloped to the rear from where it abuts the lower surface <NUM> of the deck <NUM>. It is contemplated that the housing <NUM> may include a bottom surface (not shown) if the housing docs not extend to the floor. Optionally, the housing may be open on the bottom as defined by the periphery of the first side <NUM>, second side <NUM>. front surface <NUM> and wall to which the lavatory system <NUM> is mounted. The housing <NUM> encloses the components of the lavatory system <NUM> located below the deck to provide a measure of protection to the components and to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance to the lavatory system <NUM>. Although the housing <NUM> is described in detail with respect to the illustrated embodiment, it is understood that the housing <NUM> 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 <NUM> further includes a drain system <NUM> extending longitudinally across the width of the basin <NUM>. With reference also to <FIG>, the drain system <NUM> includes a drain channel <NUM> and a drain cap <NUM>. According to the illustrated embodiment, the drain channel <NUM> is generally u-shaped. The drain channel <NUM> has a rear wall <NUM> and a front wall <NUM> extending the width of the basin <NUM>. The rear wall <NUM> of the drain channel <NUM> may be coplanar with the third side <NUM> of the basin <NUM> and form a continuous surface. Optionally, the drain channel <NUM> may be offset from the third side <NUM> of the basin, forming a channel in a lower surface (not shown) of the basin <NUM>. The drain channel <NUM> includes a lower surface <NUM> which also extends the width of the basin between the rear wall <NUM> and the front wall <NUM>. An opening <NUM> in the lower surface <NUM> of the drain channel <NUM> allows waste water to exist the basin <NUM> into a drainpipe <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>). The periphery of the drain opening <NUM> includes a pair of notches <NUM>, where a first notch <NUM> is located to the rear of the drain opening <NUM> and a second notch is located to the front of the drain opening <NUM>. Each notch <NUM> is configured to receive a tab <NUM> from the drain cap <NUM> as will be discussed in more detail below.

The drain cap <NUM> is configured to be removably mounted within the drain system <NUM>. The drain cap <NUM> includes a front surface <NUM>, a rear surface <NUM>, and a top surface <NUM>, where the top surface <NUM> spans between the front surface <NUM> and the rear surface <NUM> and each of the front. rear, and top surfaces extend the width of the drain channel <NUM>. Each of the front surface <NUM> and the rear surface <NUM> have a tab <NUM> extending downward from the respective surface. The tab <NUM> includes a first surface <NUM>, which is generally coplanar with and protrudes downward from the corresponding front or rear surface and a second surface <NUM>. which is generally orthogonal to and protrudes outward from the first surface <NUM>. Preferably, the drain cap <NUM> and the tabs <NUM> arc constructed of a sheet material, such as a stainless steel. The thickness of the sheet material provides sufficient rigidity that the drain cap <NUM> retains its desired shape if removed from the drain channel <NUM>. However, the width of each tab <NUM> and the thickness of the sheet material for the drain cap <NUM> allows the tab <NUM> to deflect inward when a force is applied. Such a force may be applied, for example, when inserting the drain cap <NUM> into the drain channel. Each tab <NUM> is deflected inward as the drain cap <NUM> is inserted into the drain channel and as each tab <NUM> is inserted through the notch <NUM> in the periphery of the drain opening <NUM>. The height of the first surface <NUM> of the tab <NUM> is equal to or greater than a thickness of the lower surface <NUM> of the drain channel <NUM>. As a result, when the drain cap <NUM> continues to be inserted, the tab <NUM> extends through the lower surface <NUM>. The material from which the tab <NUM> is made is resilient such that it returns to its original position once the tabs <NUM> are fully through the opening <NUM> in the drain channel <NUM>. The second surface <NUM> of each tab <NUM> extends under the lower surface <NUM> of the drain channel, positively retaining the drain cap <NUM> within the drain channel <NUM>. Applying pressure to each tab <NUM> such that the tab is again biased inward a sufficient distance that the second surface <NUM> is moved from beneath the lower surface <NUM> and within the periphery of the opening <NUM> of the drain channel <NUM> allows the drain cap <NUM> to be removed from the drain channel <NUM>.

It is further contemplated that each of the front surface <NUM> and the rear surface <NUM> of the drain cap <NUM> include a series of bumpers <NUM> affixed to the surface and spaced out along the length of the drain cap. The bumpers <NUM> fit between the front surface <NUM> of the drain cap <NUM> and the front wall <NUM> of the drain channel <NUM> and between the rear surface <NUM> of the drain cap <NUM> and the rear wall <NUM> of the drain channel <NUM>. The bumpers <NUM> define a press fit between the surfaces and help align the drain cap <NUM> within the drain channel <NUM>. In addition, because the drain cap <NUM> is preferably made from a metal material, such as stainless steel, and the basin <NUM> and drain channel <NUM> are preferably made from a synthetic resin material, stone material, or combination thereof, the bumpers <NUM> aid in preventing damage to the drain channel <NUM> from the drain cap <NUM> as the cap is inserted into or removed from the channel.

Further, the top surface <NUM> of the drain cap <NUM> may be configured to help guide the direction of airflow dispensed from fixture <NUM>. As will be discussed in more detail below, the fixture <NUM><NUM> is operative to dispense air flow into the basin <NUM> to dry a user's hands after washing. With further reference to <FIG>, a direction of airflow is indicated by arrows in the figures. The air is dispensed downward from the fixture <NUM> where it first hits the fourth side <NUM> of the basin <NUM> which is sloped downward and to the rear of the basin <NUM>. The air flow generally follows the slope of the fourth side <NUM> toward the drain channel <NUM>.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the drain cap <NUM> may be configured to guide the direction of the airflow toward the corners of the basin <NUM>. With reference to <FIG>. the from surface <NUM> of the drain cap <NUM> may be longer than the rear surface <NUM>. As a result, the top surface <NUM> is sloped downward from the front wall <NUM> to the rear wall <NUM> of the drain channel <NUM>. A first angle, α, defined between the rear surface <NUM> and the top surface <NUM> of the drain cap <NUM> is an obtuse angle. A second angle, β, defined between the front surface <NUM> and the top surface <NUM> of the drain cap <NUM> is an acute angle. As shown in <FIG>, the drain cap <NUM> may be configured such that the top surface <NUM> of the drain cap <NUM> is coplanar with the fourth side <NUM> of the basin <NUM>. The air continues to flow from the fourth side <NUM> of the basin along the top surface <NUM> of the drain cap <NUM> until it intersects with the third side <NUM> of the basin <NUM>. The air is then deflected both to the left and the right along the third side <NUM> of the basin and along the top surface <NUM> of the drain cap <NUM> toward the first and second sides <NUM>, <NUM> of the basin <NUM>.

According to another embodiment of the invention, the drain cap <NUM> may be configured to guide the direction of the airflow upward along the third side <NUM> of the basin <NUM>. With reference to <FIG>, the front surface <NUM> of the drain cap <NUM> may be shorter than the rear surface <NUM>. As a result, the top surface <NUM> is sloped upward from the front wall <NUM> to the rear wall <NUM> of the drain channel <NUM>. A first angle, α, defined between the rear surface <NUM> and the top surface <NUM> of the drain cap <NUM> is an acute angle. A second angle, β, defined between the front surface <NUM> and the top surface <NUM> of the drain cap <NUM> is an obtuse angle. According to one embodiment of the invention, the drain cap <NUM> is configured such that the top surface <NUM> of the drain cap <NUM> angles upward at an angle similar to the downward angle of the fourth side <NUM> of the basin <NUM>. As the air continues to flow from the fourth side <NUM> of the basin onto the top surface <NUM> of the drain cap <NUM> it is deflected upward. As the airflow intersects the third side <NUM> of the basin <NUM>, the air is further deflected both to the left and the right along the third side <NUM> of the basin. Thus, rather than traveling along the top surface <NUM> of the drain cap <NUM>. the air flow travels along the third side <NUM> in a generally upward and outward manner, as illustrated in <FIG> toward the first and second sides <NUM>. <NUM> of the basin <NUM>.

Turning next to <FIG>, another embodiment of a drain system <NUM> is illustrated. In this embodiment, the depth of the drain channel <NUM> is increased. The front wall <NUM> and the rear wall <NUM> are tapered inward toward the channel <NUM>, such that when the drain cap <NUM> is inserted into the channel <NUM>. the top surface <NUM> of the drain cap <NUM> aligns in the manner discussed above. Optionally, a ridge or series of tabs may be molded along the front and rear walls <NUM>, <NUM> on which the front and rear surfaces, <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively, of the drain cap may be supported.

A drain plate <NUM> is inserted into the drain channel <NUM> to divide the channel <NUM> into two chambers. An upper chamber <NUM> is defined between the drain cap <NUM> and the drain plate <NUM>, and a lower chamber <NUM> is defined between the drain plate <NUM> and the lower surface <NUM> of the channel <NUM>. A series of supports <NUM> are integrally formed in the rear and front walls <NUM>, <NUM> of the drain channel <NUM> to support the drain plate <NUM>. Each support <NUM> extends from the lower surface <NUM> of the channel <NUM> and for a portion of the height of the channel <NUM>. Each support protrudes into the channel <NUM> from the rear and front walls <NUM>. <NUM> for a short distance, sufficient to support the drain plate <NUM> yet allowing water to flow along the channel <NUM>. The width of the drain plate <NUM> is generally equal to the width of the channel at the top of the supports <NUM>, such that the drain plate <NUM> may be set into the channel and rest on each of the supports <NUM>.

The drain plate <NUM> further includes a series of openings <NUM> spaced longitudinally along the plate <NUM> to allow water to flow from the upper chamber <NUM> to the lower chamber <NUM>. According to the illustrated embodiment, each opening <NUM> is located along on outer edge of the drain plate <NUM> and extends longitudinally along the drain plate <NUM>. The openings <NUM> may be spaced at intervals alternately to the supports <NUM>, such that the water may flow from the upper chamber <NUM> through the openings, between adjacent supports <NUM>, and into the lower chamber <NUM>.

The lower chamber <NUM> is in fluid communication with the drain opening <NUM>. Thus, when water is dispensed into the basin <NUM>, it runs down the fourth side <NUM> of the basin to the drain channel. The water flows around each edge of the drain cap <NUM> and into the upper chamber <NUM> while other debris is kept out of the drain channel by the drain cap <NUM>. The water then flows along the upper surface of the drain plate <NUM> toward the drain opening. As the water flows along the upper surface of the drain plate <NUM>, it falls through one of the openings <NUM> to the lower chamber <NUM>. Once in the lower chamber <NUM>. the water flows toward the drain opening <NUM> and out of the basin <NUM> to the drainpipe <NUM>.

Turning next to <FIG>, another embodiment of the drain system <NUM> is illustrated. In this embodiment, the drain system <NUM> again includes two chambers to direct water to the drain opening <NUM>. A first chamber <NUM> is defined by a drain channel <NUM> and drain cap <NUM> substantially the same as that discussed above with respect to <FIG>. A second chamber <NUM> is integrally formed within a lower surface of the basin <NUM>. According to the illustrated embodiment, a pipe <NUM> is integrally molded along the rear portion of and below the basin <NUM>. It is contemplated that the pipe <NUM> is positioned below the drain channel <NUM> and overmolded such that it is integrally formed with the basin <NUM>. Optionally, a second housing member may be secured to the bottom of the basin <NUM> and along the length of the drain channel <NUM>. The second housing member may be configured to hold the pipe <NUM> below the drain channel <NUM> as discussed above.

Whether the pipe <NUM> is integrally molded or separately mounted below the basin <NUM>. a series of openings <NUM> are formed through the lower surface <NUM> of the drain channel <NUM> and into the pipe <NUM>. The openings <NUM> may be formed, for example, by drilling holes through the lower surface <NUM> and into the pipe <NUM>. The openings <NUM> establish fluid communication between the first chamber <NUM> and the second chamber <NUM>. Thus, when water is dispensed into the basin <NUM>, it runs down the fourth side <NUM> of the basin to the drain channel. The water flows around each edge of the drain cap <NUM> and into the first chamber <NUM> while other debris is kept out of the drain channel by the drain cap <NUM>. The water then flows along the lower surface <NUM> of the first chamber <NUM> toward the drain opening <NUM>. As the water flows along the lower surface <NUM> of the first chamber <NUM>, a portion of the water falls through one of the openings <NUM> to the second chamber <NUM>. The portion of the water in the second chamber <NUM> also flows toward the drain opening <NUM>. Whether flowing in the first chamber <NUM> or the second chamber <NUM>, the water reaches the drain opening <NUM> and flows out of the basin <NUM> to the drainpipe <NUM>.

Although the drain channel <NUM> and drain cap <NUM> are described in detail with respect to the illustrated embodiments, it is understood that the drain channel <NUM> and drain cap <NUM> may take various shapes, where the drain cap <NUM> remains complementary to the drain channel <NUM> 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 <FIG>. die basin <NUM> may further be configured to recirculate at least a portion of the airflow dispensed from the fixture <NUM>. In addition to directing the airflow to the sides or up the rear of the basin <NUM>, the basin <NUM> may include a ridge <NUM> protruding over the basin <NUM> to collect a portion of the airflow. The ridge may extend around the first side <NUM>, the second side <NUM>, or the third side <NUM> of the basin to capture air travelling up the side or rear of the basin <NUM>. Optionally, a channel <NUM> may be formed on the rear side of the basin <NUM> which directs the airflow back down the outside of the basin <NUM> under the deck <NUM>. The airflow may be channeled to a return duct <NUM> which in turn provides air to the input of the fan <NUM>. Preferably, a filter <NUM> is included between the return duct <NUM> and the input to the fan <NUM> to remove water, soap, dirt, and other contaminants from the airflow prior to returning the air to the fan <NUM>.

According to another embodiment of the invention, the basin <NUM> may include an opening in the side. The opening may include a series of louvers <NUM> to prevent water dispensed from the fixture <NUM> from entering the opening. The airflow travelling up the sides may enter the opening. Similar to the embodiment including a ridge <NUM>. a channel <NUM> may be provided on the rear of the basin and the airflow directed back toward the fan <NUM>.

The lavatory system <NUM> also includes a multi-function fixture <NUM> located at each band washing station for the lavatory system <NUM>. According to the illustrated embodiment, the lavatory system <NUM> includes two wash stations. It is contemplated that the lavatory system <NUM> may be configured with a single wash station and have just one fixture <NUM> or, optionally, the lavatory system <NUM> may be configured with three or more wash stations, where each wash station has a separate fixture <NUM>. The width of the lavatory system will vary according to the number of wash stations present.

Turning next to <FIG>, a multi-function fixture <NUM> for the lavatory system <NUM> according to one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The fixture <NUM> includes a pair of legs <NUM>. When viewed from the front a first leg 110a is positioned to the right side of the fixture <NUM> and a second leg 110a is positioned to the left side of the fixture <NUM>. The exterior of each leg 110a, 110b is mirrored about a center axis <NUM> of the fixture <NUM>. For convenience, therefore, a single leg <NUM> will be discussed in detail, where the discussion will be equally applicable to the right leg 110a and the left leg 110b.

According to the illustrated embodiment, the leg <NUM> has a first end <NUM> configured to be mounted to the deck <NUM> and a second end <NUM> extending over the basin <NUM>. A mounting surface <NUM> on the first end <NUM> of the leg <NUM> engages the upper surface <NUM> of the deck <NUM>. The leg <NUM> includes a generally rectangular cross-section where the cross-section decreases in size between the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM> of the leg <NUM><NUM>. When mounted to the deck <NUM>, the leg <NUM> slopes forward as it extends upward from the deck <NUM>. From a side-view, the leg <NUM> is generally r-shaped. The leg <NUM> extends upwards from the deck <NUM> and forwards toward the basin <NUM>. After extending for a height, H, a bend <NUM> in the leg causes the leg to protrude in a generally horizontal plane for a length. until the second end <NUM> of the leg is positioned over the basin <NUM>.

With reference also to <FIG>, the first end <NUM> of each leg <NUM> is configured to be mounted to the deck <NUM>. An opening <NUM> extends through the mounting surface <NUM> and is in communication with a passage <NUM> within the leg <NUM>. A base <NUM> is received within the opening <NUM> and secures the fixture <NUM> to the deck <NUM>. The base <NUM> also includes a passage <NUM> extending therethrough which is in fluid communication with the passage <NUM> in the leg <NUM>. According to the illustrated embodiment, the base <NUM> includes a first end <NUM> configured to be inserted into the leg <NUM> and a second end <NUM> configured to be inserted into an opening in the deck <NUM>. The opening <NUM> in the leg <NUM> includes a threaded inner periphery that is complementary to a threaded outer periphery of the first end <NUM> of the base <NUM>. The base <NUM> may, therefore, be rotatably inserted into the opening <NUM> such that the threads engage and positively retain the base <NUM> to the leg <NUM>. It is contemplated that the base <NUM> may alternately be secured to the leg <NUM>, for example, via a snap fit or other suitable securing method. According to another embodiment, the base <NUM> is integrally molded with the leg <NUM> such that a portion of the leg <NUM> extends through the opening to secure the fixture <NUM> to the deck <NUM>. A second section <NUM> of the base <NUM> is displaced longitudinally along the base <NUM> such that is configured to be located, at least in part, below the deck <NUM>. The second section <NUM> includes a threaded outer surface to receive a nut <NUM>, and an upper surface <NUM> of the nut <NUM> is configured to engage the lower surface of the deck <NUM>. To secure the fixture <NUM> to the deck <NUM>, the base <NUM> is affixed to each leg <NUM> and inserted through the opening in the deck <NUM>. The nut <NUM> is threaded onto the base from below the deck such that the upper surface <NUM> of the nut <NUM> and the mounting surface <NUM> of the leg <NUM> engage opposite surfaces of the deck <NUM> and secure the fixture <NUM> to the deck <NUM>.

A connecting section <NUM> extends between the second ends <NUM> of each leg <NUM>. The connecting section <NUM> has a first end <NUM> connected to the second end 114a of the first leg 110a and a second end <NUM> connected to the second end 114b of the second leg 110b. The cross-section of the first end <NUM> of the connecting section <NUM> is the same as the cross-section of the second end 114a of the first leg 110a and the cross-section of the second end <NUM> of the connecting section <NUM> is the same as the cross-section of the second end 114b of the second log 110b. Consequently, the fixture <NUM> appears as a continuous unit as it transitions between each leg <NUM> and the connecting section <NUM>. Further, it is contemplated that at least a portion of the first leg 110a. the second leg 110b. and the connecting section <NUM> may be cast, or otherwise manufactured, as a single unit. As a result, despite identifying ends of the legs <NUM> and ends of the connecting section <NUM>, the locations of the ends are for illustrative purposes and may be moved axially along the leg or along the connecting section <NUM> without deviating from the scope of the invention.

The connecting section <NUM> includes multiple outlets for dispensing product over the basin <NUM> of the lavatory system <NUM>. A first outlet <NUM> is operable to dispense soap, a second outlet <NUM> is operable to dispense water, and a third outlet <NUM> is operable to dispense air. The outlets <NUM>. <NUM>, <NUM> are spaced apart along the connecting section <NUM> such that a user's hands move along the connecting section <NUM> between outlets during the washing process. Each leg <NUM> includes a passage <NUM> 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 <NUM> up through the passage <NUM> in one of the legs <NUM> the respective outlet. The passage <NUM> within one of the legs <NUM> is configured as an air duct to, at least in part, convey air from a blower located below the deck <NUM> to the air outlet. With reference also to <FIG>, exemplary sectional views of the passage <NUM> in each leg are illustrated. The passage 120b in the second leg 110b has a maximum sectional area to provide room for the tube <NUM> carrying soap and the tube <NUM> carrying water to be run through the passage 120b. The passage 120a in the first leg 110a has a sectional area closely corresponding to the passage <NUM> in the base 130a. By having the sectional areas of the passage 120a in the leg 110a and the passage <NUM> in the base 130a correspond to each other, the turbulence of the air flow is reduced as the air passes from the base 130a into the leg 110a. The passage 120a of the leg <NUM> then forms a duct through which the air is conveyed to the air outlet <NUM>.

The connecting section <NUM> may also include indicators to a user identifying the location of each outlet. According to the illustrated embodiment, openings <NUM> are located along the front edge of the connecting section <NUM> through which an indicator may be displayed. A multi-color light-emitting diode (LED) <NUM>, or red-green-blue LED array, (see also <FIG>) is located behind each opening <NUM>. 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 <NUM>. The LED <NUM> may emit different colors according to operation or flash to direct a user'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 <NUM>. The soap reservoir <NUM> and soap pump <NUM> are represented in block diagram form in <FIG>. The soap reservoir <NUM> may include a level detection switch <NUM>, such as a float switch, which generates a level detection signal <NUM>, provided to a control circuit <NUM>, corresponding to the amount of soap remaining in the reservoir <NUM>. The pump <NUM> is activated by one or more sensors <NUM> located in the fixture <NUM> detecting the presence of a user's hands by the soap outlet <NUM>. The pump <NUM> draws soap from the reservoir <NUM> and into a tube <NUM> connected between the pump <NUM> and the soap outlet <NUM>. The tube is run inside the passage <NUM> in either the first leg 110a or the second leg 110b and into the connecting section <NUM> of the fixture. In the connecting section <NUM>. the tube <NUM> is fit onto a nozzle <NUM> which extends through the outlet <NUM>. The soap is discharged from the nozzle <NUM> through the outlet <NUM> onto a user's hands.

The system for dispensing water includes one or more inlet lines <NUM>, connected to a water supply, one or more valves <NUM>, and one or more outlet lines <NUM> to supply water to the water outlet <NUM>. The inlet line <NUM> 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 <NUM> that combines cold and hot water proportionally to supply water at a desired temperature. Optionally, the valve <NUM> may be a mixing valve which includes a first inlet line <NUM> from the cold water supply and a second inlet line <NUM> from a hot water supply. A signal <NUM> from the control circuit <NUM> may control the valve <NUM> 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 <NUM> from the valve <NUM> is connected via a second tube <NUM> to the water outlet <NUM>. An aerator <NUM> may be provided within the water outlet <NUM> includes a water inlet <NUM> to which the outlet line <NUM> from the valve <NUM> is connected.

Referring next to <FIG>. one embodiment of the aerator <NUM> is illustrated. The aerator <NUM> includes an upper housing <NUM> and a lower housing <NUM>. According to the illustrated embodiment, the upper housing <NUM> is integrally formed with a removable plate <NUM> that may be inserted into and removed from an opening on the lower surface of the connecting section <NUM> of the fixture. The upper housing <NUM> includes two generally cylindrical chambers. A first, intake chamber <NUM> is formed in the upper portion of the upper housing <NUM>. A first wall segment <NUM> of the upper housing <NUM> extends downward from an upper surface <NUM> of the upper housing <NUM>. The first wall segment <NUM> may join the upper surface <NUM> at a generally curved edge that extends around the periphery of the upper housing <NUM>. The intake chamber <NUM> has a first diameter defined by the inner periphery of the first wall segment <NUM>. A second, outlet chamber <NUM> is formed in the lower portion of the upper housing <NUM>. A second wall segment <NUM> extends downward from the first wall segment <NUM> to a lower edge <NUM> of the upper housing <NUM>. The second wall segment <NUM> has a diameter greater than the diameter of the first wall segment <NUM>. and a generally curved edge joins the first and second wall segments <NUM>, <NUM>. The lower surface of the upper housing <NUM> is generally open and the lower edge <NUM> defines a generally circular opening into which the lower housing <NUM> may be inserted. The inner surface <NUM> of the second wall segment <NUM> is threaded and is configured to receive a complementary thread on the outer periphery <NUM> of the lower housing <NUM>. According to other embodiments of the invention, it is contemplated that the lower housing <NUM> may be secured to the upper housing <NUM> by other methods, including, for example, by a snap fit, cam lock, pin, screw, or other suitable retainer.

The water inlet <NUM> extends outward from the first wall segment <NUM> and defines a fluid communication path between the second tube <NUM>, through which the water flows, and the intake chamber <NUM>. The water inlet <NUM> is generally cylindrical and includes a passage <NUM> extending axially through the inlet <NUM>. The second tube <NUM> may be press fit onto a first end <NUM> of the water inlet <NUM> and the second end <NUM> of the water inlet <NUM> is integrally formed with the first wall segment <NUM>. Preferably, the second end <NUM> of the water inlet <NUM> joins one side of the upper housing <NUM>. Water flowing through the second tube <NUM> enters the passage <NUM> and exits along the inner periphery of the first wall segment <NUM>. The water is supplied at a sufficient pressure such that the water follows the inner periphery of the first wall segment <NUM> swirling around the interior of the intake chamber <NUM>.

The lower housing <NUM> is a generally cylindrical disk configured to be inserted into the upper housing <NUM>. As previously indicated, the outer periphery <NUM> of the lower housing <NUM> is threaded such that the lower housing <NUM> may rotatably engage the complementary threaded inner surface <NUM> of the upper housing <NUM>. The disk includes an upper surface <NUM> and a lower surface <NUM>. opposite the upper surface. A plurality of passages <NUM> extend between the upper surface <NUM> and the lower surface <NUM>. The upper surface <NUM> is sloped upward from an outer edge to the center of the upper surface <NUM>. forming a generally conical surface. Multiple nozzles <NUM> protrude downward from the lower surface <NUM>. One of the passages <NUM> extends through each nozzle <NUM>, and the nozzles <NUM> define the water outlet <NUM> for the fixture <NUM>. Because the water enters the intake chamber <NUM> 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 <NUM> through each of the nozzles <NUM> with a generally uniform pressure and flow.

Although the aerator <NUM> has been described according to the illustrated embodiment, it is contemplated that the aerator <NUM> may be formed utilizing other members without deviating from the scope of the invention. For example, the aerator <NUM> may be formed as a single housing with the upper housing <NUM> and lower housings <NUM> integrally formed and either fixedly or removably mounted within the connecting section <NUM> of the fixture <NUM>.

The system for dispensing air includes a fan <NUM> located below the deck <NUM> operable to deliver air to the air outlet <NUM>. According to one embodiment of the invention, the fan <NUM> 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 <NUM> draws air in through an air inlet located within the housing <NUM> under the deck <NUM>. A filter <NUM> may be provided at the inlet to capture contaminants present in the air prior to air entering the air inlet for the fan <NUM>. With reference also to <FIG>, an air duct <NUM> connects an outlet of the fan <NUM> to the passage <NUM> in the base <NUM>. which is, in turn, connected to a passage <NUM> within the leg <NUM> of the fixture <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>. <FIG> the passage <NUM> serves as a continuation of the air duct <NUM> between the fan <NUM> and the air outlet <NUM>. The surface of the passage <NUM> is preferably smooth to minimize turbulence of the air flow through the passage. A boss <NUM> may be provided between opposing surfaces of the passage <NUM> to provide improved rigidity of the fixture <NUM>. The boss <NUM> includes a front end <NUM>. indicating it receives the air flow first, and a rear end <NUM>, indicating it receives the air flow last. The boss <NUM> widens toward the middle and tapers toward each end, such that each of the front and rear ends <NUM> and <NUM> are preferably narrow and rounded to minimize disturbance of the air flow through the passage <NUM>.

An inner wall <NUM> is provided beyond the air outlet <NUM> to terminate the passage <NUM> and separate the air passage from other interior regions of the fixture <NUM>, The inner wall <NUM> 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 <NUM> by pressure shock when the air flow hits the inner wall <NUM>. The air outlet <NUM> is located on a lower surface of the fixture <NUM> prior to the inner wall <NUM> with respect to the direction of air flow. The air outlet <NUM> includes a nozzle <NUM> with a grid <NUM> defined in the nozzle. Each member of the grid <NUM> is in a generally vertical plane to direct the airflow downward from the nozzle <NUM>. The air flow is, therefore, directed generally ninety degrees downward and out the air outlet <NUM> after hitting the inner wall <NUM>. The duct <NUM> from the fan and the passages <NUM>, <NUM> within the base <NUM> and leg <NUM>, therefore, deliver air to the air outlet <NUM> to dry a user's hands.

Control signals <NUM> pass between the fan <NUM> and a control circuit <NUM>. The control signals <NUM> may include, for example, a start command, a stop command, a speed command, or a combination thereof to control operation of the fan <NUM>. Feedback signals may also be provided from the fan <NUM> to a control circuit <NUM> 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's hands.

In operation, a control system <NUM> is provided that manages operation of the lavatory system <NUM>. Referring next to <FIG>, the control system <NUM> includes a control circuit <NUM> mounted to the lavatory system <NUM>. According to one embodiment of the invention, the control circuit <NUM> is provided on a circuit board mounted in an enclosure below the deck <NUM> and within the housing <NUM> of the lavatory system <NUM> to protect the control circuit from being splashed by water. Optionally, the control circuit <NUM> may be potted to provide further protection from moisture in a lavatory. The control circuit <NUM> includes memory <NUM> configured to store operating parameters for the lavatory system <NUM> and instructions for executing on a processor <NUM> to control operation of the lavatory system <NUM>. It is contemplated that the memory <NUM> may be volatile, non-volatile, or a combination thereof and may be a single or multiple devices. The processor <NUM> is operable to execute the instructions stored in memory <NUM> to achieve a desired operation of the lavatory system <NUM>. It is contemplated that the processor <NUM> may be a single device or multiple devices. The control circuit <NUM> 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 <NUM> may be located entirely on a single circuit board and located within a single enclosure or, optionally, portions of the control circuit <NUM> may be distributed about the lavatory system <NUM> without deviating from the scope of the invention.

The control circuit <NUM> receives feedback signals <NUM> from sensors <NUM> in the fixture <NUM> indicating a user's hands are present for washing and/or drying proximate the fixture <NUM>. According to the illustrated embodiment, four sensors <NUM> are provided in the fixture <NUM> to control the soap, water, and air delivery from the fixture <NUM>. According to another embodiment, it is contemplated that three sensors <NUM> may be provided where a single sensor <NUM> is located proximate to each outlet. According to still another embodiment more than four sensors <NUM> may be provided. It is contemplated that each sensor <NUM> is located within the connecting section <NUM> of the fixture and above the lower wall of the connecting section <NUM>. A portion of the lower wall may include an opening <NUM> 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's hands and received at the sensor <NUM> to detect the presence of the user'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 <NUM> 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 <NUM> may emit a signal capable of passing through the housing of the connecting section <NUM>. For example, a magnetic field may be generated and a disturbance in the field due to the presence of a user's hands may be detected. Still other sensing technology, such as capacitive sensing of a user's hands may be utilized without deviating from the scope of the invention.

Including more sensors <NUM> than outlets allows the control circuit <NUM> to determine information about the location and/or direction of approach for a user's hands in addition to just being located proximate to an outlet According to the illustrated embodiment, the two inner sensors <NUM> may be located on either side of the water outlet <NUM>. As a user's hands approach the water outlet <NUM> after receiving soap, one of the inner sensor <NUM> located on the same side of the water outlet <NUM> as the soap outlet <NUM> is activated first. If a user's hands are approaching the water outlet <NUM> from the hand dryer side of the fixture <NUM> the other inner sensor <NUM> is activated first. When the user's hands area located under the water outlet <NUM>. both of the inner sensors <NUM> 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 <NUM> is located near the soap outlet <NUM> to detect a user's hands located below the outlet <NUM>. When a user's hands are located beneath the soap outlet <NUM>, the sensor <NUM> generates a feedback signal <NUM> to the control circuit indicating their presence. In response to receiving the feedback signal <NUM>. the control circuit <NUM> may flash or change the color of the LED <NUM> for the soap outlet <NUM> to provide an indication to the user that the hands were detected by the soap outlet <NUM>. The control circuit <NUM> may also generate a control signal <NUM> to the soap pump <NUM>, causing it to activate such that soap is dispensed. The soap pump <NUM> may be energized for a predefined period of time or execute one or more fixed pumping cycles, drawing soap from the reservoir <NUM> and up through the soap tube <NUM> to the soap nozzle <NUM> where it is dispensed onto the user's hands. It is further contemplated that the sensor <NUM> proximate the soap outlet <NUM> may be configured to detect a user's hands for only a short distance below the fixture <NUM>. For example, the user's hand may need to be within three inches or within two inches of the sensor <NUM> to detect their presence. This detection distance is preferably configurable within the sensor <NUM> and may be set less than the detection distance of the water outlet as will be discussed in more detail below.

The controller <NUM> may further be configured to interlock the soap dispenser based on other activity at the fixture <NUM>. 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 <NUM> for an extended period of time or if, for example, a foreign object falls in the basin <NUM> under the fixture <NUM> proximate the soap outlet <NUM>.

A level detection sensor <NUM>, such as a float switch, may be provided within the reservoir. The level detection sensor <NUM> generates a feedback signal <NUM> to the control signal when the soap level is low and requires refilling. The control circuit <NUM> may activate the LED <NUM> proximate the soap outlet <NUM> in a manner indicating the soap level is low. For example, the control circuit <NUM> may flash the LED <NUM> 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 <NUM> is located near the water outlet <NUM> to detect a user's hands located below the outlet <NUM>. When a user's hands are located beneath the water outlet <NUM>, the sensor <NUM> generates a feedback signal <NUM> to die control circuit indicating their presence. In response to receiving the feedback signal <NUM>, the control circuit <NUM> may flash or change the color of the LED <NUM> for the water outlet <NUM> to provide an indication to the user that the hands were detected by the water outlet <NUM>. The control circuit <NUM> may also generate a control signal <NUM> to the water valve <NUM>, causing it to activate such that water is dispensed. The water valve <NUM> may be energized for a predefined time or may remain on while the user's hands are detected under the water outlet <NUM>.

It is further contemplated that the sensor <NUM> proximate the water outlet <NUM> may be configured to detect a user's hands below the fixture <NUM> for a distance equal to the height of the fixture <NUM> above the basin <NUM>. As a result, the user's hands will be detected at any height between the water outlet <NUM> and the basin <NUM>. This detection distance is preferably configurable within the sensor <NUM> 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 <NUM>. the hand, arm, or a portion thereof may move under the soap outlet <NUM>. However, a user typically positions their hands at a distance below the water outlet <NUM> to avoid water splashing or spraying from their hands or from making contact with the fixture <NUM> while rinsing the hands. The distance users typically position their hands is greater than the distance at which the sensor <NUM> proximate the soap outlet is set for detection. As a result, even if a portion of the user's hands or arm moves under the sensor <NUM> for the soap while using the water outlet <NUM>. additional soap is not dispensed.

The control circuit <NUM> may further be configured to provide interlocks in dispensing water from the fixture <NUM>. 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 <NUM><NUM> and stop dispensing water to dispensing air. A maximum duration may also be configured for which the water outlet <NUM> may dispense water without requiring the user to remove and reinsert their hands beneath the water outlet <NUM>. This prevents continued dispensing of water if the user leaves their hands under the water outlet <NUM> for an extended period of time or if, for example, a foreign object falls in the basin <NUM> under the fixture <NUM> proximate the water outlet <NUM>.

Turning then to control of the air system, at least one sensor <NUM> is located near the air outlet <NUM> to detect a user's hands located below the outlet <NUM>. When a user's hands are located beneath the air outlet <NUM>, the sensor <NUM> generates a feedback signal <NUM> to the control circuit indicating their presence. In response to receiving the feedback signal <NUM>. the control circuit <NUM> may flash or change the color of the LED <NUM> for the air outlet <NUM> to provide an indication to the user that the hands were detected by the air outlet <NUM>. The control circuit <NUM> may also generate a control signal <NUM> to the fan <NUM>, causing it to activate such that air is dispensed. The fan <NUM> may be energized for a predefined time or may remain on while the user's hands are detected under the air outlet <NUM>.

The sensor <NUM> proximate the air outlet <NUM> may be configured to detect a user's hands below the fixture <NUM> for a distance equal to the height of the fixture <NUM> above the basin <NUM>. As a result, the user's hands will be detected at any height between the air outlet <NUM> and the basin <NUM>. This detection distance is preferably configurable within the sensor <NUM> and may be set greater than the detection distance of the soap outlet. The motor for the fan <NUM> 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 <NUM> detects a user's hands beneath the air outlet <NUM>. According to one aspect of the invention, the motor speed may be selected such that a user'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 <NUM>, 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's hands are located within the air stream.

The control circuit <NUM> may further be configured to provide interlocks in dispensing air from the fixture <NUM>. 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 <NUM> and stop dispensing air prior to dispensing water. A maximum duration may also be configured for which the air outlet <NUM> may dispense air without requiring the user to remove and reinsert their hands beneath the air outlet <NUM>. This prevents continued dispensing of air if the user leaves their hands under the air outlet <NUM> for an extended period of time or if, for example, a foreign object falls in the basin <NUM> under the fixture <NUM> proximate the air outlet <NUM>.

According to another aspect of the invention, the lavatory system <NUM> may include one or more approach sensors <NUM>. Each approach sensor <NUM> may be mounted on an inside surface of the housing <NUM> and in line with one of the fixtures <NUM>. The housing <NUM> may include an opening <NUM> 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 <NUM> and received at the sensor <NUM> to detect the user's approach. If a line-of-sight sensor is used, it is contemplated that a portion of the housing <NUM> may be made of a translucent material, allowing the emitted sensor signal to pass through. Optionally, a lens may be inserted in the opening <NUM> 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 <NUM> may emit a signal capable of passing through the housing <NUM>. 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 <NUM> generates a feedback signal <NUM> to the control circuit <NUM>. The control circuit <NUM> may use the approach signal <NUM>, for example, to bring the lavatory system <NUM> out of a power-saving state or may prepare the lavatory system <NUM> for use. In the power saving state, a portion of the control circuit <NUM> may be do-energized. When the approach signal <NUM> is detected, the lavatory system <NUM> may energize the entire control circuit <NUM> in anticipation of use. Similarly, the control circuit <NUM> may energize a heater, if present, to begin warming air for delivery to a user. According to yet another example, the visual indicators <NUM> on the fixture <NUM> may be energized in response to receiving the approach signal <NUM>. Still other actions may be taken in response to the approach signal <NUM> at die control circuit <NUM> that will speed the user's hand washing experience.

According to another aspect of the invention, the lavatory system <NUM> is configurable using the sensors <NUM> in the fixture <NUM>. Previously, configuration of a lavatory system <NUM> would be performed, for example, via dip switches, a rotary switch, or the like located within or near the enclosure for the control circuit <NUM> and contained under the deck <NUM> and within the housing <NUM> of the lavatory system <NUM>. Changing operation such as the motor speed for the fan <NUM>. volume of soap dispensed, duration of water flow, and the like required removing the housing <NUM> and accessing the switches beneath the deck <NUM>. The present lavatory system <NUM> provides for configuration of the lavatory system <NUM> via the sensors <NUM> above the deck without removing the housing <NUM>.

A user may enter a configuration mode for the lavatory system <NUM> by inserting the user's hands under the sensors <NUM> in a predefined sequence. The sequence is selected to avoid accidental entry of the configuration mode during normal operation of the lavatory system <NUM>. 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 <NUM> in sequence from left-to-right or right-to-left multiple times in succession and subsequently holding a hand under one of the sensor <NUM> for a predefined time. Still other sequences may be used without deviating from the scope of the invention. Once the lavatory system <NUM> has entered configuration mode, each of the visual indicators <NUM> may provide an indication to the user of the configuration mode. The indicators <NUM> may, for example, turn to a unique color designating configuration mode.

The user then continues to configure the lavatory system <NUM> by further passing the user's hands under different sensors <NUM>. 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's hands under a sensor <NUM> proximate to the respective outlet. For example, to configure the water dispensing system, the user may insert a hand under a sensor <NUM> proximate the water outlet <NUM> and to configure the air dispensing system, the user may insert a hand under a sensor <NUM> proximate the air outlet <NUM>. 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 <NUM> may contain a predefined number of parameters that are configurable via the sensors <NUM> and the user may increment or decrement through each parameter by inserting a hand under one of the sensors <NUM>. 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 <NUM>. It is contemplated that a first sensor <NUM> may be utilized to choose a parameter for configuration and a second sensor <NUM> 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 <NUM> the setting of the parameter increments or decrements to the next setting. The lavatory system <NUM> 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 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.

Claim 1:
A fixture (<NUM>) for a lavatory system (<NUM>) having a deck (<NUM>) and a basin (<NUM>) in the deck (<NUM>), the lavatory system (<NUM>) configured to be mounted to a lavatory wall, the fixture (<NUM>) is operable to dispense soap, water, and air, the fixture (<NUM>) being characterised by comprising:
a first leg (110a) having a first end (112a), a second end (114a), and a first passage (120a) extending between the first end and the second end (112a, 114a) of the first leg (120a), wherein the first end (112a) is configured to be mounted to the deck (<NUM>) and the second end (114a) is configured to be positioned over the basin (<NUM>);
a second leg (110b) having a first end (112b), a second end (114b), and a second passage (120b) extending between the first end and the second end (112b, 114b) of the second leg (110b), wherein the first end (112b) is configured to be mounted to the deck (<NUM>) and the second end (114b) is configured to be positioned over the basin (<NUM>);
a connecting section (<NUM>) between the first leg (110a) and the second leg (110b), wherein the connecting section (<NUM>) has a water outlet (<NUM>), a soap outlet (<NUM>) and an air outlet (<NUM>);
a first tube (<NUM>) operable to carry the water through one of the first leg (110a) and the second leg (110b) to the water outlet (<NUM>) on the connecting section (<NUM>); and
a second tube (<NUM>) operable to carry the soap through one of the first leg (110a) and the second leg (110b) to the soap outlet (<NUM>) on the connecting section (<NUM>);
a duct (<NUM>) to transmit the air to the air outlet (<NUM>) on the connecting section (<NUM>) is defined by one of the first passage (120a) and the second passage (120b).