Power faucet and sink assembly

Abstract

A faucet assembly includes a faucet. The faucet includes a base movably coupled to a mounting surface having a first side and a second side. The faucet includes a spout rotatably coupled to the base. The spout includes a plurality of conduits each rotatably coupled to one another by an angled joint. The spout extends from the base to a free end including an outlet to discharge fluid. A first conduit of the plurality of conduits is rotatable relative to the base from a first rotational position toward a second rotational position, and a second conduit of the plurality of conduits is rotatable in response to rotation of the first conduit.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 250,958, filed on September 30, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to faucets and sinks. More specifically, this disclosure relates to faucets including a nozzle having a section hinged to change the shape of the nozzle and reposition the faucet outlet, and this disclosure relates to a movable sink assembly wherein the sink can be completely flush with a work surface. Summary of the Invention

[0004] One embodiment of this disclosure relates to a faucet assembly. The faucet assembly may include a faucet having a base movably coupled to a mounting surface having a first side and a second side. The faucet may include a nozzle rotatably coupled to the base. The nozzle may include a plurality of conduits, each of which is rotatably connected to each other via angled joints. The nozzle extends from the base to a free end having an outlet for discharging fluid. A first conduit of the plurality of conduits may rotate relative to the base from a first rotational position toward a second rotational position, and a second conduit of the plurality of conduits may rotate in response to rotation of the first conduit.

[0005] Another embodiment of this disclosure relates to a tap. The tap may include a base movably coupled to a mounting surface having a first side and a second side. The tap may include a nozzle rotatably coupled to the base. The nozzle may include a plurality of conduits, each of which is rotatably coupled to each other via angled joints. The nozzle may extend from the base to a free end having an outlet for discharging fluid. A first conduit of the plurality of conduits may rotate relative to the base from a first rotational position toward a second rotational position, and a second conduit of the plurality of conduits may rotate in response to rotation of the first conduit.

[0006] Another embodiment of this disclosure relates to a hinged sink assembly. The hinged sink assembly may include a sink base movably coupled to a cabinet including a mounting surface. The movable sink base can be displaced from a first position to a plurality of second positions located below the mounting surface, thereby forming a sink basin with multiple depths, wherein, in the first position, the sink base is flush with the top side of the mounting surface, such that the sink base is "hidden" and forms part of the top side of the mounting surface. The sink base may include a structure defining a peripheral drainage device around its periphery for draining water from the base. Alternatively or additionally, the sink base may include one or more drain holes formed therein. The drain holes are movable between a closed position and an open position, in which the sink base is in a first position to block one or more drain holes, and in an open position, the sink base is in one or more of the second positions. In a non-limiting embodiment, the hinged faucet assembly according to the embodiments herein is movable from a first position to one or more second positions. In the first position, the faucet assembly is located below the mounting surface, and the sink base is in a first position to shield the faucet assembly. In the one or more second positions, when the sink base is in one or more of the second positions, the hinged faucet assembly is used to dispense fluid. The faucet assembly can move in conjunction with the movable sink assembly or independently of the movable sink assembly. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a front perspective view of a faucet in its use position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0008] Figure 2 It is in a moving position according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1 A front-view stereoscopic view of the dragon's head.

[0009] Figure 3 It is in a rotating position according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1 A side-view 3D view of the dragon's head.

[0010] Figure 4 This is a side perspective view of a faucet in a rotating position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0011] Figure 5 It is in the use position according to the exemplary embodiment. Figure 4 A side-view 3D view of the dragon's head.

[0012] Figure 6 This is a front perspective view of a faucet in its use position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0013] Figure 7This is a front perspective view of a faucet in its use position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0014] Figure 8 This is a front perspective view of a faucet in its use position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0015] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the lifting component of the faucet assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0016] Figure 10 It is in the first position according to the exemplary embodiment. Figure 9 A 3D view of the enhancement components.

[0017] Figure 11 It is in the second position according to the exemplary embodiment. Figure 9 A 3D view of the enhancement components.

[0018] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of a cleaning assembly of a faucet assembly in a first position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0019] Figure 13 It is in the second position according to the exemplary embodiment. Figure 12 A 3D view of the cleaning components.

[0020] Figure 14 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 12 A three-dimensional view of a portion of the cleaning components.

[0021] Figure 15 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 12 A three-dimensional view of a portion of the cleaning components.

[0022] Figure 16 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 12 A three-dimensional view of a portion of the cleaning components.

[0023] Figure 17 According to an exemplary implementation Figure 12 A three-dimensional view of a portion of the cleaning components.

[0024] Figure 18 This is a perspective view of a faucet assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0025] Figure 19 This is a side perspective view of the internal portion of a faucet according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0026] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of the internal portion of a faucet according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0027] Figure 21This is a front perspective view of the internal portion of a faucet according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0028] Figure 22 This is a front cross-sectional view of the internal portion of a faucet according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0029] Figure 23 This is a side cross-sectional view of the internal portion of the faucet according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0030] Figure 24 This is a front perspective view of a movable water tank assembly in a first position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0031] Figure 25 This is a front cross-sectional view of the internal portion of a movable water tank assembly in a second position according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0032] Figure 26 This is a front cross-sectional view of the internal portion of a movable water tank assembly in a third position according to an exemplary embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0033] Referring generally to the accompanying drawings, this document discloses a power faucet assembly that controls faucet operation (e.g., faucet position, water flow, water temperature, etc.) based on hinges (e.g., rotation, sliding, etc.) between a portion of the faucet, such as the nozzle or base, and another portion of the faucet assembly, such as a mounting surface. The faucet assembly disclosed herein can, for example, move the faucet from a first position below the mounting surface to a second position above the mounting surface, and can further control the positioning (e.g., rotation) of various portions of the faucet with multiple hinges (e.g., rotation) between the nozzle (and its portions) and the base. The faucet of this disclosure advantageously allows for a clean and aesthetically pleasing design (e.g., a design without handles and other separate controllers) while providing intuitive control over the faucet's functions. The applicant's faucet assembly can facilitate automatic cleaning of one or more portions of the faucet and can further control the positioning of the faucet's fluid outlet relative to another portion of the faucet assembly, such as a work surface.

[0034] In some embodiments, the power faucet assembly described herein may include some or all of the features of any faucet assembly described in the following patent applications: U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 429,981, filed June 3, 2019; U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 429,970, filed June 3, 2019; U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 112,939, filed December 4, 2020; U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 284,769, filed February 25, 2019; U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 473,271, filed September 13, 2021; U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 284,707, filed September 25, 2019; and U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 982,719, filed May 17, 2018, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0035] Figures 1 to 3 An exemplary embodiment of a faucet assembly 100 is shown, which is illustrated as being movably coupled to a work surface 90 (e.g., via a mounting bracket 130) and configured to discharge fluid 93 (e.g., water directed toward a sink for washing, etc.) through an outlet 122 (e.g., by ejection, etc.). As shown, the faucet assembly 100 includes a faucet 101 having a base 102, which is movably or rotatably mounted to the work surface 90 and extends upward from the work surface 90.

[0036] In various embodiments, the base 102 may be movable or rotatable relative to the work surface 90. For example, the faucet assembly 100 may include one or more lifting mechanisms, as described in more detail below, that facilitate upward or downward movement of the faucet 101 relative to the work surface 90 between a first position (e.g., below the work surface 90, not exposed to the user, etc.) and a second position (e.g., above the work surface 90, exposed to the user, etc.). In this way, when not in use (e.g., when fluid 93 is not flowing from outlet 122), the faucet 101 may be stored in the first position below the work surface 90. When the faucet 101 is to be operated (e.g., to discharge fluid 93 toward the sink), the faucet assembly 100 may be configured to move the faucet 101 in an upward direction via mounting fastener 130, such that the faucet 101 is exposed above the work surface 90 in the second position.

[0037] In various embodiments, the faucet 101 may include a nozzle 120. As shown throughout the figures, the nozzle 120 of the faucet 101 is hinged (e.g., reconfigurable, repositionable, movable, etc.) from a first (e.g., movable) position to a second (e.g., rotatable) position and toward a third position (e.g., used). Figure 2The nozzle 120 is shown in an exemplary movable position. As shown, the outlet 122 of the first end 124 of the nozzle 120 is positioned upwards away from the work surface 90, and the base is movably coupled to the work surface 90 via a mounting fastener 130. For example, this positioning can occur when the nozzle 101 transitions from a first position (e.g., below the work surface 90) to a second position (e.g., above the work surface 90).

[0038] Figure 3 and Figure 4 The nozzle 120 is shown in various exemplary rotational positions, wherein the nozzle 120 extends partially outward on the work surface 90 (e.g., beyond the mounting fixture 130), and wherein the outlet 122 is directed toward a location from which fluid 93 is guided from the first end 124 of the nozzle 120 and toward an object or user (e.g., toward a water tank mounted in the work surface 90). In the illustrated rotational position, the second end 126 of the nozzle 120 is exposed above the work surface 90 (e.g., such that the second end 126 engages with the mounting fixture 130), and the nozzle 120 forms a curved (e.g., bow-shaped) shape, which, together with the base 102, is rotatable to a usage position (e.g., fluid 93 discharged from the outlet 122) and forms an inverted J-shaped tap 101, as shown. Figure 1 and Figure 5 As shown.

[0039] As shown throughout the accompanying drawings, the nozzle 120 includes one or more duct segments that provide articulation between the nozzle 120 (relative to the base 102) and a first, second, and third position. Figures 1 to 3 As shown, tap 101 includes four conduit segments (e.g., segment 104, segment 106, segment 108, segment 110). However, tap 101 may include any number of segments. This is by way of non-limiting example. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The faucet 101 shown includes six sections (e.g., section 104, section 106, section 108, section 110, and section 114), and Figure 6 and Figure 7 The nozzle 101 shown includes two sections (e.g., section 104, section 106). It is worth noting that the number of nozzle sections can be customized, for example, in terms of the overall size of the nozzle, the desired amount of articulation (e.g., distance), and other suitable design parameters.

[0040] While the general positioning of the faucet 101 relative to the countertop 90 has been discussed, this configuration is for illustrative purposes only. In various embodiments, the faucet 101 may be mounted to the ceiling, wall, or other parts of a kitchen, bathroom, etc., such as... Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown.

[0041] Typically, the end section of the nozzle 120 includes the outlet 122. For example... Figures 1 to 3 As shown in the exemplary embodiment, an end segment (e.g., segment 110) having an outlet 122 is hinged (e.g., rotated) relative to an adjacent segment (e.g., segment 108), but end segment 110 is not detachable from adjacent segment 108. Figure 8 As shown, the end section (e.g., section 114) can be detached from the adjacent section (e.g., section 112) to reposition the outlet 122 (and the end section leading to sections 114a and 114b) relative to the adjacent section 112.

[0042] The detachable end section 114 can be configured to be hinged (or not hinged) relative to adjacent section 112 depending on the application. The faucet 101 may have a fluid conduit (e.g., in…). Figure 8 The flexible hose 140 (shown as a flexible hose 140) is used to fluidly connect outlet 122 to a fluid source (e.g., a water source), base 102, valve, and / or another element (e.g., a component) of faucet 101. The flexible hose 140—if provided—may pass through openings, cavities, or perforations in the hollow base 102 and be arranged through these sections, as discussed in more detail below.

[0043] Figures 9 to 11 A portion of a lifting assembly 900 of a faucet assembly 100 according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. As shown, the lifting assembly 900 may include a platform 902 configured to engage with a portion of the faucet 101, such as a second end 126 of the faucet 101 (e.g., the end portion of the base 102), to facilitate vertical movement of the faucet 101 relative to a workbench 90 as described above. For example, the lifting assembly 900 may include one or more lifting structures 908 operably coupled to the platform 902 and to another portion of the faucet assembly 100 (e.g., the workbench 90, such as...). Figure 12 and Figure 13 (as shown), and is configured to facilitate lifting the faucet 101 from a first position below the worktable 90 toward a second position above the worktable 90.

[0044] In some embodiments, the lifting assembly 900 may include one or more electric motors or pneumatic power sources operatively coupled to the platform 902 or the lifting structure 908 to power the lifting assembly 900 for raising or lowering the faucet 101. For example, in some embodiments, the lifting assembly 900 may include a stepper motor, servo motor, linear motor, vane motor, piston motor, turbine motor, etc. In some embodiments, the lifting assembly 900 may include various other electric or pneumatic actuators or power sources.

[0045] In various embodiments, the lifting assembly 900 may include one or more components for facilitating the positioning of the nozzle 101. For example, the lifting assembly 900 may include a guide 904 coupled to a portion of the lifting assembly 900 and a nozzle positioning attachment 906 movably coupled to a portion of the nozzle 120. Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, when the nozzle 101 moves from the second position above the worktable 90 to the first position below the worktable 90, the guide 904 and the nozzle positioning attachment 906 can help guide the nozzle 101 to the predetermined position.

[0046] For example, when in the second position, above the work surface 90, the nozzle 101 can be moved (e.g., pushed by the user, rotated at the base, etc.). This movement of the nozzle 101 can alter the initial positioning of one or more parts of the nozzle 101, such as the nozzle 120 (e.g., from the moment the nozzle 101 first moves to the second position). To maintain the central position of the nozzle 101 (e.g., such that the outlet 122 is positioned in the same approximate location as the nozzle 101 moves from the first position to the second position), the nozzle positioning attachment 906 engages with a portion of the guide 904 (e.g., when descending from the second position to the first position). Figure 10 As the nozzle 101 continues to descend to a first position below the worktable 90, the nozzle positioning attachment 906 is guided along the guide 904, causing the nozzle 101 to rotate relative to the mounting fixture 130 toward a predetermined position (e.g., until reaching the end portion of the guide 904, as shown). Figure 11 (As shown). In this way, whenever the faucet 101 moves from the first position to the second position, the faucet 101 can move and rotate to the same position (e.g., outlet 122 position, angle, etc.).

[0047] In some embodiments, the lifting assembly 900 may include one or more sensors to detect movement or position of the faucet 101, facilitating the detection of movement of the faucet 101 in a second position (e.g., above the work surface 90). For example, the lifting assembly 900 may include a proximity sensor, a rotary motion sensor, a Hall effect sensor, an eddy current sensor, a potentiometer, an ultrasonic sensor, or other similar positioning or proximity sensors. Although Figures 9 to 11 The lifting assembly 900 shown in the exemplary embodiment includes a platform 902 positioned at the second end 126 of the faucet 101 and four structures 906 surrounding the faucet 101. However, other embodiments may include various other lifting components, including but not limited to pulleys, connecting rods, cranks, or other suitable lifting mechanisms that facilitate movement of the faucet 101 between a first position and a second position.

[0048] Figures 12 to 16 An exemplary embodiment of a cleaning component 1100 of a faucet assembly 100 is shown. As illustrated, the faucet assembly 100 includes one or more cleaning attachments 1102. For example, the cleaning attachments 1102 may be movably coupled to a portion of the faucet 101, such as... Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown. In various embodiments, the cleaning attachment 1102 can be attached to a portion of the faucet 101 at a location below the work surface 90. The cleaning attachment 1102 can be attached to the faucet 101 such that the cleaning attachment 1102 is in a first position (e.g., an upper position, such as...). Figure 12 (as shown) and the second position (e.g., the lower position, such as) Figure 13 Move between (as shown).

[0049] In various embodiments, the cleaning attachment 1102 includes one or more protrusions, shown as cleaning protrusions 1104, to facilitate the removal of debris (e.g., fluid, dirt, residue, etc.) from the nozzle 120 or from other portions of the faucet assembly 100. For example, the cleaning protrusion 1104 may be configured to engage a portion of the nozzle 120 as the nozzle 120 moves between a first position and a second position. This engagement can facilitate the removal of debris from the faucet 101 and flushing out fluid.

[0050] In various embodiments, the cleaning attachment 1102 is disposed on another part of the faucet assembly 100, such as below the mounting bracket 130. Figures 12 to 14 As shown. In various embodiments, the mounting fixture 130 includes one or more parts movably coupled to the worktable surface 90, such as... Figure 14As shown, for example, the cleaning assembly 1100 may include one or more supports 1106 for facilitating the lifting of the mounting fixture 130 in an upward direction (e.g., away from the work surface 90) to expose the cleaning attachment 1102 to the user of the faucet 101.

[0051] The cleaning attachment 1102 of the cleaning assembly 1100 can be removed in various ways. For example, the cleaning attachment 1102 can be automatically dispensed from the cleaning assembly 1100 after a certain period of time, a certain number of cycles, etc. (e.g., ejected from the second end 126 of the nozzle 120 through an opening formed by the bracket 1106). In this example, the cleaning assembly 1100 may include one or more sensors, actuators, or motors to facilitate the automatic dispensing of the cleaning attachment 1102. In another example, the cleaning attachment 1102 can be manually removed by the user according to the user's wishes.

[0052] In various embodiments, the mounting fixture 130 can help prevent the outlet 122 of the faucet 101 from being exposed to the external environment by covering a portion of the outlet 122 (e.g., when the faucet 101 is not in use or under the work surface 90). The mounting fixture 130 may include one or more components for covering the faucet 101. For example, the mounting fixture 130 may include one or more shields 1402 that extend into and protrude from an internal portion of the mounting fixture 130 to cover and expose the faucet 101, such as... Figure 14 As shown. In such an example, the faucet assembly 100 may include one or more sensors, actuators, or motors to facilitate the automatic opening and closing of the cover 1402. In another example, the mounting fastener 130 may be removably attached to the work surface 90, allowing the user to manually remove the mounting fastener 130 from the work surface 90, such as... Figure 16 As shown. For example, cleaning component 1100 may include a magnetic cap for overlapping outlet 122 or one or more portions of cleaning component 1100 when faucet 101 is not in use.

[0053] Figure 17 A portion of a cleaning assembly 1100 according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 17As shown, the faucet 101 can be configured to move such that the outlet 122 of the second end 126 of the nozzle 120 is positioned at the mounting fixture 130 (e.g., coplanar with the work surface 90, so that no part of the section is exposed above the work surface 90). This configuration allows the faucet 101 to perform various cleaning tasks. By way of example, a user can place tableware 1702, such as cups, mugs, bowls, etc., on a portion of the outlet 122. The user can then initiate the flow of fluid 93 from the faucet 101 to dispense from the outlet 122 while the tableware 1702 remains placed above the outlet 122. Thus, the fluid 93 can be sprayed in an upward direction (e.g., toward the tableware 1702, opposite the work surface 90, etc.) to clean the tableware 1702. In various embodiments, the cleaning assembly 1100 may include one or more drain channels formed within a portion of the faucet assembly 100 (e.g., within the mounting fixture 130) to facilitate the discharge of excess fluid or debris from the cutlery 1702 toward a drain device below the countertop 90 or toward a sink mounted within the countertop 90.

[0054] Figure 18 A perspective view of a faucet assembly 100 according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 18 The faucet assembly 100 is shown separately (i.e., without the work surface 90) to illustrate its configuration in more detail. In various embodiments, the work surface 90 may be generally positioned within region 1805. For example... Figure 18 As shown, the lifting component 900, the cleaning component 1100, and the faucet 101 can all be operably connected to each other to form the faucet component 100. Although Figure 18 The exemplary implementation shown includes a lifting component 900, a cleaning component 1100, and a faucet 101, but it should be understood that the faucet component 100 may include more or fewer components.

[0055] Figures 19 to 23 An exemplary embodiment of a section of the head 101 is shown. For example... Figure 20 As shown, the segment (e.g., segment 104) includes a hollow body 2002. Each body 2002 defines a portion of the exterior (e.g., external shape) of the nozzle 120 and the head 101. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the body of each segment defines the configuration of the nozzle 120 (e.g., shape, aesthetic finish, etc.). The body of each segment can be complementary to the body of another segment or the base 102. Figures 19 to 24As shown, the hollow body 2002 may be in a generally cylindrical shape or an extruded elliptical shape (e.g., a cylinder with an elliptical cross-section rather than a circular cross-section) having a cavity 2004, in which various internal components are received. For example, the body 2002 may include one or more gears, as will be discussed below. In various embodiments, the hollow body 2002 may have a variety of other shapes, including but not limited to cylindrical, rectangular, triangular, or other shapes.

[0056] like Figures 19 to 23 As shown, each nozzle 120 may include at least one drive section (e.g., in...). Figures 19 to 23 The diagram shows a driving section 104 and at least two driven sections (e.g., in...). Figures 19 to 23 The driven section 102 and driven section 106 are shown in the diagram. At this point, the fixed base section at the base of the head (e.g., section 102) can be considered a driven section because it is driven from the reference frame of the adjacent drive section (e.g., section 104). As will be described, drive section 104 is configured to receive power from one or more power sources (e.g., electric, pneumatic, etc.) and is configured to cause each driven section 102 and driven section 106 to rotate relative to drive section 104. Although in Figures 19 to 23 Only one drive section is shown, but it is important to note that various implementations can include any number of drive sections in various configurations. For example, as Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, an implementation with a total of five segments may include two drive segments (e.g., segment 104 and segment 108). Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, an implementation with a total of seven sections may include three drive sections (e.g., section 104, section 108, and section 112). Typically, the faucet may include any number of total sections, with every other section being a drive section. For example, an implementation with a total of three sections may include a drive section in the middle and driven sections on each side. An implementation with a total of five sections may have two drive sections (e.g., a second section and a fourth section), where the remaining sections are driven sections.

[0057] Figure 19A portion of the interior of a section of faucet 101 (e.g., the internal components of driven sections 102 and 106 connected to the transparent drive section 104) is shown. Driven sections 102 and 106 each include an angled gear 1902 circumferentially surrounding an opening 2006 for receiving a portion of a hose (e.g., a flexible hose connected to a water source). In various other embodiments, the gear may not surround the opening 2006. In various embodiments, each angled gear 1902 is integrally coupled to the interior portion of the corresponding driven section (e.g., a first angled gear 1902 coupled to driven section 102 and a second angled gear 1902 coupled to driven section 106, such as...). Figure 19 (As shown). For example, each angled gear 1902 can be coupled to its corresponding driven section, such that section rotates when the angled gear 1902 rotates. Figure 19 As shown, each angled gear 1902 can protrude from a portion of its corresponding section into the interior of the drive section 104 to engage with the driving gear within the drive section, as discussed in more detail below. For example, each angled gear 1902 can be coupled to one or more gear shafts 1908 to extend from a portion of its corresponding driven section and engage with bearing components, as described below.

[0058] Figure 20 The drive section of the faucet 101 is shown (e.g., set in...). Figure 19 A perspective view of the drive section 104 between the driven section 102 and the driven section 106 shown. Figure 20 As shown, the drive section 104 may include two bearing components 2010 for receiving a portion of another section (e.g., an angled gear 1902 of the driven section, such as...). Figure 19 (As shown). For example, bearing component 2010 may be coupled to an internal portion of the segment body—shown as body 2002. In various embodiments, body 2002 is a hollow body that includes a cavity 2004 that receives various internal components of a segment, including an angled gear 1902, bearing component 2010, or a flexible tube disposed through opening 2006.

[0059] like Figure 20As shown, the bearing component 2010 may circumferentially surround a longitudinal opening 2006 extending through the bearing component 2010 to accommodate and / or house other elements / components of the faucet 101. In various embodiments, the bearing component 2010 includes one or more flanges 2012 extending radially outward around at least a portion of the section 104 to facilitate the connection of the bearing component 2010 and various internal features disposed within the bearing component 2010 (e.g., flexible hoses, gear shaft 1908, etc.) to the section 104. When assembled, the gear shaft 1908 of the driven gear may extend through the bearing component 2010 of the adjacent drive section such that an angled gear 1902 engages the driving gear within the adjacent drive section. The gear shaft 1908 may rotate within the bearing component 2010 as the adjacent sections rotate relative to each other.

[0060] As if penetrating Figures 20 to 23 As shown, the drive section 104 may include a drive gear 2008. In various embodiments, the drive gear 2008 is disposed along a side portion of the interior of the body 2002. In various embodiments, the drive gear 2008 extends at least partially between each angled gear 1902. In this configuration, the teeth of the drive gear 2008 mesh with the teeth of a first angled gear 1902 at a portion of the drive gear 2008, and the teeth of a second angled gear 1902 mesh with the teeth of the drive gear 2008 at another portion of the drive gear 2008, as... Figure 21 As can be seen in the diagram. In this way, rotation of the drive gear 2008 causes rotation of each driven gear 1902, which in turn causes rotation of each driven segment (e.g., segments 102 and 106) relative to the reference frame of the drive gear. If a given driven segment is held at a fixed position relative to the reference frame of an external observer (e.g., segment 102 at the base of the faucet), the relative rotation between the driven segment and the drive segment causes the drive segment to rotate from the reference frame of the external observer (e.g., the user). In various embodiments, the drive gear 2008 differs in size from the angled gear 1902.

[0061] By way of example, the dimensions of the drive gear 2008 can be designed such that a half-turn (e.g., a 180° turn) of the drive gear 2008 can cause a full turn (e.g., a 360° turn) of each angled gear 1902. In various embodiments, each angled gear 1902 can be the same size or shape. In various other embodiments, the size or shape of the angled gears 1902 can be different.

[0062] In various embodiments, each angled gear 1902 may be positioned relative to the longitudinal axis of the head 101 in a movable position (e.g., extending from the first end 124 to the second end 126). Figure 23 The central axis 2310 (represented by the axis) is set at an angle. By way of example, each angled gear 1902 can be set at an angle of 20 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis (as shown by the axis). Figure 23 The angle between the central axis 2310 and the angled gear axis 2306 is represented by the angle between the central axis 2310 and the angled gear axis 2306. In this way, the teeth of the drive gear 2008 can generate a greater driving force on each tooth of the angled gear 1902 in each driven section (e.g., compared to the angled gear 1902 being set at a smaller angle relative to the central longitudinal axis). In various other examples, the angled gear 1902 can be set at an angle greater than or less than 20 degrees. In various embodiments, the angled gear 1902 can be set at equal and opposite angles relative to the longitudinal axis of the faucet 101, such as... Figure 19 , Figure 21 and Figure 23 As shown.

[0063] In various embodiments, the angled gear 1902 may be integrally connected to the driven section 102, such that rotation of the angled gear 1902 causes rotation of the driven section. By way of example, rotation of the angled gear 1902 may cause rotation of the driven section 102 relative to another section of the faucet 101. In various embodiments, the angled gear 1902 may be integrally connected to the driven section 106, such that rotation of the angled gear 1902 causes rotation of the driven section 106. By way of example, rotation of the angled gear 1902 may cause rotation of the driven section 106 relative to the drive section 104. In various embodiments, the drive gear 2008 may be rotatably connected to the drive section 104, such that the drive gear 2008 can rotate freely even when the drive section 104 is fixed in place.

[0064] In various embodiments, the rotation of the drive gear 2008 is caused by a motor (e.g., in...). Figure 23 The motor housing 2302 (shown as motor housing 2302) causes rotation of the drive gear 2008. For example, the motor can be operably coupled to the drive gear 2008 (e.g., via one or more shafts, shaft portions, bearings, etc.) to cause rotation of the drive gear 2008. In various embodiments, the motor housing 2302 and the motor housing 2302 are connected to the drive gear 2008 (e.g., Figure 23The shaft portion 2304 shown can be rigidly connected to the drive section 104, allowing the drive gear 2008 to rotate relative to the section 106 about the shaft portion 2304. The rotation of the drive gear 2008 about the shaft portion 2304 can then rotate each angled gear 1902 (e.g., in equal and opposite directions). By way of example, the motor can rotate the drive gear 2008 clockwise (by...). Figure 21 (Indicated by arrow 2104). When the drive gear 2008 rotates in the direction shown, each angled gear 1902 rotates in the same and opposite directions around the center of the faucet 101, as shown. Figure 21 Arrows 2102 and 2106 are shown in the diagram. In this way, each driven section (e.g.,) is connected to the angled gear 1902. Figure 21 Segments 102 and 106 rotate simultaneously with the corresponding angled gear 1902. For example, segment 102 rotates in the direction indicated by arrow 2102, and segment 106 rotates in the direction indicated by arrow 2106.

[0065] Figure 22 A front cross-sectional view of the drive section 104 according to an exemplary embodiment is shown, and Figure 23 A side cross-sectional view of the drive section 104 according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 22 and Figure 23 As shown, the drive gear 2008 can be arranged along the side portion of the drive section 104, such that the teeth of the drive gear 2008 (in) Figure 22 The tooth 2202 (shown as tooth 2202) can mesh with the teeth of each angled gear 1902. In various embodiments, the teeth 2202 of the drive gear 2008 can be angled relative to the axis of rotation of the drive gear 2008 to contact the angled teeth of each angled gear 1902.

[0066] like Figures 19 to 23As shown, each segment includes an angled end portion 1906. Each segment may have an elliptical cross-section along a first cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the segment. However, each segment may have a circular cross-section along a second cross-sectional plane parallel to the angled end portion 1906. In other words, the periphery of each angled end portion 1906 may be circular along a second cross-sectional plane aligned with the angled end portion 1906. Advantageously, this allows adjacent segments to rotate relative to each other while the circular peripheries of their angled end portions 1906 remain aligned along their entire periphery. In various embodiments, the angled end portions 1906 may be substantially parallel to each corresponding angled gear 1902, as shown throughout the figures. This configuration allows each segment to rotate by an angle (e.g., as described above, by the angle of the angled gear 1902). For example, segment 102 rotates relative to drive segment 104 (e.g., about central axis 2310) at angles between the central axes of segments of drive segment 104—as shown by the angle between axis 2306 (the central axis of the angled gear 1902) and axis 2310 (the central axis of drive segment 104). Similarly, segment 106 rotates relative to drive segment 104 (e.g., about central axis 2310) at angles between the central axes of segment 106—as shown by the angle between axis 2308 (the central axis of the angled gear 1902) and axis 2310 (the central axis of drive segment 104). This angular rotation between each segment alters the overall shape of the faucet 101, as shown by the through-type rotation. Figures 1 to 8 As shown, this does not result in misalignment or disengagement of the sections relative to each other (e.g., the angled gear 1902 of the driven section is kept connected to a portion of the drive section, for example, by bearing components 2010, etc.).

[0067] Although the drive gear 2008 shown throughout the embodiment in the figures is a pinion and the angled gear 1902 shown throughout the embodiment in the figures is a helical gear, various other types of gears can be used to operate the faucet, including but not limited to spur gears, helical gears, worm gears, racks and pinions.

[0068] The drive gear 2008 can be operated by various devices, including but not limited to pneumatic motors or electric motors. For example, the faucet assembly 100 may include one or more wires or cables laid through a portion of each section to operably connect one or more motors to a power source. In another example, the faucet assembly 100 may include one or more cables, conduits, etc., to supply gas, pressurized air, etc., to these sections to facilitate pneumatic operation of the faucet assembly 100.

[0069] In various embodiments, the faucet assembly 100 may include one or more safety features or components. For example, the faucet assembly 100 may include one or more pressure sensors to detect pressure placed on a portion of the faucet 101 in a moving or rotating position. The faucet assembly 100 may include one or more control systems communicatively coupled to sensors or to other parts of the faucet assembly 100 to control the faucet 101. In this way, the faucet assembly 100 may be configured to detect user interaction with the faucet 101 during movement or rotation (e.g., when the faucet 101 moves between a first and a second position, or when one or more segments rotate), and subsequently stop the faucet assembly 100 from operation (e.g., stop movement, stop rotation). This configuration can provide a safety mechanism to protect the user of the faucet assembly 100 from injury (e.g., from being pinched, from excessive heat exposure to electric current, etc.).

[0070] Although Figures 19 to 23 Only one driving section and two driven sections are described and shown, but the same configuration of sections can continue in multiple similarly connected sections, thus forming head 101. For example, Figures 19 to 23 The segment 106 shown may include a second angled gear 1902, which is coupled to a second end of the segment 106 and configured to be coupled to another drive segment (e.g., such as...). Figures 1 to 5 The second drive gear 2008 of segment 108 shown engages. Similarly, segment 108 can then be coupled to another driven segment (e.g., segment 110) having one or more angled gears 1902. It is important to note that each segment can include either a drive segment configuration or a driven segment configuration. For example, in Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiments, segment 104 can be a driving segment or a driven segment. Similarly, segment 106 can be a driving segment or a driven segment, etc. In various embodiments, every other segment can be changed between a driving segment and a driven segment. For example, still referring to... Figure 4 In the implementation shown, segment 104 can be a driving segment, segment 106 can be a driven segment, segment 108 can be a driving segment, etc.

[0071] Figures 24 to 26An exemplary embodiment of an articulated sink assembly is shown, which can optionally be used in combination with the faucet assembly described herein. The sink assembly 200 may include a cabinet 91 having a countertop 90 and a base 202, the base 202 being movably mounted in the cabinet 91 via a lifting assembly (not shown), such as the exemplary lifting assembly described herein. In the exemplary embodiment, the sink base 202 can be displaced relative to the countertop 90 between multiple locations or depths. Figure 24 As shown, the sink base 202 can be positioned in a first location where the top surface 204 of the sink base 202 is flush with the work surface 90, such that the sink assembly 200 is concealed or hidden, and the sink base 202 can be used as a work surface. In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the sink base 202 may be formed of the same or similar material as the work surface 90, or alternatively, the sink base 202 may be formed of a different material than the work surface 90.

[0072] like Figure 24 As depicted, the sink base 202 is defined on one or more sides by peripheral drainage devices 206, which allow fluid to drain around the sink base 202. Additionally or alternatively, the sink base 202 may include one or more drainage holes (not shown) that allow fluid to drain from the sink base 202 into a bottom portion (not shown) of the sink assembly 200. Additionally or alternatively, the bottom portion 208 may include one or more drainage holes 209 that allow fluid to drain from the sink assembly 200. Whether located in the sink base 202 or the bottom portion 208, the drainage holes may optionally be displaced between an open position, in which fluid will drain through the drainage hole, and in a closed position, preventing fluid from draining through the drainage hole.

[0073] like Figure 25As depicted, the sink base 202 is movable to a second position in which the top surface 204 is spaced below the countertop 90 and above the bottom portion 208, thereby defining the bottom surface of the sink basin 210 and defining the side wall 212 of the cabinet 91. In this embodiment, the power faucet 100, such as the power faucet described herein, can be actuated to the usage position shown, such that the sink assembly 200 can be used as a sink basin even if the sink base 202 is not positioned at the bottom portion 208 of the cabinet 91, or the power faucet 100 can be held in an unused concealed position or other position. In an exemplary embodiment, the sink base 202 can move along the depth of the sink assembly 200 determined by the user at any of a plurality of positions. In an alternative embodiment, the sink base 202 can move along the depth of the sink assembly 200 to one or more predetermined or pre-programmed positions.

[0074] like Figure 26 As depicted, the base 202 of the water tank can be moved to another position where the base 202 of the water tank is adjacent to the bottom portion 208, thereby forming a more... Figure 25 The depicted basin is a deeper sink basin 210. In this embodiment, the power faucet 100, such as the power faucet described herein, can be actuated to the usage position shown in the figure, so that the sink assembly 200 can be used as a sink basin, even if the sink base 202 is not positioned at the bottom portion 208 of the cabinet 91, or the power faucet 100 can be held in an unused hidden position or other position.

[0075] In other exemplary embodiments not shown, the sink base may also be movable in the lateral direction, for example, within a recess formed in the side of a cabinet or countertop, or slidable on the top of the countertop. In another exemplary embodiment, individual sections of the sink base may be movable independently of each other, such that for smaller basins, only a portion of the sink base is lowered, or the sections have different heights, thus creating a multi-basin sink. In all embodiments, the sink assembly may be moved via voice activation, remote activation, motion sensing, and / or button or switch activation.

[0076] As used herein, the terms “about,” “approximately,” “substantially,” and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning consistent with common and generally accepted usage by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. Those skilled in the art who examine this disclosure will understand that these terms are intended to allow for the description of certain features described and claimed, without limiting the scope of these features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Therefore, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that non-substantial or insignificant modifications or alterations to the described and claimed subject matter are considered to be within the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

[0077] As used herein, the terms “link” and “connection” mean that two components are directly or indirectly linked together. Such a link can be static (e.g., permanent) or movable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such a link can be achieved by the two components, or the two components and any additional intermediate components, being integrally formed into a single unit, or by the two components, or the two components and any additional intermediate components, being attached to each other.

[0078] A reference to "or" can be interpreted as inclusive, such that any term described using "or" can refer to a single term, more than one term, or any one of all the terms described. A reference to at least one of a union list of terms can be interpreted as an inclusive "or" to refer to a single term, more than one term, or any one of all the terms described. For example, a reference to "at least one of 'A' and 'B'" can include only 'A', include only 'B', or include both 'A' and 'B'. Such references, used in conjunction with "include" or other open terms, can include additional terms.

[0079] References to the location of elements in this document (e.g., "top", "bottom", "above", "below", etc.) are used only to describe the orientation of the various elements in the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the orientation of the various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and these variations are intended to be covered by this disclosure.

[0080] The construction and arrangement of the components of the hinged faucet shown in the exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative. Although only a few embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail, those skilled in the art will readily understand that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in the size, dimensions, structure, shape and proportions, parameter values, mounting arrangements, use of materials, color, orientation, etc.) without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter. For example, an element shown as integrally formed may be composed of multiple parts or components, the positions of the components may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete components or positions may be altered or varied.

[0081] Additionally, the word "exemplary" is used to indicate that it is used as an example, instance, or illustration. Any implementation or design described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations or designs (and such terminology is not intended to imply that such implementation is necessarily an extraordinary or superior example). Rather, the use of the word "exemplary" is intended to present the concept in a concrete manner. Therefore, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure. Other substitutions, modifications, alterations, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangements of the preferred exemplary implementation and other exemplary implementations without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

[0082] Where reference numerals follow a technical feature in the drawings, detailed descriptions, or any claims, the included reference numerals serve to enhance the comprehensibility of the drawings, detailed descriptions, and claims. Therefore, reference numerals, and their omission, do not limit the scope of any claim's elements.

[0083] Other substitutions, modifications, alterations, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangements of various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, any element disclosed in one embodiment (e.g., base, nozzle, section, etc.) may be combined with or used in any other embodiment disclosed herein. Furthermore, for example, the order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or reordered according to alternative embodiments. Any device-plus-function clause is intended to cover the structure described herein for performing the function, and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures. Other substitutions, modifications, alterations, and omissions may be made in the design, operating configuration, and arrangement of preferred embodiments and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A tap assembly, comprising: The faucet, including: Base, the base being configured to be movably coupled to a mounting surface; and The nozzle is rotatably connected to the base, and the nozzle has a plurality of conduits, each of which is rotatably connected to each other via angled connectors. The nozzle extends from the base to a free end, the free end including an outlet for discharging fluid; and The first catheter of the plurality of catheters is configured to rotate relative to the base from a first rotational position toward a second rotational position, and the second catheter of the plurality of catheters is configured to rotate in response to the rotation of the first catheter. The first conduit includes an actuator assembly and a pinion connected to the actuator assembly. The second conduit is rigidly connected to an angled bevel gear, and the pinion meshes with the angled bevel gear to drive the second conduit to rotate through actuation of the actuator assembly.

2. The faucet assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The first catheter rotates relative to the base in a first rotation direction, and the second catheter rotates relative to the first catheter in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction.

3. The faucet assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a third and a fourth catheter among the plurality of catheters, wherein, The third catheter is configured to rotate relative to the second catheter, and the fourth catheter is configured to rotate in response to the rotation of the third catheter.

4. The faucet assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The actuator assembly includes at least one of an electric actuator or a pneumatic actuator.

5. The faucet assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The actuator assembly includes a motor, a gearbox assembly, and a power cable. The gearbox assembly is operatively connected to the motor and the first conduit, and the power cable is operatively connected to an internal portion of the first conduit and the motor and configured to supply power to the motor.

6. The faucet assembly of claim 1, further comprising a lifting assembly disposed on a first side of the mounting surface and configured to move the nozzle between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the nozzle is disposed at least partially close to the first side of the mounting surface, and in the second position the nozzle is disposed at least partially close to the second side of the mounting surface.

7. The faucet assembly according to claim 6 further includes a positioning assembly, the positioning assembly having a guide and a nozzle positioning attachment, wherein, The nozzle positioning attachment is configured to engage with the guide when the nozzle moves from the second position to the first position.

8. The faucet assembly according to claim 6, wherein, The nozzle outlet is located in the first position near the first side of the mounting surface.

9. The faucet assembly according to claim 6, wherein, The lifting assembly is configured to move the nozzle to a cleaning position such that the outlet of the nozzle is coplanar with the mounting surface.

10. The faucet assembly of claim 1, further comprising a cleaning attachment removably coupled to a portion of the nozzle.

11. The faucet assembly according to claim 10, wherein, The cleaning attachment is configured to move between a first cleaning position and a second cleaning position to facilitate cleaning of the nozzle.

12. The faucet assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of catheters includes at least four catheters, each of the at least four catheters being rotatably connected to each other.

13. A faucet, comprising: A base portion configured to be movably coupled to a mounting surface having a first side portion and a second side portion; The nozzle is rotatably connected to the base, and the nozzle has a plurality of conduits, each of which is rotatably connected to each other via angled connectors. The nozzle extends from the base to a free end, the free end including an outlet for discharging fluid; and The first catheter of the plurality of catheters is configured to rotate relative to the base from a first rotational position toward a second rotational position, and the second catheter of the plurality of catheters is configured to rotate in response to the rotation of the first catheter. The first conduit includes an actuator assembly and a pinion connected to the actuator assembly. The second conduit is rigidly connected to an angled bevel gear, and the pinion meshes with the angled bevel gear to drive the second conduit to rotate through actuation of the actuator assembly.

14. The faucet according to claim 13, wherein, The first catheter rotates in a first rotation direction, and the second catheter rotates in a second rotation direction, wherein the second rotation direction is different from the first rotation direction.

15. The faucet according to claim 13, further comprising a third and a fourth catheter among the plurality of catheters, wherein, The third catheter is configured to rotate relative to the second catheter, and the fourth catheter is configured to rotate in response to the rotation of the third catheter.

16. The faucet according to claim 13, wherein, The actuator assembly has at least one of an electric actuator or a pneumatic actuator, the electric actuator or the pneumatic actuator being configured to rotate the second conduit.

17. The faucet according to claim 13, wherein, The plurality of catheters includes at least four catheters, each of the at least four catheters being rotatably connected to each other.

18. The faucet according to claim 13, wherein, The nozzle has a cylindrical shape, and each of the plurality of conduits has an elliptical cross-section.

19. A sink assembly configured to be installed in a cabinet having a countertop, the sink assembly comprising: A sink base, the sink base being movable relative to the work surface, wherein the sink base is configured to move between a first position and a plurality of second positions, wherein in the first position the sink base is flush with the work surface, and in the plurality of second positions the sink base is positioned below the work surface, thereby defining the bottom wall of the sink basin, wherein the sink basin in each of the plurality of second positions has a different depth; The faucet, wherein the faucet includes: A base portion configured to be movably coupled to a mounting surface having a first side portion and a second side portion; The nozzle is rotatably connected to the base, and the nozzle has a plurality of conduits, each of which is rotatably connected to each other via angled connectors. The nozzle extends from the base to a free end, the free end including an outlet for discharging fluid; and The first catheter of the plurality of catheters is configured to rotate relative to the base from a first rotational position toward a second rotational position, and the second catheter of the plurality of catheters is configured to rotate in response to the rotation of the first catheter. The first conduit includes an actuator assembly and a pinion coupled to the actuator assembly. The second conduit is rigidly coupled to an angled bevel gear, the pinion meshing with the angled bevel gear to drive the second conduit to rotate by actuation of the actuator assembly.

Images