Electronic Foot-Operated Faucet

This disclosure relates generally to user-operated faucets and, more particularly, to hands-free, user-operated faucets, such as those for drinking water.

Traditional faucets typically require manual operation, where the user turns a handle or lever to control the flow of water. However, electronic faucets have been developed to provide alternative methods of water flow control. These electronic faucets utilize various mechanisms to offer a more convenient and efficient solution for certain use cases. Electronic faucets can be configured to offer hands-free operation, providing a hygienic solution for situations where continuous water flow is required, such as handwashing or cleaning items in a basin. In these cases, sensors are used to detect the presence of a user's hand and trigger the flow of water. Once the hand is removed, the water flow automatically stops. Despite the many benefits offered by electronic faucets, said faucets are typically geared toward detecting a user's hand over a faucet sink or basin, as the presence of the user's hand at that particular location between the spout of the faucet and the basin indicates that the user desires water to be dispensed. Furthermore, faucets for other purposes may still be desirably operated using a hands-free manner (i.e., no physical hand contact with the faucet), but without having to place a hand or object between the faucet basin and spout. Accordingly, such conventional electronic faucets are not suitable for all water faucet use cases, such as for drinking fountains, which typically are operated through a user placing their mouth within a few inches of the faucet spout so as to catch the dispensed water in their mouth.

Furthermore, for water drinking fountains and other faucets where hands-free operation is desired, mechanical foot-operated faucets enable hands-free operation through providing mechanical actuators, often implemented as pedals, that are operatable by a user's foot for controlling dispensing of water. Such contact-based, foot-operated faucets may be particularly useful in scenarios where users may not wish to or are unable to interact with the faucet using their hands or an intermediary object. For instance, in the context of drinking fountains, the typical mode of operation involves a user positioning their mouth close to the spout to drink directly from the stream of water. Traditional electronic faucets, which rely on hand or object proximity to activate water flow, do not cater well to this use case. Mechanical valves, like foot-operated ones, offer an alternative hands-free solution that can be more suitable for such situations. However, such contact-based, foot-operated faucets have drawbacks as well, such as potential hygiene concerns stemming from repeated use of a foot or footwear to operate the valve(s), and the potential for operational difficulty among users with restricted or impaired mobility in their feet or legs.

Therefore, there is a need for simpler and/or more cost-effective solutions that maintain the efficiency and convenience of electronic faucets.

Illustrative embodiments of an electronic foot-operated faucet, a system having such a faucet, a method for operating such a faucet, a control system configured according to such a method, and memory having computer instructions that when executed cause the method to be performed, are disclosed. The faucet includes a faucet spout for dispensing liquid, an electronically-controllable valve for controlling flow of the liquid to the faucet spout, a foot detection sensor configured to sense a presence of an individual's foot or other object within a foot detection region, and a control subsystem. The control subsystem is configured to cause the faucet to detect an object within the foot detection region based on sensor data from the foot detection sensor, and control the electronically-controllable valve based on the detection of an object within the foot detection region.

In general, an electronic foot-operated system having an electronic foot-operated faucet, and method of operating an electronic foot-operated faucet are provided, including embodiments directed to enabling foot-controlled dispensing of water (or other liquid) out of a spout of a faucet (“faucet spout”). According to embodiments, the electronic foot-operated faucet includes the faucet spout, an electronically-controllable valve for controlling flow of the liquid to the faucet spout, a foot detection sensor configured to sense a presence of an individual's foot or other object (e.g., leg, knee, cane) within a foot detection region, and a control subsystem, which may comprise at least one processor and memory storing computer instructions. Further, in embodiments, the electronic foot-operated faucet, particularly through use of the computer subsystem, is configured to perform the method discussed herein, including any one or more of the method's various embodiments discussed herein.

A method of controlling dispensing of liquid through “hands-free or “touchless” or “non-contact” (collectively, referred to as “hands-free”) user operation is provided, which is expounded on below in the following discussion of embodiments. According to embodiments, the method includes: detecting an object within a foot detection region based on sensor data from a foot detection sensor; and controlling the electronically-controllable valve based on the detection of an object within the foot detection region.

The electronic foot-operated faucet, as well as the related system and method, will be described using one or more illustrative examples of embodiments, and with said description being made with reference to using the faucet as a handicap-accessible water faucet mounted on a wall or other fixed building structure, and is described in embodiments as being usable for dispensing hot and/or cold water based on foot-operated inputs from a user, according to embodiments as discussed below. Nonetheless, it will be appreciated as the description proceeds that the presently-disclosed subject matter is useful in many different applications and may be implemented in many other embodiments. Accordingly, the electronic foot-operated faucet, as well as the related system and method, may be used for dispensing any liquids or other fluids for any purpose.

Unlike traditional floor or wall mounted foot valve systems, this electronic foot-operated faucet provides an “electronic foot pedal” that does not require physical contact, which provides for reductions in mechanical complexity and cost. Additionally, this electronic solution prevents or at least reduces transportation and transmission of pathogens from a user's foot or footwear. Furthermore, according to embodiments, this electronic foot pedal solution can combine the benefits of a sink mounted/knee activated valve, potentially allowing for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Accordingly, in embodiments, the downward-facing foot detection region could also be easily operated by someone in a wheelchair, thereby providing functionality not possible with a mechanical foot pedal valve. The electronic foot-operated faucet disclosed herein, thus, enables cost-savings and improves sanitariness, at least according to embodiments and implementations.

Referring specifically to the drawings,shows a block diagram depicting a schematic representation of an electronic foot-operated faucet. The electronic foot-operated faucetincludes a faucet spoutfor dispensing liquid supplied by a liquid source LS, at least one electronically-controllable valvefor controlling flow of the liquid through the faucet spout, a foot detection sensor, and a control subsystemhaving at least one processorand memory. Further, according to the illustrated embodiment of, the electronic foot-operated faucetfurther includes an approach sensor, a foot detection region indicator, and a power sourcefor providing power to the control subsystem. In other embodiments, other components may be used in addition to or in lieu of those components of the electronic foot-operated faucet, and/or certain components of the electronic foot-operated faucetmay be omitted, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art in light of the discussion herein. As used herein, the term “electronically-controlled” includes “electrically-controlled” and “digitally-controlled” and the like. Also, in, the floating, bold arrows indicate the direction of fluid flow.

The faucet spoutis a spout for dispensing the liquid supplied by the liquid source LS, which may be hot and/or cold water, for example. Any suitable construction may be used for the faucet spout. The faucet spoutis in fluid communication with the at least one electronically-controllable valve, which controls fluid communication therethrough so as to modulate delivery of liquid from the liquid source LS to the faucet spout. In, lines having a double line compound type, such as those extending between the liquid source LS and the at least one electronically-controllable valve, indicate fluid communication.

Embodiments herein describe the liquid source LS as being a water source and, in particular, at least according to some embodiments, as being constituted by a hot water source and a cold water source. However, it will be appreciated that reference to the liquid source LS and a liquid source generally is made in a broad sense, and is not limited to any fixed number of sources, compositions, characteristics, or types, except where expressly stated.

The at least one electronically-controllable valverefers to one or more electronically-controllable valves, each of which is in communication with the liquid source LS. In one embodiment, the at least one electronically-controllable valveis a single electronically-controllable valve, such as where a liquid dispensing system is used for only controlling whether liquid is being dispensed or not and not for controlling aspects of the liquid (e.g., temperature or composition). In another embodiment, the at least one electronically-controllable valveincludes a first electronically-controllable valveand a second electronically-controllable valvesuch as where a liquid dispensing system is used for controlling whether liquid is being dispensed or not and for controlling aspects of the liquid (e.g., temperature or composition).

An electronically-controllable valve refers to a valve that can be electronically controlled in order to control passing therethrough of liquid or other fluid. In one embodiment, a single electronically-controllable valve may be used in a liquid dispensing system to control the dispensing of liquid without affecting its temperature or composition and, in another embodiment, the electronically-controllable valveincludes two separate valves(), allowing for more control over the liquid dispensing process. Various types of valves can be used as the electronically-controllable valve, such as solenoid valves, motorized ball valves, diaphragm valves, butterfly valves, or globe valves. The choice of valve type would depend on the specific requirements and functionalities of the liquid dispensing system. In at least one embodiment, a solenoid valve is used. In such an embodiment, an electronic solenoid valve receives water (or other liquid) from a supply stop or mixing valve (generally represented by the liquid source LS) and direct it to the faucet outlet or spout. The operation of the valve(s)is controlled by the control subsystem, which may use a microprocessor and computer memory, or may use an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) such as an electronic driving circuit that receives a signal from the foot detection sensor. In any event, the control subsystemmay include electronics including non-transitory, computer-readable medium and at least one processor, to cause the various methods disclosed herein to be performed.

The foot detection sensoris configured to detect a foot or other object within a designated region, referred to herein as a foot detection region. Various types of sensors can be utilized for the foot detection sensor, such as infrared (IR) technology or time of flight sensors. The foot detection sensoris oriented so that a field of view (FOV) of the sensoris directed downwardly, such as to a region at or near the ground, whereat a user's feet would be located. The foot detection sensormay be mounted on the underside of a faucet basin, and oriented to have its FOV aimed at an area on the ground below the faucet basin. A time of flight (TOF) sensor measures the time it takes for a signal to travel to the object and return, providing accurate distance measurements. The time of flight sensor may be an ultrasonic sensor that can gather information obtained from ultrasonic waves transmitted from a foot detection region. In another embodiment, lidar, radar, or IR technology may be used. For example, in the case of IR technology, the sensor emits infrared light and measures the time it takes for the light to reflect back, allowing it to determine the distance between the sensor and the object. As used herein, the term “infrared” refers to near-infrared (NIR), mid-infrared (MIR), and far-infrared (FIR). Other time of flight sensors, which may offer different field of view capabilities depending on their design and specifications, for example, may be used as the foot detection sensor. In other embodiments, a position sensitive detector (PSD) infrared (IR) sensor may be used as the foot detection sensorwhereby the position of an infrared light source is determined by measuring the location where the IR light hits the sensor, which may be used to calculate the angle or position of the object emitting the IR light. And, in embodiments, an intensity-IR sensor may be used, where the intensity of infrared radiation is measured.

The control subsystemis used for controlling operation of the at least one electronically-controllable valvebased on information from the foot detection sensor, namely whether a foot or other object is detected within the foot detection region. The control subsystemis a “subsystem” as it is used as one of multiple components that work together to provide a desired end result, such as dispensing of water, for example. The control subsystemis also a system and may be referred to as a control system, particularly when being referred to in its individual capacity. In this regard, the control subsystemis also referred to as an electronic foot-operated control system or subsystem. The control subsystemincludes the at least one processorand the memory. Here, the at least one processorand memoryform a controller; however, in other embodiments, other processing means, such as an Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), may be utilized to perform the method and these processing means/components constitute a controller of the control subsystem, particularly, an electronic controller as it operates through application of electric power to electronic components. These alternative processing means can be employed interchangeably with the processor(s) and/or memory as appropriate to achieve the desired control functionality for the control subsystem.

Each of the at least one processormay be implemented as any suitable electronic hardware that is capable of executing or processing computer instructions and may be selected based on the application in which it is to be used. Examples of types of processors that may be used include central processing units (CPUs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), microprocessors, microcontrollers, etc. Any one or more of the non-transitory, computer-readable memory discussed herein may be implemented as any suitable type of memory that is capable of storing data or information in a non-volatile manner and in an electronic form so that the stored data or information is consumable by the processor. The memory may be any a variety of different electronic memory types and may be selected based on the application in which it is to be used. Examples of types of memory that may be used include including magnetic or optical disc drives, ROM (read-only memory), solid-state drives (SSDs) (including other solid-state storage such as solid state hybrid drives (SSHDs)), other types of flash memory, hard disk drives (HDDs), non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM), etc. It will be appreciated that any one or more of the computers discussed herein may include other memory, such as volatile RAM that is used by the processor, and/or multiple processors.

The approach sensoris configured to detect an individual within an approach region, which may be a predetermined zone or region whereat an individual is positioned during operation of the faucet. In the present embodiment, the approach sensoris a proximity sensor that detects the presence of an individual within an approach region, and is positioned in front of the faucet, corresponding to the area where an individual typically stands when operating the faucet, such as within a couple feet of the sink apron. The proximity sensor, serving as the approach sensor, is capable of detecting occupancy within a proximity detection zone (the approach region) located in front of the faucet spout.

Various types of technology and sensors are used for detecting the approach or presence of a user at a faucet. These can include infrared sensors, proximity sensors, motion sensors, or even advanced computer vision systems. These technologies enable touchless operation of the faucet by detecting the user's movement or proximity, allowing for a convenient and hygienic user experience. Some examples of technologies used for detecting an individual at a faucet/in the approach region include: infrared-based proximity sensors, which are sensors that emit and detect infrared light to detect the presence of a person near the faucet; capacitive proximity sensors, which are sensors that detect changes in capacitance caused by the proximity of a person; ultrasonic proximity sensors, which are ultrasonic sensors that emit sound waves and measure the time it takes for the waves to bounce back from an object, which may be presumed to be an individual in certain embodiments and/or implementations; and optical proximity sensors, which are optical sensors that use light to detect the presence of an individual near the faucet.

The control subsystemutilizes the information from the approach sensorto control the at least one electronically-controllable valveso as to control the water flow when an individual is detected within the approach region and when any other inputs are suitably received, such as a detection indication from the foot detection sensor. In one embodiment, the control subsystemmay be configured to cause colder water to be dispensed when the object is detected toward a first lateral side of a foot detection region and hotter water to be dispensed when the object is detected toward a second lateral side of the foot detection zone. In another embodiment, in response to detecting an individual within the approach region, the foot detection sensoris activated so that the sensortransitions from a passive state to an active state whereby the foot detection sensorcaptures sensor data for detecting a foot or other object within the foot detection region. In the passive state, no sensor data is being collected, or is being collected at a reduced rate (e.g., reduced sampling rate, reduced resolution), and/or said sensor data is not being used for controlling the at least one electronically-controllable valve. In this regard, according to such embodiments, the foot detection functionality of the faucetis not enabled until an individual is detected in the approach region. However, in other embodiments, this may not be the case and, indeed, in some embodiments, the approach sensormay be omitted entirely.

The foot detection region indicatoris a device that generates a visual and/or audible notification or indicator so as to indicate a status (e.g. a detection status) concerning the foot detection region or the foot detection sensor, thereby informing a user of the status of the faucet. The foot detection region indicatoris a visible light source, such as a light emitting diode (LED), that emits light indicating a status concerning the foot detection region, such as whether an object is detected as being located within the foot detection region. In one embodiment, the foot detection region indicatoris a visual indicator projected onto the floor or ground below the foot detection region and/or the approach region. The visual indicator may be projected persistently or continuously in an embodiment, or intermittently in another embodiment. In embodiments, a LED is used to project light onto the ground with graphics, coloring, or other characteristic of the light being used to convey a status of the foot detection sensoror foot detection region. In another embodiment, an electronic display screen is used as the foot detection region indicatorto output the status. In other embodiments, an audible indication is provided, such as through playing a predetermined sound using a loud speaker, for example. In one embodiment, a predetermined sound is played through the loud speaker when a foot or other object is detected in the foot detection region. In some embodiments, both an audible indicator and a visual indicator may be used. The control subsystemis configured to control output of the indicator so as to provide the audible and/or visual indication.

The power sourceis used for providing electric power to the control subsystem, so as to power the at least one processorand the memory(or other processing or controller components). The power sourcein the depicted embodiment is a standalone power source, which refers to a self-contained device that is able to store and distribute electrical energy independently without the need for an external power supply or connection. For example, batteries are a common example of a standalone power source, as they store chemical energy that can be converted to electrical energy to power various electronic devices or equipment. In other embodiments, the power sourcemay be a solar panel based power device that has photovoltaic cells used for capturing solar energy and converting it to electrical energy, which may be stored in a battery. In other embodiments, the faucetdoes not include a standalone power source, but is powered using other means, such as through being directly wired to building power (e.g.,volt AC power in the United States, for example).

With reference to, there is shown an electronic foot-operated faucet, which is similar to the electronic foot-operated faucetof, except that the faucetis expressly described as having two electronically-controllable valvesfor controlling dispensing of cold water CW and hot water HW through the faucet spout. In particular, the first electronically-controllable valveis configured to control flow of the cold water CW through the faucet spout, and the second electronically-controllable valveis configured to control flow of the hot water HW through the faucet spout. The control subsystemis configured to obtain sensor data from the foot detection sensorand to control operation of the electronically-controllable valves,in order to control dispensing of water through the faucet spout, such as through controlling the first electronically-controllable valvein order to dispense the cold water CW when a foot or other object is detected in a first foot detection subregion and/or to dispense the hot water HW when a foot or other object is detected in a second foot detection subregion.

With reference to, there is shown an electronic foot-operated faucet′, which is similar to the electronic foot-operated faucetof, except that the faucet′ is expressly described as using its two electronically-controllable valves′,′ for controlling dispensing of tempered water TW through the faucet spoutand soap S through a soap spout. The soap spoutis separate from the faucet spoutand there is no shared fluid pathway for the soap S and the tempered water TW prior to being dispensed out of the respective faucet spouts,; however in other embodiments, a single faucet spout may be used for the tempered water TW (or other water of another temperature, depending on the application) and the soap S, with a common fluid pathway extending between the respective valves′,′ and a single faucet spout. The tempered water TW refers to water that is a combination of hot and cold water, and the proportions of such may be varied by an operator and/or for the use case or application in which the faucet′ is to be used.

With reference to, there is shown an electronic foot-operated faucet systemhaving an electronic foot-operated faucet, a faucet spout, at least one electronically-controllable valve, a foot detection sensor, a control subsystem, and an approach sensor. The components,,,,, andare analogous to components,,,,, andof the electronic foot-operated faucetof, respectively, and that discussion is hereby incorporated and attributed to those like components,,,,, andof the electronic foot-operated faucetof. The electronic foot-operated faucetis mounted to a wall or fixed building structure (referred to as “wall”) W and includes housing, which may be formed of one or more pieces and which is used to house the components,,,,, andof the electronic foot-operated faucet. The electronic foot-operated faucetfurther includes a faucet basinfor collecting liquid dispensed through the faucet spout. Although the present illustrated embodiment describes a wall-mounted faucet, it will be appreciated that, according to embodiments, a floor-mounted or free-standing faucet may be used.

The faucet basinprojects forward from the wall W and includes a faucet drain (not shown) for collecting the liquid dispensed by the faucet spout. The faucet drain of the faucet basinis connected to a drain pipe (not shown) that runs from the faucet drain, underneath the faucet basin, and into the wall W. Likewise, water pipes are provided in the wall W and used to provide a fluid path from the liquid source LS to the faucet. The housingis shown as including a lower housingfor housing the drain pipe, the foot detection sensor, the approach sensor, structural supports such as braces, and/or other components of the faucet. Further, a spout bodyis provided and includes a fluid path between the electronically-controllable valveand the faucet spoutwhere the liquid is dispensed. In the illustrated embodiment, the spout bodyis shaped as a gooseneck and the faucetgenerally may be referred to as a gooseneck faucet, at least in the present illustrated embodiment. In other embodiments, the housingmay include an upper housing (not shown) housing the spout body, the fluid path previously mentioned, and/or other components connecting the faucet spoutto a fluid path through which liquid is delivered via operation of the electronically-controllable valve. The faucet basinincludes a sink apronthat is positioned between the faucet spoutand the position where an individual is located when using the faucet, generally corresponding to a front, laterally-centered end. The faucet basinmay be comprised of a variety of suitable materials, and may include a drain hole and drain cover, as well as other ancillary components, as appreciated by those skilled in the art.

The faucetin the illustrated embodiment is an example of a hand hygiene sink, which may be used in a healthcare setting, for example, where the faucetis a deck-mounted (or deckmounted) laminar, smoothend gooseneck faucet, particularly with the faucet bodyand spoutformed as a gooseneck spout. However, it will be appreciated that other constructions may be used. This contrasts with wall-mounted faucets, which are attached to the wall and extend over the sink. The housingof the illustrated embodiment, is used to house certain components in the lower housing, and this may be comprised of metal alloys, other metals or metal materials, ceramics, plastics, polymers, other suitable materials, or a combination thereof. A main portionof the lower housingis shaped approximately as a quarter of a circle, spanning in a rotational/circular manner from an upper wall or portion snuggly fit to the underside of the faucet basinto a side wall or portion fit snuggly to the wall W. The lower housingincludes a sensor housing portionhaving two sensor view portionswhereby a viewport or window or other area within the walls forming the exterior of the lower housingare provided, so as to permit electromagnetic and/or acoustic waves to suitably be transmitted therethrough and received at the respective sensor,. In particular, the foot detection sensoris housed within the sensor housing portionon an underneath side of the faucet basin, and configured to have a sensor field of view that is observable by the sensorvia transmission through the sensor view portionLikewise, the approach sensoris housed within the sensor housing portionon an underneath side of the faucet basin, and configured to have a sensor field of view that is observable by the sensorvia transmission through the sensor view portionIn other embodiments, the sensors,and corresponding sensor view portionsare incorporated into the same housing as the drain pipe and/or water supply lines, and may accordingly appear as a unitary construction with said sensor view portionstherein.

With reference to, there are shown depictions of the faucet systemof, including a side view () and a top view (). The faucet systemincludes a foot detection regionthat corresponds to a region in which the foot detection sensoris able to detect a foot or other object. Further, the faucet systemincludes an approach detection regionthat corresponds to a region in which the approach sensoris able to detect an individual.depict an approach area A and a faucet area F, each of which correspond to respective portions or regions on the floor or ground G. The approach area A is defined as an area in front of the faucet basin, corresponding to an area located in front of a faucet front end plane B in the faucet system. The faucet area F is defined as an area spanning between the faucet front end plane B (or approach area A) and a faucet rear end plane C, which corresponds to the wall W on which the faucetis mounted. In embodiments in which a floor-mounted or floor-standing faucet is used, the faucet rear end plane C corresponds to a rear-most end wall or portion of the faucet, generally corresponding to a rear-or back-side of an outer housing of the faucet. A faucet dispense plane D is defined as a plane orthogonal to the faucet rear end plane C and having a point at which the liquid is dispensed from the faucet spout, corresponding to a center of where said liquid is dispensed when exiting the faucet spout. Accordingly, the faucet dispense plane D is a vertical projection plane positioned vertically in tangential contact with an exit location of the faucet spout at which the liquid is dispensed.

A middle basin plane Mand a middle dispensing plane Mare showed as being aligned inas the basinis aligned in the lateral or left to right direction (top and down in) with the location at which the liquid is dispensed. In other embodiments, the middle basin plane Mand the middle dispensing plane Mare not aligned laterally. Either of the middle basin plane Mor the middle dispensing plane Mmay be used as a middle faucet plane M. The middle faucet plane M is used to define a left lateral side LS and a right lateral side RS, with the left lateral side LS being disposed on the left side of the middle faucet plane M when facing the faucet for operation and the right lateral side RS being disposed on the right side of the middle faucet plane M when facing the faucet for operation.

With reference to, there are shown alternative embodiments of an electronic foot-operated faucet system′,″, each being analogous to the faucet system, but employing a different foot detection strategy as embodied by foot detection configurations′,″. The foot detection configuration′ ofis shown as being comprised of a first foot detection subregionand a second foot detection subregioneach of which is comprised of one half of the foot detection region′ and defined by central border. The foot detection configuration″ ofis shown as being comprised of a first foot detection subregion′ and a second foot detection subregion′, each of which is projected onto the ground G as an oval. In one embodiment, the foot detection sensormay employ multiple sensing elements, such as two, one for each of the foot detection subregions′,

With reference to, there are shown foot detection configurations(),′ (),″ (),″′ (), each of which may be employed by the faucet,,, according to embodiments.depicts the foot detection configurationemployed by the faucetof,depicts the foot detection configuration′ employed by the faucet′ of, anddepicts the foot detection configuration″ employed by the faucet system″ of. Further, each ofand alsodepicts foot detection region visual indicator outputs(),′ (),″ (),″′ (). These visual indicator outputs,′,″,″′ are generated by a light source, such as an LED-based projector that projects light onto a surface, such as the ground G as shown in the embodiments of. The visual indicator outputs,′,″ are each associated with a particular region or subregion, as shown being defined by the long dash-single dot lines. In the depicted embodiments, graphical characters, particularly text characters and a double-sided arrow (), are projected as part of the visual indicator outputs,′,″,″′. However, in other embodiments, textual characters, discernible graphics, or any other suitable indicia of any kind may be omitted and coloring and/or timing of light emission may be used for indicating a status of the foot detection sensor, region, or system. For example, a blue light produced by an LED may be used for the first subregion indicator outputindicating cold water, and a red light may be used for the second subregion indicator output, indicating hot water. In yet other embodiments, the visual indicator outputs,′,″,″′ projected onto a floor or the like may include operational information useful to a user, for instance, water temperature, water flow duration or count-down timer, mode of operation such as metered flow or sanitary purge, or diagnostic or error messages like battery life or required maintenance such as filter replacement.

In another embodiment, the visual indicator outputs,′,″,″′ are not generated by a device, but are printed matter or other indicia that is placed on the ground G within or right below the foot detection region. In some embodiments, a combination of light-generated visual indicators and printed matter visual indicators may be used, although the printed matter visual indicators are static or permanent by nature and are usable for indicating an input location and/or faucet function responsive to said input, rather than conveying a status of the faucet, such as a status of the foot detection region.

Another feature may include a deactivation or lockout mode that locks out faucet operation for maintenance purposes, housekeeping, environmental testing, or the like. This deactivation mode or lockout mode is used as a part of implementing a lockout feature that is used to prevent unintended water and/or soap activation, such as when an individual is mopping or cleaning around the foot detection region, for example. Accordingly, to prevent such unintended activation of the faucet, a cleaning mode may be defined as a part of the faucet's configuration, particularly where the controller is configured to implement the cleaning or lockout mode. The lockout mode and lockout feature of the present embodiment are discussed in the context of a cleaning mode; however, it will be appreciated that the lockout mode and lockout feature are applicable to other scenarios, for which different criteria may be desired, as those skilled in the art will appreciate in light of the teachings herein. Below, and with reference to, there is described a method of activating a lockout mode for an electronically-controllable faucet, according to one embodiment.

With reference to, there is shown a methodof controlling dispensing of liquid, such as water, from a faucet, particularly a hands-free faucet. The methodmay be performed by any of the faucets or faucet systems discussed herein, and may be effected through operation of the control subsystem of the faucet.

The methodbegins with step, wherein an object is detected within the foot detection region based on sensor data from the foot detection sensor. In general, the foot detection sensordetects whether a foot or object is within the foot detection region, and this detection may be represented by foot detection sensor data that is captured by the foot detection sensorand sent to the control subsystem. In embodiments, the foot detection region corresponds to a portion of the field of view (FOV) of the foot detection sensor, particularly a region of the FOV of the foot detection sensorfor which a positive signal is generated when an object, such as a foot, is detected as being present therein. Each foot detection region may be defined by one or more distance parameters and/or one or more time parameters, where the distance parameter(s) specify distance(s) from or measured by the foot detection sensor and the time parameter(s) specify an amount of time an object is detected generally (at all) or at the specified distance(s). In the embodiments of, various foot detection regions are shown, some of which include a single, distinct region and others that include two distinct regions, each individually referred to as a foot detection subregion. In embodiments, for example those employing multiple foot detection subregions, the foot detection sensor data may indicate which subregion a foot or other object was detected. The control subsystemmay store the foot detection sensor data, such as in the memory. The methodcontinues to step.

In step, the electronically-controllable valve is controlled based on the detection of an object within the foot detection region. The detection of an object, such as a foot or other object giving rise to a positive sensor detection, within the foot detection region is used as a basis for controlling the at least one electronically-controllable valve, such as for opening the valveso as to permit the flow of liquid from the liquid source LS through the faucet spout. For example, with reference to, when a user places their foot in the foot detection region, the control subsystemdetermines to activate the valveso as to cause liquid to flow from the liquid source LS and out through the faucet spoutand, accordingly, the control subsystemsends a signal to the electronically-controllable valveso as to cause the valveto open or otherwise activate in order to deliver the liquid through the faucet spout. In at least one embodiment, when a user's foot is detected, the valveis activated so water or other liquid flows out of the faucet spoutand, in response to detecting the user moving their foot out of the foot detection region, the valveis deactivated so that liquid is stopped from flowing out of the faucet spout. Accordingly, in such an embodiment, flow temporally coincides with detection of a user's foot or object in the foot detection region.

In another embodiment, when a user's foot is first detected in the foot detection region, the valveis activated by the control subsystemso as to cause liquid to flow out through the faucet spoutand the valveis then kept in an active state until the user's foot is detected again in the foot detection region. Here, a user may place their foot into the foot detection regionto activate the faucetand then may take their foot out of the foot detection region; in this embodiment, liquid continues to flow and during this time the visual indicator outputmay be updated to say “Off” and/or turn a different color to indicate that another input by the user (constituted by introducing a foot or other object into the foot detection region) results in deactivating the valveso as to stop flow of the liquid through the faucet spout. In such embodiments, the control subsystemmay provide a deactivate signal to the electronically-controllable valvewhen the user for a second time places their foot into the foot detection region. Accordingly, the valvemay be opened for a length of time that a user's foot is detected as being in the detection region, and closed when the user's foot is no longer detected as being in the detection region.

In yet another embodiment, when a user's foot is detected in the foot detection region, the valveis activated by the control subsystemso as to cause liquid to flow out through the faucet spoutand the valveis then kept in an active state for a predetermined amount of time. Here, a user may place their foot into the foot detection regionto activate the faucetand then may take their foot out of the foot detection region; in this embodiment, liquid continues to flow until the predetermined amount of time has expired. Accordingly, the control subsystemprovides a deactivate signal to the electronically-controllable valvewhen the predetermined amount of time has expired, at least in such an embodiment. The predetermined amount of time may be referred to as a metering time or predetermined metering time whereby the liquid and/or soap is dispensed for a predetermined amount of time, regardless of object presence or sensor inputs during the metering time. Thus, the liquid may be dispensed for the metering time regardless of whether a foot or other object remains or is moved in or out of the foot detection zone(s). This may be applicable when the faucet is used in healthcare applications, such as for surgeon scrub or clinical sinks.

In yet another embodiment, and with reference to, detection of a user's foot or other object may be more specific than merely detection of a presence of the user's foot or object in the foot detection region, but detection with respect to multiple subregions of the foot detection region. For example, the foot detection sensormay be configured to detect a foot or other like object in a first foot detection subregion′ and, when detected, provide a first foot detection subregion positive detection indication to the control subsystem. Likewise, the foot detection sensormay be configured to detect a foot or other like object in a second foot detection subregion′ and, when detected, provide a second foot detection subregion positive detection indication to the control subsystem.

In another embodiment, and with reference to, the foot detection sensormay be configured to detect a location or position of the user's foot (or other object) within the foot detection region″′, such as detecting a lateral position of the user's foot within the foot detection region″′. The term “lateral” refers to a left to right direction, such as in the direction of the double-ended arrow of, laterally spanning from “Cold” on the left to “Hot” on the right. The position of the user's foot (or “foot position”) is then used for determining operation of the at least one electronically-controllable valve.

And, in other embodiments, other input mechanisms may be enabled by the foot-operated faucet, such as user gestures and gesture recognition, including sliding a foot in a particular manner or tapping a foot a fixed number of times in the foot detection region to set a duration of water flow or to influence water flow characteristics, such as temperature. And, in another example, an input such as a twisting motion of the user's foot or the user lifting their leg, may be used to activate or control water flow in some manner like temperature, flow rate, and/or dispensing duration. Further, in embodiments, the foot detection sensor and/or the indicator outputsmay be incorporated into a base of a cabinet or millwork directly in front of the sink or faucet basin. This would provide a convenient method of activating water flow without causing false activations or unintended use, at least according to implementations.

In the gesture recognition configuration previously discussed, the control subsystem and sensor may be configured to interpret these input signals and output the desired control or other response, ensuring that any input sequence that does not match the predetermined conditional parameters of the gesture would be ignored. The parameters for these gestures may be measured experimentally to develop a robust and recognizable pattern set. In one embodiment, artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning (ML) is used to determine a gesture recognition module that recognizes gestures based on input sensor data from the foot detection sensor(s). This may involve training a neural network or other ML classifier using foot detection sensor data along with output/classification/recognition labels. The trained neural network may then be deployed to the control subsystem of the faucet and used for gesture recognition during operation of the faucet and in response to receiving sensor data from the foot detection sensor.

In embodiments, such as those discussed in connection with, stepincludes operating a plurality of electronically-controllable valves, such as operating the first electronically-controllable valvewhen a cold water input is received so as to cause the cold water CW to flow out of the faucet spoutand operating the second electronically-controllable valvewhen a hot water input is received so as to cause the hot water HW to flow out of the faucet spout. As used herein, a “cold water input” is an input provided by a user indicating to dispense cold water; also, as used herein, a “hot water input” is an input provided by a user indicating to dispense hot water. For example, introducing a foot into the first foot detection subregion′ results in a cold water input and, likewise, introducing a foot into the second foot detection subregion′ results in a hot water input. Further, detection of a user's foot toward a left lateral end of the foot detection region″′ results in a cold water input and, likewise, detection of a user's foot toward a right lateral end of the foot detection region″′ results in a hot water input. And, in such embodiments, detection of a user's foot toward a center of the foot detection region″′ results in a tempered water input indicating to dispense lukewarm or moderate temperature water. Of course, in other embodiments, such input techniques may be adapted to controlling of various liquids having various different characteristics, such as composition and temperature. The methodends.

With reference to, there is shown a methodof controlling dispensing of liquid, such as water, from a faucet, particularly a hands-free faucet. The methodmay be performed by any of the faucets or faucet systems discussed herein, and may be effected through operation of the control subsystem of the faucet.

The methodbegins with step, wherein an individual is detected in an approach region. The approach sensordetects when an individual enters the approach region, and this region may correspond to a predetermined distance or proximity to a front end of the sink apron or front of a faucet basin, such as that which is shown in the embodiment of. When an individual is detected within the approach region, the foot detection sensoris activated. In embodiments, this is effected by the control subsystemcausing the foot detection sensorto enter an active mode wherein the foot detection sensoractively captures sensor data in order to detect a foot or other like object in the foot detection region. In some embodiments, when an individual is detected in the approach region, electronically-controllable visual indicators may be activated for viewing by the individual, such as through projecting visual indicators on the floor at or near the foot detection region. The methodcontinues to step.

In step, an object is detected within the foot detection region based on sensor data from the foot detection sensor. The methodcontinues to step. In step, the electronically-controllable valve is controlled based on the detection of an object within the foot detection region. The steps,are analogous to the steps,of the method() and that discussion is hereby incorporated and attributed to the stepsand, respectively. The methodends.

With reference to, there is shown a methodof method of activating a lockout mode for an electronically-controllable faucet, according to one embodiment. The methodmay also be characterized as a lockout activation process. The methodmay be performed by any of the faucets or faucet systems discussed herein, and may be effected through operation of the control subsystem of the faucet.

The methodbegins with step, wherein it is determined whether a predetermined input is received. In at least some embodiments, it is determined whether the predetermined input is received based on sensor data from the foot detection sensor. The predetermined input refers to one or more predetermined criteria or characteristics of the sensor data from the foot detection sensor, such as a predetermined detection sequence whereby an object is moved within and subsequently out of the foot detection zone a predetermined number of times within a predetermined time period; for example, a sequence where the user moves a target (e.g., a foot) in and out of the foot detection zone 5 times within 10 seconds or less; of course, other embodiments may employ other count values and time periods. The control subsystemmay compare the sensor data to the predetermined sequence information to determine whether the predetermined input sequence has been achieved by the user through interaction with the foot detection zone. In some embodiments, the predetermined input sequence may utilize multiple zones; for example, the predetermined input sequence may include a sequence where the user moves a target (e.g., a foot) in and out of a first foot detection zone 2 times and in and out of a second foot detection zone 2 times within 10 seconds or less; of course, other embodiments may employ other count values and time periods or combinations thereof with use with multiple foot detection zones. In other embodiments, a pushbutton or other physical or electronic input may be received as the predetermined input. The methodcontinues to step.

In step, the faucet is placed in a lockout mode whereby the electronically-controllable valve(s) are held closed for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 45 seconds, 90 seconds), referred to herein as a lockout period or predetermined lockout period. This lockout mode causes the solenoid of the electronically-controllable valve(s) to be locked out (i.e., locked in a position so that the valve is closed) or otherwise causes the electronically-controllable valve(s) to be and remain closed during the lockout period regardless of what other input is received as long as the faucet is in the lockout mode. The methodthen continues to step.

In step, the faucet exits the lockout mode after the predetermined period of time has expired. A timer, which may be implemented by the control subsystem, may be used for determining a period of time in which the faucet has been in the lockout mode. When the period of time is or exceeds the predetermined period of time, then the faucet exits the lockout mode, which may be implemented by causing the control subsystem to carry out normal operation of the faucet so that users may operate the faucet according to its normal or typical use. In embodiments, a predetermined input, such as akin to those discussed in step, may be used for exiting the lockout mode when the faucet is in the lockout mode and, in such embodiments, the lockout mode may be exited before the predetermined period of time has expired if said predetermined input for exiting the lockout mode is received. The methodends.