Faucet comprising a steam generator

Abstract

A wash basin having a water basin and a steam generator. The water basin has a drain and a water basin steam outlet. The steam generator has a water inlet, a water tank configured to store water received at the water inlet, a heater configured to heat the water to generate steam, and a generator steam outlet configured to output the steam. A coupling element couples the steam generator to the water basin, and a steam outlet conduit fluidly connects the generator steam outlet to the water basin steam outlet. The water basin steam outlet is located on a rear wall of the water basin.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Indian Patent Application No. 202311036754, filed on May 27, 2023, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates generally to washbasins, and more particularly to washbasins that include a steam generator. Background Technology

[0004] Washbasins can be used in toilets and other wash areas, such as bathrooms and toilets. In many implementations, steam generators are also required in these wash areas. While separate steam generators can be provided, these require separate installation and take up valuable space in the wash area.

[0005] Improvements are needed to make the steam generator easier and more compact to install. Further improvements are also needed to facilitate streamlined interfaces for the steam generator. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application discloses a washbasin having a basin, a steam generator, a connecting element, and a steam outlet conduit. The basin has a drain and a steam outlet. The steam generator has an inlet, a tank configured to store water received at the inlet, a heater configured to heat the water to generate steam, and a generator steam outlet configured to output steam. The connecting element connects the steam generator to the basin. The steam outlet conduit fluidly connects the generator steam outlet to the basin steam outlet. The basin steam outlet is located on the rear wall of the basin.

[0007] This application also discloses a method for generating steam. First, a washbasin is provided, comprising a basin and a steam generator connected to the basin. Second, steam is generated within the steam generator. Third, steam is delivered from the generator steam outlet of the steam generator to the basin steam outlet via a steam outlet conduit. The basin steam outlet is located on the rear wall of the basin.

[0008] This application also discloses a washbasin having a basin, a steam generator, a connecting element, and a steam outlet conduit. The basin has a drain section, a basin steam outlet, a front section, and a rear section. The front and rear sections are located on opposite sides of the drain section. The steam generator has a water inlet, a water tank configured to store water received at the water inlet, a heater configured to heat the water to generate steam, and a generator steam outlet configured to output steam. The connecting element connects the steam generator to the basin. The steam outlet conduit fluidly connects the generator steam outlet to the basin steam outlet. The steam generator is suspended below the front section of the basin by the connecting element, and the steam outlet conduit extends from below the front section of the basin to the basin steam outlet.

[0009] Other applicability of the invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided below. It should be understood that while the detailed description and specific examples illustrate preferred embodiments of the invention, they are for illustrative purposes only and not for limiting the scope of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0010] The invention will be more fully understood from the detailed description and accompanying drawings, wherein similar elements are labeled similarly, wherein:

[0011] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional diagram of a washbasin based on the contents of this disclosure;

[0012] Figure 2 This is its main view;

[0013] Figure 3 This is its rear view;

[0014] Figure 4 It is its right view;

[0015] Figure 5 It is its left view;

[0016] Figure 6 This is its top view;

[0017] Figure 7 It is its bottom view;

[0018] Figure 8 It is its exploded diagram;

[0019] Figure 9 It is a schematic diagram illustrating its pipes and electrical wiring;

[0020] Figure 10 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of a portion of the steam generator of a washbasin;

[0021] Figure 11 This is a rear-view 3D view of its bottom;

[0022] Figure 12 It is along Figure 10 The cross-sectional view of line 12-12;

[0023] Figure 13 It is along Figure 10 The cross-sectional view of line 13-13;

[0024] Figure 14 yes Figure 1 A 3D diagram of a washbasin basin;

[0025] Figure 15 This is its main view;

[0026] Figure 16 This is its rear view;

[0027] Figure 17 It is its right view;

[0028] Figure 18 It is its left view;

[0029] Figure 19 This is its top view;

[0030] Figure 20 It is its bottom view;

[0031] Figure 21 It is its exploded diagram;

[0032] Figure 22 yes Figure 1 A 3D view of the steam generator in a washbasin;

[0033] Figure 23 This is its main view;

[0034] Figure 24 This is its rear view;

[0035] Figure 25 It is its right view;

[0036] Figure 26 It is its left view;

[0037] Figure 27 This is its top view;

[0038] Figure 28 It is its bottom view; and

[0039] Figure 29 yes Figure 1 A 3D view of the control panel of the washbasin.

[0040] All accompanying drawings are schematic and not necessarily drawn to scale. Unless otherwise stated herein, features numbered in some drawings but not in others are the same features. Detailed Implementation

[0041] The features and advantages of the present invention are illustrated and described herein by reference to non-limiting examples, in which various aspects of this disclosure may be realized. The description of these examples should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings or photographs, which should be considered an integral part of the entire written specification. Therefore, this disclosure should not be explicitly limited to illustrating examples of non-limiting combinations of possible features, which may exist individually or in other combinations of the features disclosed herein.

[0042] In the examples described herein, any references to direction or orientation are merely for ease of description and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way. Relative terms such as “lower,” “upper,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “above,” “below,” “up,” “top,” and “bottom,” and their derivatives (such as “horizontally,” “downward,” “upward,” etc.), should be understood to refer to the orientation described at the time or shown in the drawings under discussion. These relative terms are for ease of description only and do not require the device to be constructed or operated in a specific orientation. Terms such as “attach,” “attach,” “connect,” “link,” and “interconnect” similarly refer to a relationship in which structures are directly or indirectly fixed or attached to each other through an intermediate structure, and to movable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless otherwise expressly stated.

[0043] Throughout this document, any ranges disclosed herein are used as shorthand for describing each value within the range. Any value within the range may be chosen as the endpoint of the range.

[0044] Figures 1 to 8 A washbasin 10 is shown, comprising a basin 100, a steam generator 200, a plurality of connecting elements 20, a first steam outlet conduit 40 and a second steam outlet conduit 40, and a control panel 60. The basin 100 is connected to the steam generator 200 by the plurality of connecting elements 20, said connecting elements 20 including brackets 21 and fasteners 22. The connecting elements 20 may be made of sheet metal, plastic, or any other desired material and are used to mount the steam generator 200 to the basin 100. In other configurations, only a single bracket 21 may be used. Further optionally, the fastener 22 may be a snap-fit ​​feature on the bracket 21 to enable a simple and secure installation while reducing the number of parts.

[0045] The basin 100 has a top edge 102 defining an opening 104 leading to a chamber 106. The chamber 106 is configured to collect water or other liquids. The top edge 102 may define a top plane PP. The top plane PP contacts the surface of the top edge 102. The entire top edge 102 may contact the top plane PP, or only a portion of the top edge 102 may contact the top plane PP. No portion of the top edge 102 extends beyond the top plane PP. In other words, the entire basin 100 lies below the top plane PP, and no portion of the top plane PP extends through the basin 100. The top plane PP contacts the basin 100 but does not extend through it.

[0046] A chamber 106 of the basin 100 is defined by an inner surface 110, which is formed by a plurality of walls of the basin 100. The chamber 106 extends from an opening 104 at a top edge 102 to a drain portion 108 located within a base plate 120 of the basin 100. The basin 100 has a rear wall 112, a front wall 114 opposite to the rear wall 112, and left and right walls 116 and 118. The rear wall 112, front wall 114, left and right walls 116 and 118 meet at the base plate 120. The drain portion 108 is formed in the base plate 120 and extends through the base plate 120 to a drain outlet 111 located below the base plate 120. The drain portion 108 may have a cover 109 or may simply be an opening connected to the drain outlet 111, which receives a drain pipe or other conduit. The cover 109 can be used as a shield to prevent larger items from falling into the drain section 108 and being lost by having a constriction (e.g., an elongated groove or other feature) in at least one dimension. The drain section 108 may optionally be a plurality of holes connected to a drain pipe, rather than a single hole or opening, and when connected to the drain section 108, the cover 109 may form a series of holes or a single opening leading to the drain pipe.

[0047] The central plane MM is located midway between the drain section 108 and the top plane PP. The central plane MM is parallel to the top plane PP but spaced apart from it. The central plane MM is positioned exactly midway between the opening leading to the drain section 108 and the top plane PP. Furthermore, the central plane CC is positioned perpendicular to the top plane PP, and the basin 100 is symmetrical about the central plane CC. The central plane CC extends through the drain section 108, the rear wall 112, the front wall 114, and the base plate 120.

[0048] The sink 100 has a body 101, which can be formed of ceramic material, composite material including resin, metallic material, or any other known material suitable for use in humid environments. For example, the sink 100 can be made of porcelain or glass, fiberglass material, or stainless steel. Any material can be used without limitation, as long as it does not degrade in water. Optionally, the sink 100 may have a construction for adapting to a faucet. In other implementations, such as the one illustrated, the sink 100 may not have holes or other features configured to receive a faucet. Instead, the sink 100 can be mounted to a support structure, and the faucet can also be mounted to the support structure.

[0049] The basin 100 further includes a first basin steam outlet 130 and a second basin steam outlet 130, the latter located on the rear wall 112 of the basin 100. The basin steam outlet 130 is a separate component, installed within an aperture 132 in the basin 100. A bezel 134 is installed on the basin steam outlet 130 to cover the aperture 132. A sealing element 136 seals the basin steam outlet 130 to the rear wall 112 of the basin 100. A ziplock 138 extends through the ziplock 134 and engages with the basin steam outlet 130. A cover 139 is installed on the ziplock 134 to secure the ziplock 138 and further cover the portion of the ziplock 134 and the basin steam outlet 130. The basin steam outlet 130 is configured for connection to a first steam outlet conduit 40 and a second steam outlet conduit 40. The basin steam outlet 130 may have a fitting 41 at each end. Fitting 41 may be a threaded connection or any other suitable connection mechanism that provides a tight fluid connection to the steam outlet conduit 40.

[0050] The basin steam outlet 130 is located above the middle plane MM and on the opposite side of the center plane CC, and may have an angle of approximately 6 degrees relative to the top plane PP. The basin steam outlet 130 is symmetrical about the center plane CC between the middle plane MM and the top edge 102. Therefore, the basin steam outlet 130 is located between the center plane MM and the top plane PP. The concave groove 134 and the cover 139 are also symmetrical about the center plane CC, but extend from one side of the center plane CC to the opposite side of the center plane CC, intersecting the center plane CC. Optionally, the basin steam outlet 130 may be tilted greater than or less than 6 degrees to better direct steam to the user. The drain 108 and the cover 109 are also symmetrical about the center plane CC and extend through the center plane CC, intersecting the center plane CC. In some other implementations, the concave groove 134, the cover 139, the drain 108, and the cover 109 may be multiple separate components that do not intersect the center plane CC.

[0051] The rear wall 112 of the basin 100 is divided into an inner wall portion 121 and an outer wall portion 122. The inner wall portion 121 forms part of the inner surface 110. The outer wall portion 122 is spaced apart from the inner wall portion 121 to form a rear wall chamber 123. A hole 124 is provided in the rear wall chamber 123. The hole 124 extends through the lower portion 125 of the rear wall 112, providing a passage to the inner wall portion 121. Thus, the rear wall 112 is formed such that the inner wall portion 121 and the outer wall portion 122 are connected at the top edge 102 of the basin 100.

[0052] The inner wall portion 121 and the outer wall portion 122 are also connected by a lower portion 125, which faces the top edge 102 of the basin 100. In other implementations, the rear wall 112 may be formed as a single wall with or without the lower portion 125. The basin steam outlet 130 is located within the rear wall chamber 123 and extends through a hole 132 in the basin 100. The hole 132 is formed to pass through the inner wall portion 121 but does not extend through the outer wall portion 122 or the lower portion 125. A steam outlet conduit 40 extends through a hole 124 into the wall chamber 123 and connects to the basin steam outlet 130 within the rear wall chamber 123.

[0053] Steam generator 200 includes a housing 202 having a generally rectangular shape. Housing 202 is configured to receive fasteners 22 that connect a bracket 21 to housing 202. Steam generator 200 also includes an inlet 204, an outlet 206, a first generator steam outlet 208, and a second generator steam outlet 208. For better illustration of the internal features of steam generator 200, Figure 8 The shell 202 is omitted.

[0054] The water basin 100 has a front portion 126 and a rear portion 127. The front portion 126 and the rear portion 127 are located on opposite sides of the drain portion 108. Thus, the front portion 126 extends from the drain portion 108 and includes the entire front wall 114. The rear portion 127 extends from the drain portion 108 and includes the entire rear wall 112. The entire steam generator 200 is positioned below the front portion 126 of the water basin 100. The steam outlet conduit 40 is positioned below the front portion 126 and the rear portion 127 of the water basin 100, extends through the opening of the drain portion 108, and is located on the side of the opening of the drain portion 108. The water basin steam outlet 130 is exclusively located in the rear portion 127 of the water basin 100.

[0055] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the fluid and electrical connections of the steam generator 200. Connections shown in solid lines represent fluid connections, while connections shown in dashed lines represent electrical connections via cables, buses, or other means. Dashed lines can carry electrical power, signals, or a combination of both.

[0056] The steam generator 200 includes a water tank 210, a first heater 220, a second heater 220, and a printed circuit board (or "PCB") 230. The water tank 210 further includes a low water level sensor 212 and a high water level sensor 214. An inlet 235 supplies water to a faucet 237 and the water tank 210 via a water supply line 239, the water supply line having an angle valve 238 fluidly connected to the inlet 237. The angle valve 238 is also fluidly connected to the faucet 237 via a tee or other component in the water supply line 239, the faucet 237 being located downstream of the angle valve 238 in the water supply line 239. The angle valve 238 allows manual operation by a user or maintenance technician to shut off the water supply to the faucet 237 and the steam generator 200.

[0057] The first solenoid valve 234 is also fluidly connected to the water supply line 239 downstream of the angle valve 238. The first solenoid valve 234 is electrically operable to open and close. When the first solenoid valve 234 is open, it allows water to flow into the water tank 210; when the first solenoid valve 234 is closed, it prevents water from flowing into the water tank 210. It can be seen that the water tank 210 is fluidly connected to the first solenoid valve 234 via the water supply line 239. The inlet 204 of the steam generator is preferably located along the water supply line 239 between the tee of the faucet 237 and the first solenoid valve 234. However, in other implementations, the first solenoid valve 234 may be located outside the housing 202 and upstream of the inlet 204. In this implementation, the first solenoid valve 234 is a normally closed valve, but in other implementations, the first solenoid valve 234 may be a normally open valve.

[0058] Furthermore, the drain line 240 fluidly connects the water tank 210 to the second solenoid valve 234, and then fluidly connects it to the outlet 236, which is fluidly connected to a drain pipe, sewer line, or the like. The second solenoid valve 234 can also be electrically operated to open and close, allowing water to flow from the water tank 210 when it is open and preventing water from flowing from the water tank 210 when it is closed. Preferably, the outlet 206 is located at the outlet 236, but if the second solenoid valve 234 is mounted externally to the housing 202, the outlet 206 can be positioned differently along the drain line 240. In this implementation, the second solenoid valve 234 is a normally closed valve, but in other implementations, the second solenoid valve 234 can be a normally open valve.

[0059] The third solenoid valve 232 is also fluidly connected to the water tank 210. The third solenoid valve 232 is a three-port solenoid valve, with its first port connected to the water tank 210, its second port connected to the atmosphere, and its third port connected to the drain pipe 240, ultimately leading to the outlet 236. The third solenoid valve 232 is both normally open and normally closed. In other words, when the third solenoid valve 232 is inactive, the first and second ports are fluidly connected, while the third port is not fluidly connected to either the first or second port. When the third solenoid valve 232 is active, the first and third ports are fluidly connected, while the second port is not fluidly connected to either the first or third port. In other implementations, the third solenoid valve 232 may be omitted, or the normally open and normally closed ports may be configured differently, or replaced with an air inlet valve, check valve, or other similar components.

[0060] The water tank 210 can be selectively filled or emptied, as determined by user input or other functions implemented on PCB 230. Control panel 60 is electrically connected to PCB 230 and allows user input to the transmissions to PCB 230. Furthermore, control panel 60 can receive and display output generated by PCB 230. Control panel 60 can provide a variety of functions, which will be discussed in detail below.

[0061] Water tank 210 is fluidly connected to heater 220. Heater 220 may have a water heating chamber to allow for more efficient heating of water for steam generation purposes. It is possible to heat only a portion of the water in water tank 210, rather than all of it, thereby reducing the time required to generate steam. Steam can be discharged via generator steam outlet 208. Optionally, PCB 230 may operate only one of the two heaters 220 at a time, generating steam only from one of the generator steam outlets 208.

[0062] The generator steam outlet 208 may be fluidly connected to the interior of the steam generator 200, ensuring that steam exits from the first steam outlet conduit 40 and the second steam outlet conduit 40, as well as the two basin steam outlets 130. In other implementations, the generator steam outlet 208 may not be fluidly connected, such that heat from a single heater 220 exits from a single generator steam outlet 208, and there is no mixing of steam between the two generator steam outlets 208. Optionally, water may flow through the generator steam outlet 208 to flush away any dirt or debris that may have entered the basin steam outlet 130, the steam outlet conduit 40, or the steam generator 200.

[0063] Each heater 220 may include a temperature sensor 222 and a thermostat 224. The temperature sensor 222 provides information to the PCB 230 regarding the current state of the water within the heater 220. The thermostat can be used to control the heat output of the heater 220 or the flow rate of water entering the heater 220, and may be controlled via the PCB 230 or operated mechanically or in other automated manner independent of the control of the PCB 230. In yet another configuration, the steam generator 200 may further include a distributor that delivers essential oils or other aromatic liquids to the water tank 210 so that they can vaporize together with the water in the water tank 210, thereby optimizing the steam experience provided by the washbasin.

[0064] Turning Figures 10 to 13 The steam generator 200 is described in more detail below. As mentioned above, the steam generator 200 includes a water tank 210, two heaters 220, a first solenoid valve 234, a second solenoid valve 234, and a third solenoid valve 232, as well as a PCB 230. Steam is supplied from the steam generator 200 through the generator steam outlet 208, while water is received via the inlet 204. Water can be discharged via the outlet 206. In other implementations, only a single heater 220 is used.

[0065] Figures 14 to 21 The basin 100, steam outlet conduit 40, and connecting element 20 are described in more detail. It can be seen that the basin 100 has a body 101 with a top edge 102, and a top plane PP extending along the top edge 102 as described above. The basin 100 further includes a drain portion 108 and a cover 109 covering the drain portion 108. Furthermore, a plurality of basin steam outlets 130 are symmetrically positioned about the center plane CC above the middle plane MM and below the top plane PP.

[0066] The basin 100 has a chamber 106 defined by an inner surface 110. The inner surface is defined by a rear wall 112, a front wall 114 opposite to the rear wall 112, and a left wall 116 and a right wall 118. The rear wall 112, front wall 114, left wall 116, and right wall 118 all intersect at a base plate 120. A drain section 108 extends through the base plate 120 to a drain outlet 111, which is fluidly connected to a sewer pipe or the like.

[0067] As described above, the rear wall 112 has a rear wall chamber 123, in which a hole 124 is provided, extending through the lower portion 125 of the rear wall 112. The hole 124 extends through the lower portion 125 of the rear wall 112, providing a passage for the inner wall portion 121. The rear wall 112 is formed such that the inner wall portion 121 and the outer wall portion 122 are connected at the top edge 102 of the basin 100. A steam outlet conduit 40 extends through the hole 124 to transfer steam to the basin steam outlet 130.

[0068] The inner wall portion 121 and the outer wall portion 122 are also connected by a lower portion 125, which is opposite to the top edge 102 of the basin 100. In other implementations, the rear wall 112 may be formed as a single wall with or without the lower portion 125. The basin steam outlet 130 is located within the rear wall chamber 123 and extends through a hole 132 in the basin 100. The hole 132 is formed to pass through the inner wall portion 121 but does not extend through the outer wall portion 122 or the lower portion 125. A steam outlet conduit 40 extends through a hole 124 into the rear wall chamber 123 and connects to the basin steam outlet 130 within the rear wall chamber 123.

[0069] The connecting element 20 engages features (e.g., threaded holes, through holes, etc.) in the basin 100 to allow the connecting element 20 to be attached to the basin 100. These features are formed as fins 128 extending from the base plate 120 below the front wall 114 and the rear wall 112. The fins 128 may be integrally formed with the body 101 of the basin 100, thereby making the body 101 of the basin 100 a single, integral, one-piece component. The connecting element 20 may be formed as a bracket 21 and a fastener 22, the bracket 21 having one or more slots, one or more holes, or the like, to receive the fastener 22 and allow the connecting element 20 to be adjustably mounted to the basin 100 and the steam generator 200.

[0070] Turning Figures 22 to 28 The illustration shows a steam generator 200. As previously described, the steam generator 200 has a housing 202, which is generally rectangular in shape. The housing 202 may be made of sheet metal or other sheet materials (such as plastic or composite materials). In yet another implementation, the housing 202 may be molded or otherwise formed to reduce manufacturing costs and improve durability. As described above, the steam generator 200 has an inlet 204, an outlet 206, and a steam outlet 208.

[0071] Turning Figure 29The diagram shows a control panel 60. The control panel 60 has a user interface portion 61, an upper housing portion 62, a mounting portion 63, and a base surface 64. The control panel 60 is configured for mounting, spaced apart from and isolated from the water basin 100 and the steam generator 200. The user interface portion 61 may have one or more user input features, such as buttons, sliders, switches, etc. The user interface portion 61 may also include display features, such as lights, alphanumeric displays, or other features that can convey information to the user.

[0072] The upper housing portion 62 covers the electronic components required for the user interface portion 61, providing a clean and aesthetically pleasing appearance and protecting the electronic components from moisture. The upper housing portion 62 terminates at a base surface 64, which is configured to engage a horizontal surface (such as a washbasin countertop or other supporting structure). The mounting portion 63 may be a threaded tube or conduit, which, in combination with nuts or other fastening devices, can be used to securely clamp the control panel 60 to the supporting structure. Furthermore, the mounting portion 63 has a hollow channel that allows wires to pass through, providing power transmission and communication capabilities to the control panel 60.

[0073] During use of the washbasin 10, the user can operate the control panel 60 in various ways. For example, when the user connects the power to the washbasin 10, the washbasin 10 can perform self-testing and self-checking functions by operating the components within the washbasin 10, measuring sensor outputs, or measuring the electrical characteristics of the components when they are operated. It is further envisioned that the washbasin 10 could have a self-cleaning function. The self-cleaning function can be operated through the following steps: allowing excess water to flow into the water tank 210 of the steam generator, and then continuing to allow the water to flow until it overflows from the water tank 210 and flows through the heater 220. Then, the water flows out from the steam outlet 208, through the steam outlet conduit 40, and then out from the basin steam outlet 130. This function can be used to clean the internal components of the washbasin 10, ensuring that there is no dirt, dust, or other debris or contaminants in the system.

[0074] In other implementations, the washbasin 10 may allow for either a low or high mode. In low mode, the steam generator 200 operates such that only one heater 220 actively provides heat to generate steam. As described above, steam outlets 208 can be connected so that steam flows from both steam outlets 208. In other implementations, the steam outlets 208 can be isolated from each other, so that steam flows from only a single steam outlet 208. In some implementations, one of the two heaters 220 operates in low mode. For example, the first heater 220 may operate for a period of time or for several cycles in low mode, and then the second heater 220 may operate for a period of time or for several cycles in low mode. This balances the use of the heaters and ensures that one heater does not fail prematurely. In high mode, both heaters 220 can operate simultaneously. Therefore, the washbasin 10 provides maximum steam output for rapid steam generation and quickly fills the room with steam.

[0075] In another operating mode, the automatic cleaning function allows the washbasin 10 to automatically clean itself. In one implementation, a button on the control panel 60 can be pressed and held for three seconds to activate the automatic cleaning function. In another implementation, automatic cleaning is activated upon initial power-on, at predetermined time intervals, or upon receiving other input from the user. After the automatic cleaning function is activated, the washbasin allows water to flow into the water tank 210 and allows water to flow into the water tank 210 for 30 seconds. No water is discharged via the drain pipe 240, so water flows through the heater 220 and out of the steam outlet 208. The water then rinses through the basin steam outlet 130, ensuring that the steam generator 200, the steam outlet conduit 40, and the basin steam outlet 130 are cleaned. During the 30-second rinsing time, water is transferred through the basin steam outlet 130, and the water volume is sufficient to ensure thorough cleaning.

[0076] As can be seen, the control panel 60 can have a power button, a sensitive mode button, a normal mode button, and an automatic cleaning button. The power button is used to supply power to the washbasin 10. The sensitive mode button activates the aforementioned low mode. The normal mode button activates the aforementioned high mode. The automatic cleaning button is used to activate the aforementioned automatic cleaning function. Alternatively, one or more buttons can have multiple functions. For example, the power button can be used to operate the automatic cleaning function. Other configurations can also be implemented as needed.

[0077] Exemplary Set of Claims

[0078] Exemplary claim 1: A washbasin comprising: a basin including a drain and a basin steam outlet; a steam generator including: a water inlet; a water tank configured to store water received at the water inlet; a heater configured to heat the water to generate steam; and a generator steam outlet configured to output the steam; a connecting element connecting the steam generator to the basin; and a steam outlet conduit connecting the generator steam outlet fluidly to the basin steam outlet; wherein the basin steam outlet is located on the rear wall of the basin.

[0079] Exemplary claim 2: The washbasin according to claim 1, wherein the steam generator is suspended on the basin.

[0080] Exemplary claim 3: The washbasin according to claim 2, wherein the washbasin further includes a front portion opposite to the rear wall of the washbasin, and the steam generator is suspended below the front portion of the washbasin.

[0081] Exemplary claim 4: The washbasin according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a second basin steam outlet, a second steam outlet conduit and a second generator steam outlet, the second steam outlet conduit fluidly connecting the second generator steam outlet to the second basin steam outlet.

[0082] Exemplary claim 5: The washbasin according to claim 4, further comprising a central plane, the basin being symmetrical about the central plane, and wherein the steam outlet conduit and the second steam outlet conduit are symmetrical about the central plane.

[0083] Exemplary claim 6: The washbasin according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the generator steam outlet and the second generator steam outlet are fluidly connected within the steam generator.

[0084] Exemplary claim 7: A washbasin according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the washbasin includes a hole extending through the rear wall of the washbasin, the hole receiving a steam outlet of the washbasin.

[0085] Exemplary claim 8: A washbasin according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the steam outlet of the basin is located above a central plane that extends parallel to the top edge of the basin and is located midway between the top edge of the basin and the drain portion.

[0086] Exemplary claim 9: A washbasin according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the steam generator includes a second heater, the steam generator being configured to operate in a low mode when the heater is running, and in a high mode when both the heater and the second heater are running.

[0087] Exemplary claim 10: A washbasin according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the washbasin includes a control panel spaced apart from and isolated from the basin and the steam generator.

[0088] Exemplary claim 11: A method for generating steam, the method comprising: providing a washbasin, the washbasin including a basin and a steam generator connected to the basin; generating steam in the steam generator; and conveying steam from a generator steam outlet of the steam generator to a basin steam outlet via a steam outlet conduit, the basin steam outlet being positioned on the rear wall of the basin.

[0089] Exemplary claim 12: The method of claim 11, wherein the conveying step further comprises conveying steam from the second generator steam outlet of the steam generator to the second water basin steam outlet via a second steam outlet conduit.

[0090] Exemplary claim 13: The method of claim 12, wherein the water basin further includes a central plane, the water basin being symmetrical about the central plane, and wherein the steam outlet conduit and the second steam outlet conduit are symmetrical about the central plane.

[0091] Exemplary claim 14: The method according to claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the generator steam outlet and the second generator steam outlet are fluidly connected within the steam generator.

[0092] Exemplary claim 15: The method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the steam generator is configured to operate in a low mode and a high mode, the low mode generating a first volumetric flow rate of steam and the high mode generating a second volumetric flow rate of steam, the first volumetric flow rate being less than the second volumetric flow rate.

[0093] Exemplary claim 16: A washbasin comprising: a basin including a drain portion, a basin steam outlet, a front portion, and a rear portion, wherein the front portion and the rear portion are located on opposite sides of the drain portion; a steam generator including: a water inlet; a water tank configured to store water received at the water inlet; a heater configured to heat the water to generate steam; and a generator steam outlet configured to output the steam; a connecting element connecting the steam generator to the basin; and a steam outlet conduit fluidly connecting the generator steam outlet to the basin steam outlet; wherein the steam generator is suspended below the front portion of the basin by the connecting element, and the steam outlet conduit extends from below the front portion of the basin to the basin steam outlet.

[0094] Exemplary claim 17: The washbasin according to claim 16, wherein the connecting element comprises a first bracket, a second bracket, and a plurality of fasteners.

[0095] Exemplary claim 18: The washbasin according to claim 17, wherein the connecting element is directly connected to the basin and the steam generator.

[0096] Exemplary claim 19: A washbasin according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the steam outlet of the basin is located above a central plane that extends parallel to the top edge of the basin and is located midway between the top edge of the basin and the drain portion.

[0097] Exemplary claim 20: A washbasin according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein the washbasin further includes a rear wall, and the steam outlet of the washbasin is located on the rear wall of the washbasin.

[0098] While the foregoing description and accompanying drawings represent examples of the invention disclosed herein, it is understood that various additions, modifications, and substitutions can be made therein without departing from the spirit, scope, and equivalents of the appended claims. In particular, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that the invention can be embodied in other forms, structures, arrangements, proportions, dimensions, and other elements, materials, and components without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. Furthermore, various applicable modifications can be made to the methods / processes described herein without departing from the spirit of the invention. Those skilled in the art will further recognize that the invention can be used with numerous modifications to its structure, arrangement, proportions, dimensions, materials, components, and other aspects to suit specific environments and operational requirements without departing from the principles of the invention. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed herein should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects, and the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents, and not limited to the foregoing description or examples. Rather, the appended claims should be interpreted broadly to include other variations of the invention that can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and equivalents of the invention.

Claims

1. A washbasin, comprising: A water basin, the water basin including a drain section and a water basin steam outlet; A steam generator, the steam generator comprising: Inlet; A water tank configured to store water received at the inlet; A heater, configured to heat the water to generate steam; and A generator steam outlet, the generator steam outlet being configured to output the steam; A connecting element, which engages a fin extending from the bottom plate of the water basin to connect the steam generator to the underside of the water basin; and A steam outlet conduit that connects the generator steam outlet fluidly to the water basin steam outlet; The steam outlet of the water basin is located on the rear wall of the water basin.

2. The washbasin according to claim 1, wherein the steam generator is suspended on the washbasin.

3. The washbasin according to claim 2, wherein the washbasin further includes a front portion opposite to the rear wall of the washbasin, and the steam generator is suspended below the front portion of the washbasin.

4. The washbasin according to claim 1, further comprising a second basin steam outlet, a second steam outlet conduit, and a second generator steam outlet, wherein the second steam outlet conduit fluidly connects the second generator steam outlet to the second basin steam outlet.

5. The washbasin according to claim 4, further comprising a central plane, the basin being symmetrical about the central plane, and wherein the steam outlet conduit and the second steam outlet conduit are symmetrical about the central plane.

6. The washbasin according to claim 4, wherein the steam outlet of the generator and the steam outlet of the second generator are fluidly connected within the steam generator.

7. The washbasin of claim 1, wherein the basin includes a hole extending through the rear wall of the basin, the hole receiving a steam outlet of the basin.

8. The washbasin according to claim 1, wherein the steam outlet of the basin is located above the central plane, the central plane extending parallel to the top edge of the basin and located midway between the top edge of the basin and the drain portion.

9. The washbasin of claim 1, wherein the steam generator includes a second heater, the steam generator being configured to operate in a low mode when the heater is running, and in a high mode when both the heater and the second heater are running.

10. The washbasin according to claim 1, wherein the washbasin includes a control panel, the control panel being spaced apart from and isolated from the basin and the steam generator.

11. A method for generating steam, the method comprising: A washbasin is provided, the washbasin including a basin and a steam generator connected to the basin, wherein the basin includes fins extending from a base plate, and the steam generator is connected to the underside of the basin via a connecting element engaging the fins. Steam is generated within the steam generator; Steam is delivered from the generator steam outlet of the steam generator to the water basin steam outlet via a steam outlet conduit, the water basin steam outlet being located on the rear wall of the water basin.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the conveying step further comprises conveying steam from the second generator steam outlet of the steam generator to the second water basin steam outlet via a second steam outlet conduit.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the water basin further includes a central plane, the water basin being symmetrical about the central plane, and wherein the steam outlet conduit and the second steam outlet conduit are symmetrical about the central plane.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein the generator steam outlet and the second generator steam outlet are fluidly connected within the steam generator.

15. The method of claim 11, wherein the steam generator is configured to operate in a low mode and a high mode, the low mode generating a first volumetric flow rate of steam and the high mode generating a second volumetric flow rate of steam, the first volumetric flow rate being less than the second volumetric flow rate.

16. A washbasin, comprising: A water basin, the water basin including a drain section, a water basin steam outlet, a front section and a rear section, wherein the front section and the rear section are located on opposite sides of the drain section; A steam generator, the steam generator comprising: Inlet; A water tank configured to store water received at the inlet; A heater, configured to heat the water to generate steam; and A generator steam outlet, the generator steam outlet being configured to output the steam; A connecting element, which engages a fin extending from the bottom plate of the water basin to connect the steam generator to the underside of the water basin; and A steam outlet conduit that connects the generator steam outlet fluidly to the water basin steam outlet located on the rear wall of the water basin; The steam generator is suspended below the front of the water basin by the connecting element, and the steam outlet conduit extends from below the front of the water basin to the steam outlet of the water basin.

17. The washbasin according to claim 16, wherein the connecting element comprises a first bracket, a second bracket, and a plurality of fasteners.

18. The washbasin according to claim 17, wherein the connecting element is directly connected to the basin and the steam generator.

19. The washbasin of claim 16, wherein the steam outlet of the basin is located above a central plane that extends parallel to the top edge of the basin and is located midway between the top edge of the basin and the drain portion.

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