Water treatment system and method of use

Abstract

A faucet system (100) is provided. A faucet system (100) includes a fixture (102), a hose extending through the fixture (102), and a reinforcement module (222) removably coupled to the hose and extendable and retractable from the fixture (102). The fixture (102) includes a base (110) configured for coupling to the mounting surface (101), and includes a neck (112) coupled to the base (110). The hose extends through the neck (112) and the base (110), and the hose includes a handle portion (220) coupled to an end of the hose. An enhancement module (222) is removably coupled to the handle portion (220) and configured to receive the water flow from the hose and selectively treat the water flow.

Description

Background Art

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to water fixtures. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to water treatment systems for treating and providing a flow of water to a fixture. Summary of the invention

[0002] At least one embodiment relates to a faucet system. The faucet system includes a water treatment system, a fixture fluidly coupled to the water treatment system, and a user interface controller communicatively coupled to a system controller of the water treatment system. The water treatment system includes a system controller and a treatment device configured to selectively treat a flow, the treatment device communicating with the system controller. The fixture is configured to receive a flow of water from the water treatment system. The user interface controller is configured to send a first input to the system controller, the first input including instructions for operating the treatment device, and the user interface controller is further configured to send a second input to the system controller, the second input causing initiation of a flow of water through the fixture and causing operation of the treatment device according to the instructions of the first input.

[0003] Another embodiment relates to a faucet system. The faucet system includes a fixture, a treatment device, a user interface controller, and a system controller in communication with the fixture, the treatment device, and the user interface controller. The fixture includes a handle control device in communication with the system controller, and the fixture includes a spray head having an outlet and configured to discharge a water flow. The treatment device is in fluid communication with the spray head and is configured to selectively output the treatment to the water flow. The system controller is configured to receive a first signal from the user interface controller; in response to receiving the first signal, determine whether to activate the treatment device in response to receiving a second signal; receive a second signal from the handle control device; and in response to receiving the second signal, operate the faucet system to perform at least one of the following: discharge an untreated water flow from the fixture; activate the treatment device and discharge a treated water flow from the fixture; or discharge an untreated water flow from the fixture within a first time interval, activate the treatment device at the end of the first time interval, and discharge a treated water flow from the fixture within a second time interval.

[0004] Another embodiment relates to a faucet system. The faucet system includes a fixture, a hose extending through the fixture, and an enhancement module removably coupled to the hose and extendable and retractable from the fixture. The fixture includes a base configured to be coupled to a mounting surface and includes a neck coupled to the base. The hose extends through the neck and the base, and the hose includes a handle portion coupled to an end of the hose. The enhancement module is removably coupled to the handle portion, and the enhancement module is configured to receive a flow of water from the hose and selectively treat the flow of water.

[0005] Another embodiment relates to a water treatment system. The water treatment system includes a treatment device, a valve assembly, and a system controller. The treatment device is configured to selectively treat a water flow. The valve assembly is configured to stop and start the water flow through the water treatment device. The controller is communicatively coupled to both the treatment device and the valve assembly. The system controller includes a processor and a memory, the memory being configured to store instructions executed by the processor and causing the controller to: receive a first input from a user interface device; in response to receiving the first input, configure an operating state of the treatment device, the operating state being one of a dormant state and a standby state; receive a start flow input from the user interface device; and in response to the start flow input: operate the valve assembly to start the water flow; and operate the treatment device according to the operating state; wherein, in the dormant state, the treatment device is powered off in response to the second input; and in the standby state, the treatment device is activated in response to the start flow input and provides input to the water flow.

[0006] This summary is illustrative only and is not to be construed as limiting. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The present disclosure may be more fully understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements and wherein:

[0008] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a faucet system according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0009] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a fixing part of a faucet system;

[0010] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A three-dimensional view of the fixing member in the embodiment of the present invention when the fixing member is in an extended position;

[0011] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of an enhancement module for a faucet system;

[0012] Figure 5 According to an exemplary embodiment Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a reinforcement module;

[0013] Figure 6 According to another exemplary embodiment Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a reinforcement module;

[0014] Figure 7 According to another exemplary embodiment Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a reinforcement module;

[0015] Figure 8is a cross-sectional view of a reinforcement module according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0016] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a reinforcement module according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0017] Fig.10 yes Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of a reinforcement module;

[0018] Fig.11 is a cross-sectional view of a reinforcement module according to another exemplary embodiment;

[0019] Fig.12 is an exemplary embodiment of an enhancement module according to another exemplary embodiment;

[0020] Fig.13 is a cross-sectional view of a faucet system according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0021] Fig.14 is a cross-sectional view of a faucet system according to another exemplary embodiment;

[0022] Fig.15 is a top view of a user control interface of a faucet system according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0023] Fig.16 yes Fig.15 A top view of the user control interface in a different configuration;

[0024] Fig.17 is a side view of a water treatment system of a faucet system according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0025] Fig.18 is a perspective view of a user interface control coupled to a fixture according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0026] Fig.19 is a perspective view of a user interface control coupled to a fixture according to another exemplary embodiment;

[0027] Fig. 20 is a perspective view of a user interface control coupled to a fixture according to another exemplary embodiment;

[0028] Fig.21 yes Figure 1 Circuit diagram of the controller of the faucet system;

[0029] Fig. 22 According to an exemplary embodiment, a method for controlling Figure 1 A block diagram of a method of a tap system;

[0030] Fig.23is a perspective view of a faucet system according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0031] Fig.24 yes Fig.23 A perspective view of a steam wand for a faucet system;

[0032] Fig.25 yes Fig.24 Detailed stereogram of the steam wand;

[0033] Fig.26 yes Fig.23 Detailed view of the fittings of the faucet system;

[0034] Fig. 27 is connected to Fig.26 Accessories Fig.23 A detailed view of the tap system enhancement module;

[0035] Fig.28 yes Fig.23 A side view of the faucet system in an expanded configuration;

[0036] Fig.29 is a detailed stereogram of a reinforcement module used as a scrubbing module;

[0037] Fig.30 is a detailed perspective view of a scrubbing module having replaceable circular brushes;

[0038] Fig.31 is a detailed perspective view of a scrubbing module with a bottle brush; and

[0039] Fig.32 is a flow chart of a water treatment system for a faucet system according to an exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] Before turning to the drawings that illustrate certain exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details or methods set forth in the description or illustrated in the drawings. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for descriptive purposes only and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0041] With general reference to the accompanying drawings, a water treatment system is provided. The water treatment system is configured to receive a water flow, selectively treat the water flow, and provide the water flow to a fixture. The water treatment system includes a treatment device operably connected to a controller. The treatment device is configured to selectively treat the water flow flowing through the water treatment system. The treatment device treats the water flow to produce one of ozone water, steam, hot water, filtered water, microbubbles, nanobubbles, electrolyzed water, water with a concentrate (e.g., soap, cleaning concentrate, etc.) and pH-adjusted water (e.g., water with a pH higher than 7, water with a pH higher than 10, water with a pH lower than 7, water with a pH lower than 3, etc.). In some embodiments, the water flow is treated by two different treatment devices so that the water flow receives two different treatments. The water treatment system is user programmable so that a treatment setting is established before starting the water flow through the fixture. User interaction with the user interface controller sends instructions to the controller for operating the treatment device. For example, if the user wants to discharge ozone water with a concentration of two parts per million (e.g., 2PPM), the user engages with the user interface controller to provide the system controller with instructions on how to operate the treatment device when water flows through the fixture. These instructions include states ("activated" or "inactivated"), settings (e.g., concentration, PPM, etc.), and delays (e.g., time delays before the fluid is treated). Through the user interface control, the user can set the treatment device (in this case, the ozone generator) to "turn on" at 2PPM. When it is detected that the treatment device is an ozone generator, the controller can automatically apply a preset time delay. In some embodiments, the time delay can be programmed by the user interface controller, for example, when the treatment device provides soap to the water flow. After the user has sent the treatment device operation instruction to the controller, the user interacts with the start controller to simultaneously start the water flow through the fixture and start the execution of the treatment device operation instruction. In some embodiments, the start controller is part of the user interface controller. In some embodiments, the start controller is a handle or button on the fixture. In some embodiments, the start controller is a control puck that is physically separate from but operably coupled to the water treatment system and fixture.

[0042] Now back to Figure 1, a faucet system 100 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The faucet system 100 includes a fixture (e.g., a faucet) 102 and a water treatment system 104 that are fluidly coupled to each other. The water treatment system 104 is configured to receive a water flow (e.g., a water flow from a municipal supply line), selectively treat the water flow, and provide the water flow to the fixture 102. In some embodiments, the water treatment system 104 treats the water flow before providing the treated water flow to the fixture 102. In some embodiments, the water treatment system 104 provides the water flow to the fixture 102 before treating the water flow. For example, the water treatment system 104 may provide the water flow to a mixing valve in the fixture 102 before treating the water flow. The fixture 102 is configured for coupling to a mounting surface 101 (e.g., a countertop, a sink, a wall, a floor, or any other surface where it is desired to have the fixture 102). As Figure 1 As shown, water treatment system 104 is positioned on the side of surface 101 opposite fixture 102. For example, in an embodiment where fixture 102 is a sink faucet in fluid communication with a sink and surface 101 is a countertop, water treatment system 104 can be positioned below surface 101 and within a cabinet space. In some embodiments, such as when fixture 102 is a shower head and surface 101 is a wall, water treatment system 104 can be positioned behind the wall and out of sight of a user of fixture 102. In some embodiments, such as when fixture 102 is a faucet in fluid communication with a bathtub and surface 101 is a floor, water treatment system 104 can be positioned below the floor and out of sight of a user. In some embodiments, water treatment system 104 is easily accessible and visible, so that maintenance and repair of water treatment system 104 is possible without access to a service panel or crawl space. In some embodiments, water treatment system 104 is intentionally visible to a user of fixture 102 to achieve a desired aesthetic effect.

[0043] like Figure 1As shown, the fixture 102 is a faucet. The fixture 102 includes a base 110, a neck 112, and a first spray head 114. The base 110 is coupled to the surface 101, the neck 112 is rotatably coupled to the base 110, and the first spray head 114 is selectively and / or removably coupled to the neck 112. In some embodiments, the surface 101, the base 110, the neck 112, and the first spray head 114 are rotatably coupled to each other, selectively coupled, removably coupled, or coupled to each other in any combination thereof. The base 110, the neck 112, and the first spray head 114 are in fluid communication with each other, so that the water flow provided to the base 110 by the water treatment system 104 is discharged by the first spray head 114. Specifically, the first fluid conduit 115 fluidly couples the first spray head 114 to the water treatment system 104. The first fluid conduit 115 can be a retractable spray hose retracted into the neck 112 and the base 110 of the fixture 102. The fixture 102 is configured to receive a treated water stream (e.g., steam, hot water, filtered water, microbubbles, nanobubbles, ozone water, electrolyzed water, hydrogen water, and pH water (e.g., water with a pH greater than 7, water with a pH greater than 10, water with a pH less than 7, water with a pH less than 3, etc.) from the water treatment system 104. In some embodiments, the fixture 102 provides an untreated water stream. Unless otherwise specifically stated, the term "water stream" as used herein refers to both treated water streams and untreated water streams.

[0044] The first fluid conduit 115 includes a first electrical conduit 117 that extends along a length of the first fluid conduit 115 and is configured to provide power and data to the first showerhead 114 .

[0045] The fixture 102 further includes a handle control 116 operably coupled to a mixing valve 118. In some embodiments, as Figure 1As shown, the handle control 116 and the mixing valve 118 are coupled to the base 110. Operation of the handle control 116 operates the mixing valve 118 to start, stop, and further control the flow of water through the fixture 102 and to the first spray head 114 via the first fluid conduit 115. In some embodiments, the mixing valve 118 and the handle control 116 are physically separated, and the handle control 116 is operably coupled to the mixing valve 118 so that interaction with the handle control 116 operates the mixing valve 118. In some embodiments, the faucet system 100 includes a digital mixing valve that is wirelessly controlled, so that the handle control 116 can be physically separated from the mixing valve 118, the fixture 102, or both, while still controlling the operation of the mixing valve 118. In some embodiments, the base 110 includes a user interface controller 200 that is configured to send instructions to the system controller 230 for operating the water treatment system 104. In some embodiments, user interface control 200 is a button or sensor located on neck 112 and is configured to operate a portion of water treatment system 104 in response to receiving engagement from a user. In some embodiments, handle control 116 is user interface control 200. In some embodiments, instead of handle control 116 ( Figures 18 to 20 ) or except for the handle control 116 ( Figures 18 to 20 ), the base 110 includes a dial, a toggle, or a similar control feature. In some embodiments, the handle control 116 includes a sensor (shown as a handle sensor 120) that communicates with the system controller 230 and is configured to detect the position of the handle control 116. For example, when the handle control 116 is in the closed position, the handle sensor 120 can send a signal to the system controller 230 to cut off power to a portion of the faucet system 100 (e.g., a water treatment system, a water treatment device, etc.). When the handle control 116 is in an open position (e.g., a position other than the closed position), the handle sensor 120 can send a signal to the system controller 230 to activate a portion of the faucet system 100. For example, in embodiments where the water treatment system 104 is configured to generate bubbles (e.g., microbubbles, nanobubbles, etc.) in the water flow, the handle sensor 120 detects that the handle control 116 is not in the closed position and can automatically activate a bubble generator that generates bubbles in the water flow.

[0046] In some embodiments, Figure 1As shown, the fixture 102 includes a second spray head 124, which is configured to receive a flow of water from a second fluid conduit 126. The second fluid conduit 126 may include a second electrical conduit 127, which is configured to provide power, data, or both to the second spray head 124. The second spray head 124 can be removably connected to the base 110, and can be extended and retracted into the base 110. In some embodiments, the mixing valve 118 controls the flow of water to both the first spray head 114 and the second spray head 124. In some embodiments, the first fluid conduit 115 and the second fluid conduit 126 are fluidly isolated so that the mixing valve 118 is a first mixing valve 118, and the operation of the handle control 116 does not control the flow of water to the second spray head 124. In some embodiments, the second spray head 124 is a steam module 128 with a steam device, which is configured to receive a flow of water and discharge a steam flow from the second spray head 124. Second spray head 124 may further include a brush 122 positioned at an end of second spray head 124 proximate an outlet of second spray head 124. In some embodiments, second spray head 124 is removably coupled to second fluid conduit 126 so that second spray head 124 may be replaced by a different module (eg, an electrolysis module).

[0047] The second spray head 124 can be operated between a docked position and an undocked position. In some embodiments, the base 110 includes a docking sensor 136, which is configured to detect whether the second spray head 124 is in the docking position. The docking sensor 136 is configured to send a signal to the system controller 230 indicating the docking position of the second spray head 124 relative to the base 110. For example, if the second spray head 124 is in the docking position, the docking sensor 136 will send a signal to the system controller 230, and the system controller 230 can prevent operation in the steam mode. This can be a safety feature to prevent hot water splashing and accidental opening when the second spray head 124 is not in use. In some embodiments, the system controller 230 "pulls" a signal from the docking sensor 136 in response to a condition or a change in a condition. For example, if the user operates the user interface controller 200 to turn on the steam function, the system controller 230 will request a signal from the docking sensor 136 indicating the position of the second spray head 124. If the docking sensor 136 sends a signal to the system controller 230 that the second spray head 124 is not docked, the system controller 230 will activate the steam function.

[0048] The faucet system 100 may further include a reservoir module 140. The reservoir module 140 is configured to store fluid and provide the fluid to the first spray head 114, the second spray head 124, or both. The reservoir module 140 includes a plurality of modules, including a first reservoir 142 and a second reservoir 144. The first reservoir 142 may be fluidly isolated from the second reservoir 144 to prevent mixing between the first reservoir 142 and the second reservoir 144. The first reservoir 142 may include a volume of treated water (e.g., soapy water, electrolyzed water, ozone water, soapy water, steam, water with nanobubbles, water with microbubbles, filtered water, water with cleaning concentrate, and the like). In some embodiments, the first reservoir 142 includes a cleaning concentrate. Similarly, the second reservoir 144 may include soapy water, electrolyzed water, ozone water, soapy water, steam, water with nanobubbles, water with microbubbles, filtered water, cleaning concentrate, and the like. In some embodiments, the first reservoir 142 and the second reservoir 144 are configured to mix downstream from the first reservoir 142 and the second reservoir 144. For example, the reservoir module 140 may include a reservoir valve assembly 148 that is in fluid communication with both the first reservoir 142 and the second reservoir 144. In response to a request from the user interface controller 200 to receive a flow of water from the first reservoir 142, the reservoir valve assembly 148 may receive the flow of water from the first reservoir 142 and provide the flow of water to the fixture 102. In some embodiments, the reservoir valve assembly 148 may receive a command to provide a flow of water having both nanobubbles and cleaning concentrate. Accordingly, the reservoir valve assembly 148 may receive a flow of water from both the first reservoir 142 and the second reservoir 144, combine the two flows of water, and provide the combined flow of water to the fixture 102. The reservoir module 140 may be positioned below the surface 101 to prevent the reservoir module 140 from occupying space on or above the surface 101.

[0049] like Figure 1As shown, the second spray head 124 and the second fluid conduit 126 are shown as being fluidly isolated from the reservoir module 140. For example, in an embodiment where the second spray head 124 is a dedicated steam module (e.g., steam module 128), it may be desirable for the second fluid conduit 126 to be fluidly coupled directly to a hot water supply line upstream of the reservoir module 140. In some embodiments, the second fluid conduit 126 is fluidly coupled to the reservoir module 140 and the reservoir valve assembly 148 so that the second spray head 124 can receive a flow of water from the reservoir module 140 via the reservoir valve assembly 148. In some embodiments, the second fluid conduit 126 is an insulating conduit configured to prevent significant heat loss from the flow of hot water (water exceeding 120°F or 49°C) flowing through the second fluid conduit 126. The second fluid conduit 126 is extendable and flexible so that the second spray head 124 can be removed from the base 110 and manipulated to spray at multiple angles. When the second spray head 124 is in a docked position, the second spray head 124 can extend away from the base at an angle α. The angle α is between 30° and 60°.

[0050] The fixture 102 is operable by the user to provide one or more water flows upon interaction with the user interface controller 200. The user interface controller 200 may be a physical actuator (e.g., a button, a switch, a sensor, an interactive screen, a wireless remote control, etc.) or a virtual actuator (e.g., a voice command, etc.). In some embodiments, the user interface controller 200 is a wireless control disk, a touch screen, a remote control, and the like. The user interface controller 200 communicates to a system controller 230 ( Fig.21 ) sends a signal. The system controller 230 is configured to detect a condition (e.g., temperature, flow rate, etc.) and complete an action in response to detecting the condition. For example, in order for a user to operate the user interface controller 200 to use the steam function, the system controller 230 may detect whether the second nozzle 124 is docked with the base 110 (e.g., removably connected to the base 110). If the second nozzle 124 is not docked, the system controller 230 may prevent the operation of the steam function. In some embodiments, in response to the system controller 230 detecting that the second nozzle 124 is in a docking position, the system controller 230 may disable the user interface controller 200 so that the interaction with the user interface controller 200 does not activate (or activate by sending a signal to the system controller 230) the steam flow from the steam module 128. It should be understood that the foregoing examples of the system controller 230 are not restrictive, and the system controller 230 may be configured to detect multiple conditions before completing an action. In some embodiments, preventing an action from occurring is equivalent to completing an action (e.g., actively disabling the user interface controller 200, preventing the temperature of the water leaving the first nozzle 114 from changing, etc.).

[0051] Reference now Figures 2 to 3 , according to another exemplary embodiment, a fixture 202 is shown. The fixture 202 is similar to the fixture 102. Therefore, similar numbering is used to represent similar components between the fixture 102 and the fixture 202. The difference between the fixture 102 and the fixture 202 is that the fixture 202 has an overall different aesthetic when compared to the fixture 102, including a base 210 and a neck 212 having a different structure than the base 110 and the neck 112.

[0052] The neck 212 includes two parts, shown as a first neck 205 coupled to the base 210 and a second neck 207 coupled to the first spray head 214. The first neck 205 and the second neck 207 meet (e.g., are coupled to each other) at a bend 209 having an obtuse angle β (e.g., an angle greater than 90 degrees). In some embodiments, the first neck 205 and the second neck 207 meet at a right angle (e.g., an angle of approximately 90°). The neck 212 can be cylindrical and have a circular cross-sectional shape. In some embodiments, the angle β is an acute angle (e.g., less than 90 degrees).

[0053] The first spray head 214 (eg, spray head) includes two parts, shown as a handle portion 220 and an enhancement module 222. The handle portion 220 is removably coupled to the second neck portion 207 ( Figure 3 ), and receives a fluid flow from a water treatment system (e.g., water treatment system 104) via first fluid conduit 115. In some embodiments, handle portion 220 is substantially cylindrical and has the same cross-sectional shape as neck 212. Handle portion 220 is configured to be grasped by a user and may include gripping features (e.g., bumps, knurling, overmolded features, and the like).

[0054] The reinforcement module 222 is removably coupled to the handle portion 220 (e.g., by a threaded coupling, a bayonet-type fastening, a latch, a magnet, an interference fit, and the like). In some embodiments, the reinforcement module 222 is integrally formed with the handle portion 220. As used herein, two or more elements are "integrally formed" with each other when they are formed as part of a single manufacturing process and joined together to form a single part or unitary construction that cannot be disassembled without at least partially destroying the integral component.

[0055] The handle portion 220 includes a handle accessory 226 configured to couple with a module accessory 228 of the enhancement module 222. Accessories 227 (e.g., handle accessory 226 and module accessory 228) are configured to selectively and fluidly couple the handle portion 220 to the enhancement module 222. In some embodiments, the accessory 227 is further configured to communicatively couple the handle portion 220 to the enhancement module 222 together so that the enhancement module 222 communicates with the system controller 230. For example, the accessory 227 may include an electrical connection configured to transmit data and power between the enhancement module 222 and the system controller 230 of the faucet system 100. The enhancement module 222 includes a module interface 258 (e.g., a button, switch, control switch, sensor, toggle, etc.) located in a position for interaction by a user. User engagement of the module interface 258 may send a signal to the system controller 230 to change an operating condition of the enhancement module 222. In some embodiments, the module interface 258 includes a plurality of interfaces (e.g., buttons and switches) that can be operated by a user to change, for example, the output spray pattern of the enhancement module 222, the condition of the faucet system 100, and the like. In some embodiments, the user interface controller 200 is operated by a user to change the mode of the enhancement module 222.

[0056] In some embodiments, the enhancement module 222 includes a closed-loop controller system that is communicatively isolated from the rest of the faucet system 100. For example, the accessory 227 can be configured to provide power, but not data (e.g., signals), such that the system controller 230 does not communicate with the enhancement module 222. Thus, the enhancement module 222 operates independently of the faucet system 100. This may be desirable when compatibility between the enhancement module 222 and the system controller 230 is challenging (e.g., when using a third-party enhancement module that is not manufactured by the manufacturer of the fixture 202).

[0057] In some embodiments, the enhancement module 222 is a bubble module configured to form bubbles in the water flow. In embodiments where the bubble module includes a closed loop controller and is communicatively isolated from the rest of the faucet system 100, the bubble module is controlled without affecting the operation of the faucet system 100. Another advantage of providing a closed loop control system in the enhancement module 222 is that the faucet system 100 and the system controller 230 may not require firmware and software updates in order to be compatible with newer modules because the accessory 227 only transmits power and not data. In some embodiments, the enhancement module 222 includes a computer connection (universal serial bus, serial, etc.) that is configured to communicatively connect to a computer or other computing device so that software-related tasks (e.g., updating the spray pattern of the enhancement module 222) can be completed without having to operate a separate controller (e.g., system controller 230) associated with the rest of the faucet system 100. In some embodiments, the enhancement module 222 is configured to wirelessly communicate with a computing device (e.g., a cell phone) so that software and firmware updates are wirelessly enabled.

[0058] Enhancement module 222 can complete various tasks and has multiple operation modes. In some embodiments, enhancement module 222 is configured to provide a first treatment to the water flow, and a second enhancement module is required to provide a second treatment to the water flow. In some embodiments, enhancement module 222 receives a treated water flow from a water treatment system, and enhancement module 222 provides a second treatment to the water flow. The user may expect multiple types of water treatment, so multiple enhancement modules are obtained, each of which provides different treatments to the water flow. In some embodiments, enhancement module 222 includes an ozone generator (e.g., a corona discharge ozone generator, a UV light ozone generator, a venturi ozone generator, etc.). In some embodiments, enhancement module 222 includes an electrolysis device, which is configured to electrolyze the water flowing through enhancement module 222. The electrolysis device can be configured to change the pH of the water flow flowing through enhancement module 222. In some embodiments, enhancement module 222 includes a bubble generator (e.g., a microbubble generator, a nanobubble generator, etc.). In some embodiments, enhancement module 222 is configured to provide a cleaning solution (e.g., soap, detergent, concentrate, etc.) to the water flow. In some embodiments, the enhancement module 222 is configured to convert the water flow into a steam flow. In some embodiments, the enhancement module 222 includes a scrubbing device (e.g., scrubbing device 288) having an actuator (e.g., actuator 290, motor, etc.) and a brush 122. In some embodiments, the scrubbing device is configured to oscillate and / or rotate the brush 122 to provide an improved scrubbing experience. In some embodiments, the scrubbing device receives power via accessories 227. In some embodiments, the brush 122 is coupled to the enhancement module 222 and is not configured to move independently of the enhancement module 222. In some embodiments, the scrubbing device is an additional feature included in, for example, a bubble generator, an ozone generator, and similar treatment devices.

[0059] The fixture 202 further includes a handle control 116 coupled to the base 210 and a user interface controller 200. The base 210 includes a substantially cylindrical control body 240 positioned orthogonal to the base 210 and orthogonal to the neck 212. The control body 240 includes a first end 242 and a second end 244. The handle control 116 is coupled to the control body 240 proximate the first end 242. The user interface controller 200 can be connected to the control body 240 opposite the handle control 116 and proximate the second end 244. The user interface controller 200 can be engaged by a user to send instructions to the system controller 230 for operating the enhancement module 222 in response to detecting that the handle control 116 is positioned outside the closed position. Specifically, when the handle control 116 is in the closed position, in response to the handle control 116 being moved outside the closed position, the user can engage the user interface controller 200 to provide instructions to the system controller 230 on how to operate the faucet system 100 and specifically the enhancement module 222. In some embodiments, the system controller 230 disables the user interface controller 200 in response to detecting movement of the handle control 116 outside of the closed position.

[0060] The user interface controller 200 may include capacitive touch sensors, push buttons, dials, toggles, switches, and the like. In some embodiments, the user interface controller 200 includes an LCD screen for displaying the condition of the water treatment system 104. For example, if the user interface controller 200 is operated to send an instruction to the system controller 230 to activate the treatment device in response to detecting that the handle control 116 is not in the closed position, the LCD screen may display an image, number, text, or some other indicator that the treatment device of the enhancement module 222 is in a standby mode and is ready to be activated in response to an input received by the handle control 116 (e.g., moving the handle control 116 out of the closed position).

[0061] The fixture 202 further includes a fixture indicator 246 that is configured to change appearance in response to input provided to the faucet system 100 (including the fixture 202) (e.g., input received from any of the user interface controller 200, the handle control 116, or the module interface 258). The fixture indicator 246 can be a light (e.g., an LED) that is configured to change modes (e.g., brightness, color, solid, flashing, on / off, etc.) depending on the state of one of the enhancement module 222 or the water treatment system 104. Although the fixture indicator 246 is shown as a narrow light, the fixture indicator 246 can take a variety of forms, including a ring of light that wraps circumferentially around the base 210.

[0062] Reference now Figure 4and 5 , the enhancement module 222 is shown as an ozone module 250 (e.g., an ozone generation module, an ozone generator, an ozone generator, etc.). The ozone module 250 is configured to receive a water flow from the fixture 202, selectively treat the water flow, and discharge the treated water. In some embodiments, the ozone module 250 receives a treated water flow and then provides a second treatment to the treated water flow. For example, the ozone module 250 can receive a water flow having a pH greater than 7 (e.g., 8), and then ozonate the treated water to provide an ozonated high pH water flow. In some embodiments, the ozone module 250 is an electrolytic ozonation device that is configured to pass an electric current through water to decompose oxygen molecules into oxygen atoms and form ozone water. In some embodiments, the ozone module 250 is a venturi injector ozonation device that is configured to dissolve ozone gas into a water flow using a venturi nozzle. In some embodiments, the ozone module 250 is an ultraviolet ozone generator that uses ultraviolet light to decompose oxygen molecules into oxygen atoms, which combine with oxygen molecules to form ozone water.

[0063] The ozone module 250 includes an inlet 252 and an outlet 254. The inlet 252 includes a module fitting 228 and is configured to couple with the handle portion 220 of the fixture 202. As described above, the module fitting 228 is configured to receive power and data (in some embodiments) from the faucet system 100 (e.g., the handle fitting 226) when coupled to the fixture 202. Figure 4 , the ozone module 250 includes a substantially cylindrical body 256 having an outlet 254 positioned at one end of the cylindrical body 256. The inlet 252 can be positioned on the side of the cylindrical body 256 so that the water flow enters the ozone module 250 at an angle relative to the axis of the cylindrical body 256. In other words, the inlet 252 and the outlet 254 are not parallel or co-linear with each other (e.g., the inlet 252 is not opposite the outlet 254). In some embodiments, as Figure 5 As shown, the inlet 252 and the outlet 254 are collinear. In other words, the water flow enters the ozone module 250 through the end of the cylindrical body 256 opposite the outlet 254 (eg, the inlet 252 is opposite the outlet 254).

[0064] The ozone module 250 further includes a module interface 258 operable by a user. The module interface 258 may be located at an end of the cylindrical body 256, or as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, it can be positioned on one side of the cylindrical body 256. Figure 4, the module interface 258 is positioned to be rotated 180 degrees from the inlet 252. The module interface 258 is configured to adjust the operation of the faucet system 100. In some embodiments, interaction with the module interface 258 causes the spray mode of the ozone module 250 to change. For example, the ozone module 250 may default to laminar flow or aerated flow (e.g., flow), and interaction with the module interface 258 may change the spray mode to a different spray mode, such as "shower". The module interface 258 may be mechanical so that no electricity is required to change the spray mode. In some embodiments, for example when the ozone module 250 includes a closed-loop controller that is communicatively isolated from the faucet system 100, interaction with the module interface 258 may activate and deactivate the ozone module 250 so that the water flow through the ozone module 250 is selectively treated. In some embodiments, user interaction with the module interface 258 changes the concentration of ozone water generated by the ozone module 250. For example, the module interface 258 may include up and down buttons represented by arrows or "-" and "+" symbols that allow a user to adjust the ozone concentration of the water stream exiting the ozone module 250. In some embodiments, the module interface 258 adjusts the internal processing device 260 ( Figure 5 ) input voltage. In some embodiments, the ozone module 250 includes a module flow sensor 257 that measures the ozone concentration of the water discharged from the ozone module 250. Accordingly, a user can select a specific concentration (e.g., 2 PPM) using the module interface 258, and the closed-loop controller of the ozone module 250 can automatically adjust the input voltage to achieve the desired concentration (e.g., via a feedback loop controller). In some embodiments, interaction with the module interface 258 activates and deactivates the treatment device 260, which can occur regardless of whether water is flowing through the ozone module 250.

[0065] In some embodiments, the ozone module 250 communicates with the system controller 230 of the faucet system 100 via the fitting 227. For example, when the ozone module 250 is coupled to the handle portion 220, the system controller 230 can detect that the ozone module 250 is coupled to the faucet system 100 and selectively control the behavior of the ozone module 250. For example, the system controller 230 can set a temperature limit (e.g., a maximum value) or a flow rate limit on the faucet system 100 to prevent damage to the ozone module 250. In some embodiments, the system controller 230 sets a temperature minimum or a flow rate minimum, below which the system controller 230 deactivates the operation of the treatment device 260. For example, if the module flow sensor 257 detects that the flow rate through the ozone module 250 is below a threshold flow rate, the system controller 230 can deactivate the treatment device 260 and / or disable the module interface 258 to prevent actuation of the treatment device 260. In some embodiments, if the faucet system 100 is off and no water is provided to the ozone module 250, the system controller 230 prevents operation of the ozone module 250. This may be desirable to prevent a module from "running dry" because some modules may be damaged or cause harm when operated without water flow (e.g., when the steam generator is left on without water running). The system controller 230 may receive a signal from the ozone module 250 and be configured to turn on the ozone generator when a start command is received (e.g., from the handle control 116). For example, the module interface 258 may include an "activate" switch that sends a signal to the system controller 230 in response to receiving a command to start flow (e.g., in response to detecting that the handle control 116 is moved out of the closed position) to activate the treatment device 260.

[0066] When the module interface 258 is set to "active," the processing device 260 remains off until the system controller 230 receives a "start flow" signal (eg, from the handle control 116).

[0067] When the system controller 230 receives a "start flow" command (e.g., from a user operating the handle control 116 and the mixing valve 118 to start the flow of water through the faucet system 100), the system controller 230 activates the treatment device 260 to treat the water flow. In some embodiments, the system controller 230 implements a time delay when activating the treatment device to prevent the treatment device 260 from running dry.

[0068] In some embodiments, the system controller 230 deactivates the module interface 258 in response to receiving the start command so that the treatment device 260 is not selectively operable when water is draining from the ozone module 250. To activate or deactivate the treatment device 260, the user would have to turn off the water (e.g., using the handle control 116 and the mixing valve 118) and then engage the module interface 258. This can prevent accidental activation or deactivation of the treatment device 260 during use. This may be desirable for embodiments where the ozone module 250 includes a brush 122 and the user manipulates the ozone module 250 to scrub something in the sink.

[0069] In some embodiments, the system controller 230 is configured to detect both approved enhancement modules 222 and unapproved enhancement modules 222. For example, if a user attempts to connect an unapproved enhancement module 222 to the handle portion 220, the system controller 230 detects that the enhancement module 222 is unapproved and does not provide power and / or data to the unapproved enhancement module. Such an embodiment may be desirable in situations where the unapproved enhancement module has compatibility issues with the system controller 230 or the handle accessory 226. For example, an improperly calibrated voltage regulator or poorly insulated electronics contained in an unapproved enhancement module may cause shock and / or burns to the user.

[0070] Specific reference Figure 5 , a cross-sectional view of an ozone module 250 is shown according to an example embodiment. A treatment device 260 is positioned near the end of the cylindrical body 256 opposite the outlet 254. The treatment device 260 is positioned upstream of the outlet 254 and is configured to receive a flow of water from the fixture 202. The ozone module 250 further includes a spray dial 259 positioned near the outlet 254. The spray dial 259 is pivotally (e.g., rotatably) coupled to the cylindrical body 256 and is configured to adjust a spray pattern of the ozone module 250. Rotation of the spray dial 259 relative to the cylindrical body 256 causes the spray pattern of the ozone module 250 to change (e.g., from a stream spray to a shower spray).

[0071] In some embodiments, the cylindrical body 256 includes an air input 264. The air input 264 extends through the cylindrical body 256 and into the processing device 260. In embodiments where the ozone module 250 is a venturi ozonator, the air input 264 receives an air stream, converts the air into ozone gas, and dissolves the ozone gas into a water stream to form an ozonated water stream.

[0072] Reference now Figure 6, a cross-sectional view of an ozone module 250 is shown according to an example embodiment. The ozone module 250 includes a module accessory 228, which is configured to be connected to a fixture (e.g., fixture 102 and fixture 202). The module accessory 228 receives a water flow from the fixture and provides the water flow to the treatment device 260 via a water supply conduit 262. The treatment device 260 can operate in "activated" and "inactivated" states. Within the activated state, the treatment device 260 can be operated at different intensities so that the water flow includes more or less treatment. For example, in an embodiment where the treatment device 260 is an ozone generator, the ozone generator can be operated to provide various concentrations of ozone to the water flow (e.g., 2PPM, 4PPM, 8PPM, etc.). When the treatment device 260 is in an inactivated state, the water flow can flow through the treatment device 260 without being treated. As Figure 6 As shown, the only flow path from the module assembly 228 to the outlet 254 is through the treatment device 260. Thus, the treatment device 260 is configured to allow uninterrupted flow (or nearly uninterrupted flow) of water therethrough when the treatment device 260 is in an inactive state.

[0073] The processing device 260 is further configured to receive power via the module accessory 228. The processing device 260 can be a low-watt ozonation device that requires a power input between 3-4.5 watts. In some embodiments, the ozone module 250 includes a rechargeable power source (e.g., a battery), and the ozone module 250 is configured for docking in a charging station when disconnected from the handle portion 220.

[0074] In some embodiments, the ozone module 250 further includes a spray nozzle 265 coupled to the outlet 254 and configured to provide a mist spray pattern. In some embodiments, the module interface 258 is a toggle switch that controls the spray output of the ozone module 250 but does not affect the operation of the treatment device 260. For example, in embodiments where the user interface controller 200 is physically separate from the ozone module 250, the user interface controller 200 can be configured to cause the treatment device 260 to operate regardless of user engagement with the module interface 258. This may be desirable to prevent the treatment device 260 from being accidentally activated and deactivated when the user manipulates the first spray head 114 (e.g., for scrubbing).

[0075] The ozone module 250 further includes a module indicator 268. Figure 6As shown, module indicator 268 is a light (e.g., an LED) that can change modes (e.g., brightness, color, solid, flashing, on / off, etc.) depending on the state of treatment device 260. Module indicator 268 can indicate to a user the operational state of treatment device 260. For example, if treatment device 260 is configured to be inactive when (e.g., while) water is flowing through fixture 202, module indicator 268 can illuminate solid green. When treatment device 260 is configured to be activated when water is flowing through fixture 202, module indicator 268 can be flashing red.

[0076] Reference now Figure 8 , a cross-sectional view of an ozone module 250 is shown according to another exemplary embodiment. The ozone module 250 includes a module fitting 228 configured to be coupled to a fixture (e.g., fixture 102 and fixture 202). The module fitting 228 receives a water flow and provides the water flow to a treatment device 260 via a water supply conduit 262. Figure 7 The ozone module 250 in Figure 6 The ozone module 250 in is similar. Figure 6 The ozone module 250 with Figure 7 One difference between the ozone modules is that Figure 7 The ozone module 250 includes a bypass conduit 263 that provides a flow path from the inlet 252 to the outlet 254 that does not pass through the treatment device 260. The module interface 258 can be a mechanical valve that mechanically opens and closes the bypass conduit 263, and simultaneously and separately closes and opens the water supply conduit to the treatment device 260. Figure 7As shown, the module interface 258 is in a default position (e.g., not pressed, not pressed, etc.). When the module interface 258 is in the default position, water is prevented from entering the treatment device 260 and water is allowed to flow through the bypass conduit 263, so that the water leaving the ozone module 250 is not treated by the treatment device 260. When the module interface 258 is depressed (e.g., pressed, activated, engaged, etc.), the module interface 258 prevents water from flowing through the bypass conduit 263 and allows water to flow through the water supply conduit 262 and through the treatment device 260. In some embodiments, the module interface 258 can be reconfigured so that water flows through the treatment device 260 when in the default position, and when the module interface 258 is depressed, water is prevented from flowing through the treatment device 260 and is biased (e.g., redirected) through the bypass conduit 263. In some embodiments, the module interface 258 is configured so that the flow path is a binary choice. In other words, either all water flow is directed through feed conduit 262 to treatment device 260, or all water flow is directed through bypass conduit 263. In some embodiments, module interface 258 is configured to allow a user to direct a portion of water flow through both treatment device 260 and bypass conduit 263 simultaneously.

[0077] In some embodiments, the treatment device 260 is automatically activated in response to moving the handle control 116 out of the closed position so that any water flowing through the treatment device 260 will be treated. In some embodiments, the treatment device 260 includes a module flow sensor 257 that detects when water flows through the treatment device 260. The module flow sensor 257 can detect the flow rate and / or temperature of the water flowing through the treatment device 260. In response to the module flow sensor 257 detecting that a threshold amount of water is flowing through the treatment device 260, the treatment device 260 can automatically activate and treat the water flowing through the treatment device 260. The treatment device 260 is further configured to automatically deactivate (e.g., shut down) in response to the module flow sensor 257 detecting that the water flow flowing through the treatment device has fallen below a threshold flow rate and / or a threshold temperature. For example, if the treatment device 260 is an ozone generator, the ozone generator may require a certain flow rate to prevent damage to electrodes and other internal components. In some embodiments, such as where the module interface 258 is entirely mechanical, the module interface 258 does not directly control the activation and deactivation of the treatment device 260. For example, even if the module interface 258 is activated such that 100% of the water flow passes through the treatment device 260, the treatment device 260 may not be activated because the water flow into the ozone module 250 controlled by, for example, the handle control 116 or the user interface controller 200 may not meet the minimum flow rate threshold and / or the minimum temperature threshold required to activate the treatment device 260 via the module flow sensor 257.

[0078] Reference now Figure 8, the enhancement module 222 is shown as a bubble module (e.g., a bubble generator, a micro-bubble generator, a nano-bubble generator, etc.) 280. The bubble module 280 is configured to receive the water flow from the fixture 202, form (e.g., generate) bubbles in the water flow, and discharge the treated water from the outlet 254. The bubble module 280 is similar to the ozone module 250. Therefore, similar numbers are used to represent parts of similar components between the ozone module 250 and the bubble module 280. The difference between the bubble module 280 and the ozone module 250 is that the bubble module 280 includes a second treatment device shown as a bubble device 282, which is positioned downstream of the treatment device 260 (e.g., the first treatment device) and positioned upstream of the outlet 254. In some embodiments, the bubble device 282 can be positioned upstream of the treatment device 260. The bubble device 282 is configured to form bubbles in the water flow, whether it is a treated water flow or an untreated water flow. In embodiments where the bubble module 280 includes both the processing device 260 and the bubble device 282, the bubble module 280 is configured to provide an ozone water flow having bubbles. The module interface 258 may include additional controls (e.g., additional buttons, sliders, toggles, and the like) such that both the processing device 260 and the bubble device 282 are configurable (e.g., controllable) via the module interface 258. As outlined above with respect to the ozone module 250, the bubble device 282 may be controlled in the same manner (e.g., closed-loop control, controllable by the faucet system 100, controllable using an external remote control, controllable via a mobile device (e.g., a mobile phone), etc.).

[0079] The bubble module 280 further includes a module indicator 268. Figure 6 As shown, the module indicator 268 is a light (e.g., LED) that can change modes (e.g., brightness, color, constant, flashing, on / off, etc.) according to the state of the bubble module 280. As will be understood, the module indicator 268 can be provided with any of the enhancement modules 222 disclosed in the present application (e.g., ozone module 250, bubble module 280, concentrate module 284, etc.). The module indicator 268 is coupled to the bubble module 280 near the outlet 254 and emits light away from the end of the cylindrical body 256. For example, if the water flow leaves the bubble module 280, the module indicator 268 can shine light into the water flow and through the water flow. The module indicator 268 can indicate the operating status of the bubble module 280 to the user. Since microbubbles and nanobubbles reflect light, the module indicator 268 can be configured to turn on when the bubble module 280 is configured to discharge the bubble-treated water flow, but otherwise the module indicator 268 can be turned off. Therefore, the user can be able to see the bubbles in the water flow, which may be aesthetically pleasing.

[0080] Reference now Fig. 9and Fig.10 , the enhancement module 222 is shown as a concentrate module 284. The concentrate module 284 is similar to the ozone module 250. Therefore, similar numbers are used to represent similar components between the ozone module 250 and the concentrate module 284. The difference between the ozone module 250 and the concentrate module 284 is that the concentrate module 284 includes a module reservoir 286 for holding a volume of concentrate (e.g., liquid concentrate, powder concentrate, etc.). The module reservoir 286 is coupled to (e.g., selectively coupled to, removably coupled to) the cylindrical body 256. The module reservoir 286 is in fluid communication with the inlet 252 and the outlet 254 so that the concentrate module 284 can add concentrate to the water flow downstream of the inlet 252 and upstream of the outlet 254. In some embodiments, the concentrate module 284 is configured to provide concentrate from the module reservoir 286 to the water flow discharged from the outlet 254 so that the concentrate does not combine with the water flow within the concentrate module 284. The concentrate may be a soap, a cleaning concentrate (e.g., bleach, detergent, pine sol, etc.), laundry detergent, and the like. In some embodiments, the module reservoir 286 is removably coupled to the cylindrical body 256 so that the module reservoir 286 can be removed, cleaned, refilled, and replaced. In some embodiments, the module reservoir 286 is integrally formed with the cylindrical body 256 and can be refilled via a check valve or similar fitting. In some embodiments, the module reservoir 286 is self-cleaning. For example, a control on the module interface 258 may allow a user to divert the water flow provided by the fixture directly into the module reservoir 286 for the purpose of flushing out the remaining concentrate. In some embodiments, the module reservoir 286 is flexible so that pressing the module reservoir 286 discharges the concentrate into the water flow flowing through the concentrate module 284. In some embodiments, a portion of the module reservoir 286 is flexible (e.g., the module reservoir 286 includes a push-button) so that user interaction with the flexible portion of the module reservoir 286 discharges a portion of the concentrate into the water flow.

[0081] The cylindrical body 256 further includes a module interface 258. The concentration can be controlled via the module interface 258. For example, the module interface 258 can include up and down buttons and an LCD screen. The user interaction of the up button can increase the output concentration of the concentrate entering the water flow, while outputting the concentration to the LCD screen so that the user can visually see the concentration output from the concentrate module 284. For example, highly concentrated detergents (such as decalcifiers and desludging agents (delimer)) can be discharged at a small ratio (such as a ratio of 1:60 or 1:30). When the concentrate module 284 is configured to discharge a water flow with a 1:60 concentrate ratio, "1:60" can be displayed on the LCD screen. In an embodiment where the concentrate (such as dishwashing detergent) is less effective, the up button can be pressed, and the concentrate module 284 can discharge a larger ratio of concentration, such as 1:15 or 1:8. When the concentrate module 284 is configured to discharge a water flow with a 1:8 concentrate ratio, "1:8" can be displayed on the LCD screen.

[0082] Specific reference Fig. 9 , the inlet 252 of the concentrate module 284 extends from the cylindrical body 256 at an angle that is neither parallel nor perpendicular to the outlet 254. Fig.10 As shown, the inlet 252 extends perpendicularly from the cylindrical body 256 relative to the central axis of the cylindrical body 256 .

[0083] Specific reference Fig.10 , a cross-sectional view of a concentrate module 284 is shown. The concentrate module 284 further includes a scrubbing device 288, which includes an actuator 290 positioned within the cylindrical body 256 and a brush 122 coupled to the cylindrical body 256 near the outlet 254. The actuator 290 can be a low-wattage actuator configured to receive power via the accessory 227. In some embodiments, the concentrate module 284 includes a rechargeable power source (e.g., a rechargeable battery). When the concentrate module 284 is removed from the handle portion 220, the concentrate module 284 can be charged on a charging dock. The actuator 290 is operably coupled to the brush 122, which is rotatably (e.g., pivotally) coupled to the cylindrical body 256. In response to a user interaction with the control of the faucet system 100, the brush 122 is operated (e.g., rotated, spun, oscillated, etc.) by the actuator 290. In some embodiments, the scrubbing device 288 is actuated in response to user interaction with the module interface 258. In some embodiments, the scrubbing device 288 is actuated in response to user input to the user interface controller 200.

[0084] In some embodiments, such as when the accessory 227 includes both power and data, the scrubbing device 288 can be communicatively coupled to the system controller 230. The system controller 230 can selectively allow operation of the scrubbing device 288 in response to detecting the docked position of the first spray head 214. For example, if the first spray head 214 is in the docked position, the system controller 230 can prevent the module interface 258 from actuating the scrubbing device 288 so that the scrubbing device 288 does not oscillate and begin to move while the first spray head 214 is docked.

[0085] Reference now Fig.11 , the enhancement module 222 is shown as a scrubbing module 294. The scrubbing module 294 is similar to the ozone module 250. Therefore, similar numbers are used to represent similar components between the scrubbing module 294 and the ozone module 250. The difference between the ozone module 250 and the scrubbing module 294 is that the scrubbing module 294 includes a scrubbing device 288. In some embodiments, it may be desirable to scrub the surface while dispensing the treated water flow. For example, the treatment device 260 can be configured to form bubbles in the water flow to assist the scrubbing of the scrubbing device 288. In some embodiments, the brush 122 is removable and replaceable. For example, the brush 122 may be damaged or worn due to scrubbing rough surfaces (including cast iron, ovens and grates, oven racks, and the like). The user can have multiple brushes, each with different brush stiffness and length. As can be appreciated, for cleaning purposes, many accessories can be operably connected to the actuator 290 (e.g., sponges, scrubbing pads, steel wool, wire brushes, etc.).

[0086] Reference now Fig.12, the enhancement module 222 is shown as a steam module 128. The steam module 128 is similar to the scrubbing module 294. Therefore, similar numbers are used to represent similar components between the steam module 128 and the scrubbing module 294. The difference between the scrubbing module 294 and the steam module 128 is that the processing device 260 of the steam module 128 is a steam device. The steam device is configured to receive a water flow and output steam via an outlet 254. The steam module 128 may include an insulating jacket 296 (e.g., one made of silicone) that surrounds the cylindrical body 256 and remains cool when the insulating jacket 296 is touched when the steam device is activated. When the accessory 227 includes both power transmission and data transmission, the steam device can be communicatively connected to the system controller 230 via the accessory 227. The system controller 230 is configured to selectively activate or deactivate the steam device in response to user interaction with the faucet system 100 (e.g., user interface controller 200, module interface 258). In some embodiments, when the first spray head 214 is in the docking position, the system controller 230 prevents the activation of the steam device. In some embodiments, re-docking the first spray head 214 to the neck 112 of the fixture 202 automatically deactivates the steam device. In some embodiments, the system controller 230 is configured to activate the steam device only when certain conditions (e.g., after) of the faucet system 100 are met. For example, in order to activate the steam device with the module interface 258, the water flow reaches a certain temperature (e.g., 100°F). When the water reaches a predetermined temperature, the system controller 230 activates the module interface 258 and allows the user to activate the steam device after removing the first spray head 214 from the neck 112. In some embodiments, the system controller 230 automatically activates the steam device in response to meeting certain conditions. For example, when the water flow through the fixture 102 reaches a predetermined temperature, the system controller 230 can activate the steam device and turn on the module indicator 268 to signal the user that the steam module 128 is ready for use. The scrubbing device 288 coupled to the steam module 128 may include a heat resistant brush 122 having stiff bristles.

[0087] Reference now Fig.13 , a faucet system 300 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The faucet system 300 is configured to receive a water flow, selectively treat the water flow, and discharge the water flow, whether it is a treated water flow or an untreated water flow. The faucet system 300 is similar to the faucet system 100. Therefore, similar numbers are used to represent similar components between the faucet system 100 and the faucet system 300. The difference between the faucet system 100 and the faucet system 300 is that the faucet system 300 does not include the second spray head 124.

[0088] The faucet system 300 includes a fixture 302 and a water treatment system 304. The fixture 302 includes a base 210, a neck 212, and a first spray head 214. Positioned below the fixture 302 is a reservoir module 140, which includes a first reservoir 142, a second reservoir 144, and a third reservoir 146. Fluidically coupled to the reservoir module 140 and positioned upstream of the reservoir module 140 is a valve assembly 310. The valve assembly 310 is configured to receive a supply of hot and cold water (e.g., from a municipal supply line) and provide a mixed water flow to the reservoir module 140 via a supply conduit 312. In some embodiments, the valve assembly 310 is combined with the reservoir module 140 such that the supply conduit 312 is integrated within the reservoir module 140. In some embodiments, the hot water supply flow and the cold water supply flow are combined downstream of the reservoir module 140. For example, a cold water stream can be in fluid communication with the reservoir module 140 such that the first reservoir 142, the second reservoir 144, and the third reservoir 146 contain cold water (e.g., 80°F or less) and the reservoir module 140 processes the cold water. In such an embodiment, the valve assembly 310 is positioned downstream of the reservoir module 140 such that the valve assembly 310 receives a hot water stream (e.g., 120°F) from the hot supply line and a cold water supply from the reservoir module 140. The valve assembly 310 is configured to combine the water streams to generate a water stream having a desired temperature, and the valve assembly 310 is configured to provide the water stream to the fixture 302. The valve assembly 310 may include a straight-through conduit that bypasses the first reservoir 142, the second reservoir 144, and the third reservoir 146 such that an untreated cold water stream is mixed by the valve assembly 310 and provided to the fixture 302. In some embodiments, a hot water supply is provided to the reservoir module 140 , and a cold water supply is provided directly to the valve assembly 310 downstream of the reservoir module 140 .

[0089] The first reservoir 142 is configured to hold a water volume and selectively process the water volume. In some embodiments, the first reservoir 142 is an ozone reservoir configured to form and maintain a first ozone water volume. The first reservoir 142 includes an ozone generation device 320, which can ozonate the first water volume by: electrolytic ozonation, dissolving ozone gas in the water volume (e.g., by venturi injection or other known dissolution methods), ultraviolet ozonation of the water volume, any combination of the aforementioned ozonation methods, or any other known method for generating ozone water in a water volume. The ozone reservoir can be communicatively coupled to the system controller 230 so that a user interface controller (e.g., user interface controller 200) controls the operation of the first reservoir 142. For example, the user interface controller 200 can allow a user to adjust the ozone concentration of the water volume in the first reservoir 142. In some embodiments, the first reservoir 142 automatically maintains a default amount of ozone water at a default concentration. In response to a request for an ozone water flow, such as from the user interface controller 200, the valve assembly 310 may selectively combine the ozone water from the first reservoir 142 with untreated water from the supply line to provide an ozonated water flow having a desired concentration.

[0090] The second reservoir 144 is configured to hold a second water volume that is fluidly isolated from the first water volume held by the first reservoir 142. The second reservoir 144 can be a bubble reservoir that is configured to selectively form bubbles in the second water volume. The second reservoir 144 includes a bubble generator 322 that is communicatively coupled to the system controller 230 so that user interaction with the user interface controller controls the operation of the bubble generator 322. For example, the user can select the type of bubbles (nanobubbles or microbubbles) generated by the bubble generator 322 in the second water volume. The second reservoir 144 further includes a fill sensor 324 that is configured to measure the second water volume within the second reservoir 144. The fill sensor 324 can send a signal to the system controller 230 to operate the valve assembly 310 to automatically divert the water flow to the second reservoir 144 without the user providing additional input. For example, the fill sensor 324 can detect that the second water volume has reached a minimum level and initialize the filling of the second reservoir 144. The fill sensor 324 may then detect that the second reservoir 144 is filled to the maximum level to stop the fill event of the second reservoir 144 .

[0091] The third reservoir 146 is configured to keep the third water volume, and the third reservoir 146 is isolated from the first reservoir 142 and the second reservoir 144 fluid. The third reservoir 146 can be a steam reservoir, which is configured to generate steam and provide steam flow to the first spray head 214. The third reservoir 146 includes a steam generator 326, which is configured to convert the third water volume into steam. The steam generator 326 is operably connected to the system controller 230 so that (for example, with the user interface controller 200) user interaction controls the operation of the steam generator 326. For example, the steam generator 326 can default to standby mode, wherein the third water volume is heated to a high temperature, but is not heated to be enough to form steam. In response to the start command (for example, from the handle control 116) received by the system controller 230, the system controller 230 can operate the steam generator 326 to generate steam from the third water volume and provide steam to the first spray head 214. The first fluid conduit 115 can be a heat-resistant and insulated conduit so that the steam generated by the steam generator 326 can reach the first spray head 214 without significant heat loss. In some embodiments, the first fluid conduit 115 includes an inline heater, which maintains a higher temperature of the first fluid conduit 115 when the inline heater of the steam generator 326 is activated, but turns off the inline heater in other cases. In some embodiments, the first spray head 214 is an enhancement module 222, which is specially designed to handle high-temperature steam provided from the third reservoir 146. In such an embodiment, the system controller 230 can receive a signal from the enhancement module 222, indicating whether the enhancement module 222 is configured to receive high-temperature steam. For example, if the enhancement module 222 is not configured to handle steam, the system controller 230 can prevent the activation of the steam generator 326 to prevent damage to the enhancement module 222 and prevent injury to the user. If the enhancement module 222 is configured to process steam (eg, the steam module 128 ), the system controller 230 may receive a signal (eg, via the accessory 227 ) that the steam generator 326 may be activated in response to a user interaction with the faucet system 300 .

[0092] Still reference Fig.13 , the first nozzle 214 may be an enhancement module 222 (eg, a scrubbing module 294 ( Fig. 9 )). The scrubbing module 294 can be communicatively coupled to the system controller 230 and the reservoir module 140 via a first electrical conduit 117 extending along the length of the first fluid conduit 115. The first electrical conduit 117 can provide both power and data to the first spray head 214.

[0093] Reference now Fig.14, a faucet system 400 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The faucet system 400 includes a first fixture 402, a second fixture 403, and a water treatment system 404. The water treatment system 404 includes a valve assembly 406 positioned below a surface 101 on which the first fixture 402 and the second fixture 403 are mounted. The first fixture 402 is similar to the fixture 102. Therefore, similar numbers are used to represent similar components between the fixture 102 and the first fixture 402. The difference between the first fixture 402 and the fixture 102 is that the first fixture 402 does not include the second spray head 124. Instead, the faucet system 400 includes a second fixture 403 that can be retracted into the surface 101. The second fixture 403 can be fluidly isolated from the first fixture 402 so that two different water streams can be discharged from the first fixture 402 and the second fixture 403 at the same time. The first fixture 402 and the second fixture 403 are fluidly coupled to the valve assembly 406 and are configured to receive a flow of water from the valve assembly 406 .

[0094] The water treatment system 404 is configured to receive a water stream, selectively treat the water stream, and provide the water stream to one or both of the first fixture 402 and the second fixture 403. For example, the water treatment system 404 can discharge ozone water, filtered water, water with concentrate, water with bubbles, electrolyzed water, pH adjusted water, and the like. In some embodiments, the valve assembly 406 includes a water treatment device 410 that is configured to selectively treat the water stream provided to the first fixture 402. In some embodiments, the valve assembly 406 is substantially similar to the reservoir module 140. The valve assembly 406 is further configured to provide multiple water streams, such that a first treated water stream is provided by the valve assembly 406 to the first fixture 402, and a second treated water stream is provided by the valve assembly 406 to the second fixture 403, wherein the treatment provided to the first treated water stream is different from the treatment provided to the second water stream. For example, the valve assembly 406 can provide a nanobubble water stream to the first fixture 402 and a steam stream to the second fixture 403.

[0095] The second fixture 403 includes a second spray head 842 and a second fluid conduit 844 extending between and fluidly coupling the second spray head 842 and the valve assembly 406. In some embodiments, an electrical conduit 846 extends along the length of the second fluid conduit 844 and communicatively couples the second spray head 842 to the valve assembly 406. The electrical conduit 846 is configured to carry data signals, electrical power, or both electrical power and data signals.

[0096] The second spray head 842 can be an enhancement module 222 that is configured to process the fluid received from the valve assembly 406. For example, the valve assembly 406 can include no treatment device 410, such that the enhancement module 222 provides only treatment to the second water stream. In some embodiments, both the treatment device 410 and the enhancement module 222 of the valve assembly 406 are configured to process the second water stream. For example, the treatment device 410 can ozonate the second water stream, and the enhancement module 222 can selectively discharge concentrate into the second water stream. The second spray head 842 can be removably coupled to the second fluid conduit 844, such that the second spray head 842 can be replaced by any of the enhancement modules 222 outlined above. The second fluid conduit 844 can include a fitting 849 configured to couple with the enhancement module 222 and a structure to provide power and / or data to the enhancement module 222 via an electrical conduit 846.

[0097] The second spray head 842 includes a module interface 258 configured to send a signal to the valve assembly 406. When a user interacts with the module interface 258 (e.g., presses, touches, switches, etc.), the treated fluid is discharged from the second spray head 842. In an embodiment, for example, when the second spray head 842 is an ozone module 250, the system controller 230 is configured so that interaction with the module interface 258 both activates (e.g., turns on) the ozonator in the ozone module 250 and starts the flow of water through the water treatment system 404 and to the second fixture 403. In other words, the module interface 258 sends a signal to the valve assembly 406 to provide water flow to the second spray head 842, and sends a signal to the ozone module 250 to treat the water flow, and these two signals are sent simultaneously from the same interface (e.g., the module interface 258).

[0098] The faucet system 400 further includes a user interface controller 200 configured to provide signals to a system controller 230 of the faucet system 400. The user interface controller 200 allows a user to control the output of the first spray head 214 and the second spray head 842. For example, where the enhancement module 222 is an ozone module (e.g., ozone module 250), the user interface controller 200 can set an ozone state (e.g., "on" or "off") and an ozone setting, (e.g., a desired ozone concentration in parts per million (PPM)). When the ozone state is set to "on", activation of the module interface 258 simultaneously activates the ozone module and initiates water flow through the faucet system 400. In some embodiments, when the ozone state is set to "on", engagement with the module interface 258 causes water flow through the second fixture 403. After a predetermined non-zero time delay (e.g., 1 second, 3 seconds, etc.), the system controller 230 activates the ozone module to treat the water flow through the second spray head 842. The above configuration may be desirable in situations where activating the enhancement module 222 without water may damage the enhancement module 222. In some embodiments, the second spray head 842 includes a module indicator 268 that visually indicates the state of the ozone to the user. For example, a red light may be displayed to indicate that the second spray head 842 is in a treatment mode, such that an activation signal (e.g., a signal that activates water flow through the valve assembly 406 and to at least one of the first fixture 402 and the second fixture 403, such as a signal from the handle control 116) causes activation of the enhancement module 222 and causes treated water to flow out of the second spray head 842. In some embodiments, a green light may be displayed to indicate that the second spray head 842 is in a non-treatment mode, or that the second spray head 842 is discharging an untreated water flow.

[0099] The user interface controller 200 may be further configured to control various other enhancement modules 222. For example, the enhancement module 222 may be a scrubbing module (e.g., scrubbing module 294) that includes a module reservoir (e.g., module reservoir 286) and a scrubbing device (e.g., scrubbing device 288). When the scrubbing module is coupled to the second fluid conduit 844 using the accessory 849, the scrubbing module may send a signal to the system controller 230 that the scrubbing module has been coupled to the second fluid conduit 844. After the controller receives the signal from the scrubbing module that the scrubbing module has been coupled to the second fluid conduit 844, the user interface controller 200 may be updated to provide controls for operating the scrubbing module. In some embodiments, the user interface controller 200 may include a touch screen (e.g., a touch display) that is updated in response to detecting which module is coupled to the accessory 849. As described above, any one of the steam module 128, the ozone module 250, the bubble module 280, the concentrate module 284, and the scrubbing module 294 may send a signal to the user interface controller 200 to update the display 852.

[0100] Now back to Fig.15 , the user interface controller 200 is shown as a control disk 848. The control disk 848 includes a generally cylindrical body having a movable dial 850 that can rotate relative to a display 852. The display 852 may include a system indicator 854 that indicates to the user which module is fluidly coupled to the second fluid conduit 844. Fig.15 As shown, the system indicator 854 is shown as "Ozone", which means that the ozone module (e.g., ozone module 250) is fluidly connected to the second fluid conduit 844. The circumference of the display 852 near the control disc 848 is an adjustable scale 858, which allows the user to adjust the concentration of the ozone water discharged from the second nozzle 842. For example, the output concentration of the ozone module is adjusted by the user rotating the dial 850. Also located on the display 852 is a system status control 860, which can be operated to turn on (e.g., allow the first user interface to turn on the ozone module) and turn off (e.g., prevent the first user interface from turning on / off the ozone module) the ozone module. The system status control 860 can be a touch screen that allows the system state to change in response to user interaction.

[0101] In some embodiments, the control disc 848 is configured such that pressing the control disc 848 changes the system state. In some embodiments, the control disc 848 does not include an interactive touch display, but rather a rotary encoder configured to send a signal via rotation of the encoder (e.g., such as rotation of the dial 850) and depression of the control disc 848. This can be advantageous in preventing accidental adjustment of the control disc 848 due to splashing of water and other undesirable bumps and knocks of the touch screen. In some embodiments, the control disc 848 is positioned on a surface (e.g., a wall) away from the faucet system 400. In some embodiments, the control disc 848 is wireless and can be positioned away from the faucet system 400 and repositioned as desired.

[0102] Now back to Fig.16 , the control disc 848 is shown in an embodiment where the scrubbing module (e.g., scrubbing module 294) is fluidly coupled to the second fluid conduit 844 via fitting 849. The display 852 of the control disc 848 is updated in response to the scrubbing module 294 being coupled to the second fluid conduit 844 via fitting 849. The scrubbing module 294 sends a signal to the system controller 230 to update the display 852. The display 852 includes an adjustable scale 858, which now displays "concentration" instead of "PPM", as described above with respect to the ozone module. For example, if the module reservoir 286 is filled with dishwashing soap and the user is performing light cleaning, the adjustable scale 858 can be adjusted to a ratio of one part soap to 60 parts water (1:60). In some embodiments, the user can fill the module reservoir 286 with a more powerful cleaning solution (e.g., degreaser, decalcifier, chlorine bleach, and the like). The adjustable scale 858 can be set to make the discharge from the second spray head 842 more effective (e.g., 1:8 and higher). The scrubbing module 294 may include a module indicator 268 (e.g., a light) that indicates to the user that the water discharged from the scrubbing module 294 is not potable and / or is unsafe for prolonged skin contact. In some embodiments, the adjustable scale 858 is configured to adjust the scrubbing speed (e.g., oscillation speed, rotation speed, etc.) of the scrubbing device 288. The adjustable scale 858 may include labels (e.g., "low", "medium", and "high"), each corresponding to the speed of the actuator 290 of the scrubbing device 288. Both the concentration and speed can be adjusted by the user by turning the dial 850. The user can cycle through various adjustable features by tapping or double tapping the control disc 848. In some embodiments, rotation of the dial in a clockwise direction adjusts the adjustable scale 858, while rotation of the dial 850 in a counterclockwise direction cycles through various adjustable features (e.g., scrubbing speed and concentration).

[0103] It should be understood that various embodiments of the user interface controller 200 may be envisioned without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Although the user interface controller 200 is disclosed as a cylindrical control disc 848, it should be understood that the user interface controller 200 may be of almost any size and shape. In some embodiments, the user interface controller 200 does not include a display 852. In some embodiments, the user interface controller 200 is a remote control (e.g., an infrared remote control, an RF remote control, or a Bluetooth remote control) with buttons but no screen. In some embodiments, the user interface controller 200 is a tablet computer mounted to a wall or other surface and positioned to be engageable by a user.

[0104] Reference now Fig.17 , a water treatment system 504 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The water treatment system 504 is configured to receive a water flow, selectively treat the water flow, and provide the water flow to a fixture (e.g., fixture 102, fixture 202, first fixture 402, and second fixture 403). In some embodiments, the water treatment system 504 is configured to selectively provide a treated water flow to a sink faucet (e.g., a sink faucet in a kitchen, bathroom, laboratory, hand washing station, and the like). In some embodiments, the water treatment system 504 is configured to selectively provide a water flow to a bathroom fixture (e.g., a shower head, a shower sprayer, a toilet, a bidet, a foot washer, and the like). In some embodiments, the water treatment system 504 provides a water flow to a kitchen fixture (e.g., an ultrasonic cleaning machine, a sink sprayer, a dishwasher, and the like). In some embodiments, the water treatment system 504 provides a water flow to an appliance (e.g., a washing machine, a steamer, a carpet cleaner, a fire extinguishing system, and the like).

[0105] The water treatment system 504 includes a first valve assembly 506 configured to receive an unmixed water flow (e.g., from a hot supply line and a cold supply line 505). The first valve assembly 506 can be a digital valve configured to be controlled by a controller (e.g., a system controller 230, a handle control 116, a module interface 258, etc.) that is communicatively coupled to the first valve assembly 506. For example, the user interface controller 200 can be coupled to a fixture and communicatively coupled to the system controller 230, Figure 18-20The user interface controller 200 shown in FIG. 1 is a faucet controller (e.g., faucet controller 540, faucet controller 560, or faucet controller 570). The faucet controller is configured to send a signal to the system controller 230 in response to a user interaction with the faucet controller. The faucet controller can send a signal to the system controller 230 via a wired or wireless connection. The system controller 230 receives the signal from the faucet controller and operates the first valve assembly 506 to control the flow of water from the first valve assembly 506. The first valve assembly 506 can be operated to control the flow rate and temperature of the water flow. In some embodiments, the fixture does not include a valve (e.g., a mixing valve) so that no valve or valve assembly is positioned above the surface 101.

[0106] The water treatment system 504 further includes a second valve assembly 510 that is fluidly coupled to the first valve assembly 506 and positioned downstream of the first valve assembly 506. The second valve assembly 510 is configured to receive a flow of water through an inlet 512 of the second valve assembly 510 and provide a flow of water through at least one of a first outlet 514 and a second outlet 516 of the second valve assembly 510. The second valve assembly 510 is communicatively coupled to the system controller 230 such that user interaction with the user interface controller 200 controls the operation of the second valve assembly 510. For example, user interaction with the control disc 848 may configure the second valve assembly 510 such that all water received via the inlet 512 is discharged from the second valve assembly 510 via the first outlet 514 and water is prevented from flowing out of the second outlet 516. In some embodiments, user interaction with the control disc 848 may cause 20% of the inlet flow to flow out of the first outlet 514 and allow 80% of the inlet flow to flow out of the second outlet 516. In some embodiments, the second valve assembly 510 is a passive connector that does not include a valve or valve assembly.

[0107] The water treatment system 504 further includes a treatment device 525 configured to receive the flowing water from the second outlet 516 and selectively treat the water flowing through the treatment device 525. In some embodiments, the water flows rather than flowing through the treatment device 525, wherein the treatment device 525 is configured to provide treatment to the water flowing through the treatment device 525. In some embodiments, the treatment device 525 is configured to actuate in response to the water flowing through the treatment device 525. For example, the treatment device 525 may include a flow sensor 527 that measures the flow of water through the treatment device 525 and / or the temperature of the water flowing through the treatment device 525 and / or the flow rate of the water flowing through the treatment device 525. In some embodiments, the treatment device 525 is closed in response to receiving a signal from the system controller 230 that the faucet controller is in a closed position and / or the system controller 230 receives a close command from the faucet controller. When the faucet controller is operated to send an "open" signal to the system controller 230, the system controller 230 sends a signal to the first valve assembly 506 to open and allow water to flow through the first valve assembly 506 and thus flow through the fixture. At the same time as the system controller 230 sends the "open" signal to the first valve assembly 506, the system controller 230 sends a signal to the treatment device 525 to enter a "standby" mode, in which the flow sensor 527 detects the flow rate and temperature of the water flowing through the treatment device 525. In some embodiments, the treatment device 525 is configured to operate in response to the flow rate of the water and / or the temperature of the water. For example, in an embodiment where the treatment device 525 is an ozone generator, the treatment device 525 is activated when the water flowing through the treatment device 525 reaches a threshold temperature (100°F, 115°F, etc.). In some embodiments, the treatment device 525 is activated in response to the flow sensor 527 sensing a threshold flow rate (e.g., 0.5 gallons per minute, 1 gallon per minute, 1.5 gallons per minute, etc.). In some embodiments, the processing device 525 changes the fluid treatment in response to the flow rate. For example, in an embodiment where the processing device 525 is an electrolytic ozone generator, the processing device 525 can adjust the output voltage of the electrodes of the electrolytic ozone generator in response to a threshold flow rate detected by the flow sensor 527. For example, when the flow sensor 527 measures a flow rate of 1 gallon per minute, the output voltage of the processing device 525 may be less than the output voltage of the processing device 525 when the flow sensor 527 measures a flow rate of 2 gallons per minute. In some embodiments, the processing device 525 is configured to automatically adjust the output of parts per million in response to the measured flow rate. For example, if the user interface controller 200 is set to 3PPM, the processing device 525 may need to adjust the output (e.g., voltage output, concentrate output, etc.) based on the flow rate measured by the flow sensor 527.For example, when flow rates are lower, treatment device 525 may apply less treatment to the water flow (eg, lower voltage, less concentrate) in order to maintain a consistent concentration treatment at various flow rates.

[0108] In some embodiments, the flow sensor 527 measures the concentration of ozone in the water flow, and the output of the treatment device 525 is adjusted in response to the measurement of the concentration of the water flow. For example, during the useful life of the treatment device 525, the electrodes may be coated in an insoluble salt. When the electrodes are coated, the treatment device 525 may require a greater voltage output to deliver the desired concentration than was required early in the useful life of the treatment device 525. Thus, the flow sensor 527 may directly measure the concentration at the outlet of the treatment device 525 and automatically adjust the output voltage of the treatment device 525 to achieve the desired concentration received from the user interface controller 200 (e.g., control disc 848, faucet controller 540, 560, 570, etc.).

[0109] The water treatment system 504 further includes a T-shaped connector 520 configured to receive water flow from both the first outlet 514 of the second valve assembly 510 and from the treatment device 525. The T-shaped connector 520 is not capable of selectively preventing water flow through the T-shaped connector 520. In other words, the T-shaped connector 520 is a passive connector that cannot be controlled to selectively prevent water flow from entering or leaving the T-shaped connector 520. Although in Fig.17 In the figure, the T-connector 520 is shown as being located downstream of the second valve assembly 510, but in some embodiments, the T-connector 520 and the second valve assembly 510 can be switched so that the second valve assembly 610 is located downstream of the T-connector 520.

[0110] Reference now Fig.18According to an exemplary embodiment, the user interface controller 200 is shown as a faucet controller 540. The faucet controller 540 is coupled to a base (e.g., base 210) of a fixture (shown as fixture 502). The fixture 502 is similar to the fixture 202. Therefore, similar numbers are used to represent similar components between the fixture 502 and the fixture 202. The difference between the fixture 502 and the fixture 202 is that the fixture 502 does not include the handle control 116. The faucet controller 540 includes a controller indicator 542, a dial 544, and a toggle 546. The controller indicator 542 is similar to the fixture indicator 246 and includes a light (e.g., a color-changing light that changes based on the operating state of the water treatment system 504). The controller indicator 542 can have various modes, including flashing, breathing (slowly opening and closing), slow flashing and fast flashing, and flying (a plurality of discrete lights located below the diffuser, which chase each other circumferentially around the controller indicator 542). Controller indicator 542 may also change color based on the status of fixture 502 or water treatment system 504. In embodiments where water treatment system 504 is coupled to a faucet or spout, faucet controller 540 is communicatively coupled to system controller 230 but is not physically coupled to valves, as there may be no valves in fixture 502 or all valves of water treatment system 504 are positioned below the deck.

[0111] The dial 544 is configured to control the flow of water provided by the water treatment system 504 to the fixture 502. In some embodiments, the dial 544 is continuously rotatable such that the dial 544 can be continuously rotated in either rotational direction without stopping. In some embodiments, the dial 544 is rotationally limited such that the dial 544 can be operated between a first position (e.g., a lower limit, a closed position, etc.) and a second position (e.g., an upper limit, a maximum position), wherein the first position and the second position are separated by a predetermined amount of rotation. In some embodiments, the predetermined amount of rotation is less than 360° (less than one full rotation). In some embodiments, the predetermined amount of rotation is greater than 360° such that the dial 544 can be rotated multiple times before reaching an upper limit or a lower limit.

[0112] The dial 544 can be configured to change nearly any flow characteristic of the water flow provided by the water treatment system 504 and / or discharged by the fixture 502. In some embodiments, rotation of the dial 544 controls the temperature of the water, the flow rate of the water, the concentration of the treatment applied to the water, the duration of time the water is treated, the state of the treatment device 525 (e.g., on / off), the spray pattern provided by the fixture 502, and the like. In some embodiments, engagement with the faucet controller 540 controls the operation of one of the enhancement modules 222 coupled to the first fluid conduit 115 and / or the second fluid conduit 126, 844. In some embodiments, the dial 544 controls one or more of the foregoing features, wherein the feature controlled by the dial 544 is selected by a separate user input provided to the toggle 546 or a separate user interface controller (e.g., control disc 848). In some embodiments, for example, when the rotation of the dial 544 is limited, the dial 544 positioned in the first position can prevent water from flowing through both the water treatment system 504 and the fixture 502, wherein water is discharged from the fixture 502 in response to the dial 544 being transformed from the first position. In embodiments where the dial 544 turns the fixture 502 on and off (e.g., starts and stops the flow of water through the water treatment system 504 and the fixture 502), the dial 544 can control the temperature of the water, the flow rate of the water, the state of the treatment device 525, and any other features of the water treatment system 504. It will be appreciated that discrete control of the flow rate is not always necessary, as is the case with many showers, automatic faucets (often found in public restrooms), and many kitchen faucets. Therefore, the dial 544 can be used for a binary purpose, providing an "off" signal when in the first position, and providing an "on" signal simultaneously with another control signal (e.g., temperature, treatment concentration, etc.) when moved out of the first position.

[0113] The toggle 546 can be substantially circular and radially positioned within the dial 544. In other words, the faucet controller 540 defines a substantially annular shape, wherein the dial 544 is configured to rotate around the circumference of the faucet controller 540, and the toggle 546 is positioned near the middle of the faucet controller 540. The toggle 546 can include a plurality of control interfaces (e.g., buttons, sensors, switches, etc.), shown by way of example and not limitation as a first button 550, a second button 552, and a third button 554. The first button 550 is positioned near the center of the toggle 546 and near the central axis of the dial 544. The first button 550 can be a power button configured to start and stop the flow of water through the fixture 502 and / or turn on and off a treatment device (e.g., treatment devices 260, 410, 525).

[0114] Reference now Fig.19, the faucet controller 560 is shown as a base (e.g., base 210) coupled to a fixture (shown as fixture 502). The faucet controller 560 is similar to Fig.18 Therefore, similar numbers are used to represent similar components between the faucet controller 560 and the faucet controller 540. The difference between the faucet controller 540 and the faucet controller 560 is that the faucet controller 560 includes a handle control 116 instead of a dial 544.

[0115] The faucet controller 560 includes a controller indicator 542, a handle control 116, and a toggle 546. The controller indicator 542 includes a light (e.g., a color-changing light that changes based on the operating state of the water treatment system 504). The controller indicator 542 can have various modes, including blinking, breathing (slowly opening and closing), slow blinking and fast blinking, and flying (multiple lights located below the diffuser chase each other circumferentially around the controller indicator 542). The controller indicator 542 can also change color based on the state of the fixture 502 or the water treatment system 504. In embodiments where the water treatment system 504 is coupled to a faucet or spout, the faucet controller 560 is communicatively coupled to the system controller 230, but is not physically coupled to the valves because there may be no valves in the fixture 502 because all valves of the water treatment system 504 are located below the countertop. The controller indicator 542 extends circumferentially around the base 210 of the fixture 502 between the handle control 116 and the surface 101. In some embodiments, the controller indicator 542 is positioned between the faucet indicator 560 and the first spray head 214 .

[0116] The handle control 116 is configured to control the flow of water provided by the water treatment system 504 to the fixture 502. Coupled to the handle control 116 is a toggle 546. The toggle 546 can be substantially circular and radially positioned within a portion of the handle control 116. In some embodiments, the toggle 546 can move with the handle control 116. In some embodiments, the toggle 546 is fixed to the base 210 so that movement of the handle control 116 does not cause movement of the toggle 546. The toggle 546 can include a single control interface (e.g., a button, a sensor, a switch, etc.), shown as a first button 550 by way of example and not limitation. The first button 550 can be a power button that is configured to start and stop the flow of water through the fixture 502 and / or turn the treatment device on and off.

[0117] Reference now Fig. 20, the faucet controller 570 is shown as being coupled to a base (e.g., base 210) of the fixture 502. The faucet controller 570 is similar to the faucet controller 560. Therefore, similar numbers are used to represent similar components between the faucet controller 560 and the faucet controller 570. One difference between the faucet controller 560 and the faucet controller 570 is that the faucet controller 570 includes a control body interface 572 that is located on the control body 240 and is located away from the handle control 116. The control body interface 572 can be a push button or a capacitive sensor similar to any of the first button 550, the second button 552, and the third button 554. In some embodiments, user engagement of the control body interface 572 sends an instruction to the system controller 230 to activate the processing device (e.g., the processing device 260, the processing device 410, the processing device 525) when the system controller 230 receives a start command (e.g., from the handle control 116). For example, pressing and holding the control subject interface 572 for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., three seconds, five seconds, etc.) may send a signal with instructions to the system controller 230 to maintain the treatment device in a standby mode until water flow is initiated through the fixture 502, at which time the system controller 230 activates the treatment device. In some embodiments, the handle control 116 with the handle sensor 120 sends a start command to the system controller 230 when the handle sensor 120 detects that the handle control 116 has moved beyond the closed position. Moving the handle control 116 away from the closed position and back to the closed position may reset the control subject interface 572 so that the system controller 230 defaults to maintaining the treatment device in a standby or off state in response to receiving a start flow command (e.g., from the handle control 116 or the user interface controller 200).

[0118] The faucet controller 570 includes a controller indicator 542, a handle control 116, and a control body interface 572. The controller indicator 542 includes a light (e.g., a color-changing light that changes based on the operating state of the water treatment system 504). The controller indicator 542 can border the control body interface 572 (e.g., circumferentially surround the control body interface 572). The controller indicator 542 has various modes, including flashing, breathing (slowly opening and closing), slow flashing and fast flashing, and flying (multiple lights located below the diffuser chase each other circumferentially around the controller indicator 542). The controller indicator 542 can also change color based on the state of the fixture 502 or the water treatment system 504. In embodiments where the water treatment system 504 is coupled to a faucet or spout, the faucet controller 570 is communicatively coupled to the system controller 230, but is not physically coupled to the valve because there may be no valve in the fixture 502 because all valves of the water treatment system 504 are located below the countertop.

[0119] Reference now Fig.21 , a system controller 230 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The system controller 230 includes a processor 580, a memory 582, a network interface 584, and an input / output circuit 586. The system controller 230 as described can be included in any of the faucet systems (e.g., faucet systems 100, 300, 400), water treatment systems (e.g., water treatment systems 104, 304, 404, 504), fixtures (fixtures 102, 202, 302, 502, second fixtures 403), and enhancement modules 222 outlined above. The system controller 230 receives signals from the water treatment systems (e.g., water treatment systems 104, 304, 404, 504) and receives inputs from user interface controllers (e.g., module interface 258, user interface controller 200, faucet controllers 540, 560, 570, handle controls 116, etc.). In some embodiments, the system controller 230 receives signals from other water systems (e.g., fixtures, faucets, taps, shower heads, and the like). The system controller 230 may also receive input from various other user devices (e.g., cellular devices, personal computers, remote controls (RF remotes, IR remotes, Bluetooth remotes, etc.), voice assistants (e.g., Siri, Google Assistant, Alexa, etc.), IoT devices (Internet of Things (IoT) devices, Apple Home Pod, Amazon Echo device, Google Nest device, etc.), and the like. In some embodiments, the system controller 230 is communicatively coupled to the water treatment system via a wired connection.

[0120] System controller 230 can be communicatively coupled to the water treatment system and / or user interface controller via network 590. In some embodiments, network 590 includes the Internet. In other arrangements or combinations, network 590 can include a local area network and / or a wide area network. Operation of network 590 is facilitated by short-range and / or long-range communication technologies, such as, Transceiver, beacons, RFID transceivers, NFC transceivers, Wi-Fi transceivers, cellular transceivers, microwave transmitters, software defined radios, wired network connections (e.g., Ethernet), etc. Network 590 may be a packet-switched network, where Fig.16 One or more of the systems shown in the may exchange data using one or more communication protocols (eg, TCP, UDP, SCTP, ICPMv4, ICMPv6, etc.). Fig.16The various components of the environment include a network (communication) interface (eg, network interface 584). The communication interface may include various circuits (such as transceivers, interface engines, etc.) programmed to communicate via network 590.

[0121] Despite Fig.21 Although shown as a single, independent device in the embodiment of FIG. 2 , one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that in some embodiments, the system controller 230, the user interface controller, and the water treatment system may include virtualized systems and / or system resources. In some embodiments, the system controller 230 and the water treatment system may share physical storage, hardware, and other resources with each other and / or with other virtual machines.

[0122] The system controller 230 is shown to include a processor 580, a memory 582, and a network interface 584. The memory 582 can store machine-executable instructions that, when executed by the processor 580, cause the processor 580 to perform one or more of the computer operations. The processor 580 may include one or more microprocessors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), other forms of processing circuits, or combinations thereof. The memory 582 may include, but is not limited to, electronic, optical, magnetic, or any other storage or transmission device capable of providing program instructions to the processor 580. The memory 582 may include a storage device, such as a floppy disk, a CD-ROM, a DVD, a disk, a memory chip, a ROM, a RAM, an EEPROM, an EPROM, a flash memory, an optical medium, or any other suitable memory from which the processor 580 can read instructions and / or data. At least the processor 580 and the memory 582 may form a processing module. Additional circuits (such as components and circuits further described herein) may be included in the processing module.

[0123] The system controller 230 further includes an input / output circuit 586. The input / output circuit 586 is communicatively coupled to the processor 580, the memory 582, and the network interface 584. The input / output circuit 586 may include hardware and associated logic configured to enable the source water treatment system and the user interface controller to exchange information with the system controller 230. The input devices or components of the input / output circuit 586 allow the system controller 230 to receive signals and / or inputs, and may include, for example, a mechanical keyboard, a touch screen, a microphone, a camera, a fingerprint scanner, any user input device that can interface with the user interface controller and the water treatment system via a USB, a serial cable, an Ethernet cable, etc. In some embodiments, the user interface controller is communicatively coupled to the input / output circuit 586, and the user interface controller is configured to provide input to the system controller 230 and cause the controller to perform an action (e.g., control a device of the water treatment system or update the firmware of a device associated with the water treatment system). The output devices or components of the input / output circuitry 586 allow the system controller 230 to provide information to a separate computing device or screen (e.g., the display 852 of the control puck 848). In some embodiments, the output devices are different parts of the water treatment system (e.g., digital displays, speakers, LCD screens, illuminated icons, LEDs, and more).

[0124] The water treatment system includes a treatment device (e.g., treatment device 260, 410, 525) and a first valve assembly 506, which is communicatively coupled to the system controller 230 and is configured to send and receive inputs and signals. The flow sensor 527 is configured to measure the fluid flow through the treatment device 525 and send a signal to the system controller 230, which indicates one of the flow rate, temperature, and concentration of the water flow through the treatment device 525. In some embodiments, the flow sensor 527 is located upstream of the treatment device 525 and is configured to measure the water flow entering the treatment device 525. In some embodiments, the flow sensor 527 is positioned downstream of the treatment device 525 so that the flow sensor 527 can measure the treatment provided to the fluid flow (e.g., by measuring the concentration, acidity, pH, temperature, conductivity, and similar characteristics of the treated water flow).

[0125] The system controller 230 is configured to receive a plurality of inputs (e.g., control signals, control inputs, commands, etc.) from the user interface controller. User interaction with any of the dial 850, display 852 (e.g., touch screen), toggle 546, user interface controller 200, handle control 116, and module interface 258, as well as faucet controllers 540, 560, 570 may send inputs to the system controller 230 and cause the system controller 230 to send commands to the devices of the water treatment system. In some embodiments, when the water treatment system is in an off or standby state (e.g., when water is not flowing through the water treatment system), the operation of the treatment devices may be configured by the user via the user interface controller.

[0126] Reference now Fig. 22 , according to an example embodiment, is a method 600 for configuring and controlling a faucet system. At 602, the system controller 230 receives a first input from a user interface controller (e.g., the user interface controller 200). In some embodiments, the first input is an activation request for a treatment device. In some embodiments, the first input is an activation request to initiate water flow through the faucet system (e.g., the water treatment system and the fixture) while activating the treatment device.

[0127] At 604, system controller 230 configures control of the treatment device according to the first input. In some embodiments, the treatment device includes an onboard processor (e.g., a processor that communicates with system controller 230 via accessory 227), and system controller 230 configures the onboard processor and / or sends instructions to the onboard processor for operating the treatment device. In some embodiments, the treatment device does not include a local processor, and system controller 230 is configured to directly control the treatment device. For example, the first input may command system controller 230 to configure control of the treatment device so that the treatment device remains powered off in response to initiating water flow through the water treatment system (e.g., via interaction with a user interface controller). In some embodiments, the first input may command system controller 230 to configure control of the treatment device so that the treatment device is activated in response to initiating water flow through the faucet system.

[0128] At 606, the system controller 230 receives a second user input from the user interface controller. The second user input may be received from the same user interface controller that provided the first user input. In some embodiments, the second user input is received from a different user interface controller than the user interface controller that provided the second user input. The second user input may be a request to initiate water flow through the water treatment system and out of the fixture.

[0129] At 608, system controller 230 controls the water treatment system to provide water flow in response to the second user input. The second user input is a signal commanding system controller 230 to control the water treatment system to initiate water flow through the water treatment system and provide water flow to a fixture (e.g., a sink faucet, a sink showerhead, a shower head, and the like).

[0130] At 610, the system controller 230 controls (e.g., activates) the treatment device in response to receiving the second user input. In some embodiments, the system controller 230 controls the treatment device according to the first user input received by the system controller 230 before the second user input is received by the system controller 230. For example, if the first user input is a command to maintain the treatment device in a standby or off state, the system controller 230 will maintain the treatment device in an off or standby state in response to receiving the second user input. In other words, the interaction with the power button will initiate the flow of water through the water treatment system and out of the fixture, but the treatment device will be turned off so that the treatment device does not process the water flow. In some embodiments, for example, when the first input is a command to activate the treatment device, the system controller 230 maintains the treatment device in an off or standby state until the system controller 230 receives the second user input. In response to receiving the second user input, the system controller 230 activates the treatment device while the system controller 230 initiates the flow of water through and out of the water treatment system. In some embodiments, the first user input includes a time delay, and the system controller 230 initiates water flow through the faucet system after the time delay and before activating the treatment device.

[0131] In some embodiments, the first user input is a combination of commands received from a user interface controller (eg, user interface controller 200). Fig.15 and Fig.16As summarized, the user interface controller 200 can provide both state commands and control commands (e.g., concentration commands) to the system controller 230. For example, if the treatment device is an ozone generating device, the first input can include a state command and a concentration command, wherein the state command indicates to the system controller 230 whether to activate the treatment device in response to the second user input, and the concentration command indicates to the system controller 230 how to control the treatment device. In some embodiments, the first input further includes a delay, which is a predetermined non-zero time period (e.g., 1 second, 3 seconds, 5 seconds, etc.). If the first user input includes a delay, the system controller 230 can control the treatment device to activate in response to the second user input, but only after the delay. For example, in response to the second user input, the system controller 230 can start the water flow through the treatment device while the treatment device is powered off. After the delay, and before receiving a third user input to turn off the water flow, the system controller 230 activates the treatment device to treat the water flow. This may be advantageous in embodiments where dry (e.g., without any water) activation of the treatment device may damage or shorten the service life of the treatment device.

[0132] At 612, the system controller 230 deactivates the user interface controller that provided the first user input so that the configuration of the processing device 525 is not altered while water flows through and out of the faucet system.

[0133] Reference now Figures 23 to 31 , a faucet system 900 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The faucet system 900 is similar to the faucet system 400. Therefore, like numbers are used to represent like components between the faucet system 400 and the faucet system 900.

[0134] The faucet system 900 includes a first fixture 902, a second fixture 403, and a water treatment system (e.g., water treatment systems 104, 304, 404, 504). The first fixture 902 is similar to the fixture 102. Therefore, similar numbers are used to represent similar parts between the fixture 102 and the first fixture 902. One difference between the first fixture 902 and the fixture 102 is that the first fixture 902 does not include the second nozzle 124. In contrast, the faucet system 900 includes a second fixture 903 that can be retracted into the surface 101. The second fixture 903 is similar to the second fixture 403. Therefore, similar numbers are used to represent similar parts between the second fixture 403 and the second fixture 903. The second fixture 903 can be isolated from the first fixture 902 fluid so that two different water streams can be discharged from the first fixture 902 and the second fixture 903 at the same time. For example, a microbubble water stream can be discharged from the first fixture 902 while a steam stream is provided by the second fixture 903.

[0135] The water treatment system of the faucet system 900 is configured to receive a water flow, selectively treat the water flow, and provide the water flow to one or both of the first fixture 902 and the second fixture 903. For example, the water treatment system can discharge ozone water, filtered water, water with concentrate, water with bubbles, electrolyzed water, pH adjusted water, steam, heated water, and the like.

[0136] The second fixture 903 includes a second spray head 942 and a second fluid conduit 844 extending between and fluidly coupling the second spray head 942 and the water treatment system. In some embodiments, an electrical conduit 846 extends along the length of the second fluid conduit 844 and communicatively couples the second spray head 942 to the system controller 230 of the faucet system 900. The electrical conduit 846 is configured to carry data signals, power, or both power and data signals.

[0137] The second nozzle 942 can be an enhancement module 222 that is configured to process a fluid received from a water treatment system. For example, the water treatment system may not include a treatment device, so that the enhancement module 222 performs the only treatment on the second water stream discharged from the second nozzle 942. In some embodiments, the enhancement device 222 and the treatment device of the water treatment system are both configured to process the second water stream. For example, the water treatment device treatment device can ozonate the second water stream, and the enhancement module 222 can selectively discharge the concentrate into the second water stream. The second nozzle 942 can be removably connected to the second fluid conduit 844, so that the second nozzle 942 can be replaced by any of the enhancement modules 222 outlined above. The second fluid conduit 844 may include accessories configured to be coupled to the enhancement module 222 and the structure to provide power and / or data to the enhancement module 222 via the electrical conduit 846.

[0138] Reference now Fig.24 and Fig.25 , the second fixture 903 is shown as a steam wand 903. The steam wand 903 is similar to the steam module 128. Therefore, similar numbers are used to represent similar components between the steam wand 903 and the steam module 128. The steam wand includes a module interface 258, which is configured to send a signal to a water treatment system or one of a steam generator and a valve assembly positioned within the steam wand 903. When a user interacts with the module interface 258 (e.g., presses, touches, switches, etc.), steam is discharged from the second spray head 842.

[0139] The steam device is configured to receive a flow of water and output steam via an outlet 254. The steam wand 903 includes an insulating sheath 296 (e.g., one made of silicone) that surrounds the cylindrical body 256 and remains cool when the insulating sheath 296 is touched when the steam device is activated. The steam device can be communicatively coupled to the system controller 230 via an electrical conduit 846. In some embodiments, the steam wand 903 is fixedly coupled to the second fluid conduit 844 so that the steam wand 903 cannot be uncoupled from the second fluid conduit 844 without deforming the steam wand 903 or the second fluid conduit 844. The system controller 230 is configured to selectively activate or deactivate the steam wand 903 (e.g., a steam generator positioned within the steam wand 903) in response to user interaction with the faucet system 900 (e.g., a user interface controller 200, a module interface 258). In some embodiments, when the steam wand 903 is in a docking position, the system controller 230 prevents activation of the steam wand 903. In some embodiments, re-docking the steam wand 903 to the fixture positioned on the surface 101 automatically deactivates the steam wand 903. In some embodiments, the system controller 230 is configured to activate the steam wand 903 only when certain conditions of the faucet system 900 are met (e.g., after). For example, in order to activate the steam wand 903 using the module interface 258, the water flow should reach a certain temperature (e.g., 100°F). When the water reaches a predetermined temperature, the system controller 230 activates the module interface 258 and allows the user to activate the steam wand 903 after removing the steam wand 903 from the fixture positioned on the surface 101. In some embodiments, the system controller 230 automatically activates the steam wand 903 in response to meeting certain conditions. For example, when the water flow through the fixture 903 reaches a predetermined temperature, the system controller 230 can activate the steam wand 903 and turn on the module indicator 268 to signal the user that the steam wand 903 is ready for use. The scrubbing device 288 coupled to the steam wand 903 may include a heat resistant brush 122 having stiff bristles.

[0140] The module interface 258 of the steam wand 903 includes a first button 950 and a second button 952. The first button 950 and the second button 952 can be push-buttons, capacitive buttons and similar sensors. The first button 950 behaves as a toggle switch, wherein a first interaction with the first button 950 starts the steam flow from the steam wand 903, and a second interaction with the first button 950 stops the steam flow from the steam wand 903. Positioned near the center of the first button 950 is the module indicator 268. The second button 952 abuts the first button 950, and the second button 952 is a push-button. In other words, the second button 952 is configured so that the second button 952 must be pressed in order to start the steam flow from the steam wand 903. When the second button 952 is raised (e.g., not pressed), the second button 952 sends a signal to the system controller 230 to stop the steam flow from the steam wand 903.

[0141] The faucet system 900 further includes a user interface controller 200, which is configured to provide a signal to a system controller 230 of the faucet system 900. The user interface controller 200 allows a user to control the output of the first fixture 902 and the steam wand 903. For example, where the enhancement module 222 is an ozone module (e.g., ozone module 250), the user interface controller 200 can set an ozone state (e.g., "on" or "off") and an ozone setting, (e.g., a desired ozone concentration in parts per million (PPM)). When the ozone state is set to "on", activation of the module interface 258 simultaneously activates the ozone module and starts water flow through the faucet system 400. In some embodiments, when the ozone state is set to "on", engagement with the module interface 258 causes water flow through the second fixture 403. After a predetermined non-zero time delay (e.g., 1 second, 3 seconds, etc.), the system controller 230 activates the ozone module to treat the water flow through the second spray head 842. The above configuration may be desirable in situations where activating the enhancement module 222 without water may damage the enhancement module 222. In some embodiments, the steam wand 903 includes a module indicator 268 that visually indicates the status of the steam generator to the user. For example, a yellow light may be displayed to indicate that the steam wand 903 is in a standby mode, such that an activation signal (e.g., a signal from the handle control 116 that initiates water flow through the steam wand 903) causes activation of the steam generator and causes steam to flow out of the steam wand 903. In some embodiments, a green light may be displayed to indicate that the steam wand 903 is in a non-treatment mode, or that the steam wand 903 is discharging water (e.g., non-steam).

[0142] The user interface controller 200 may be further configured to control various other enhancement modules 222 coupled to the first fixture 902. For example, the enhancement module 222 may be a scrubbing module (e.g., scrubbing module 294) that includes a module reservoir (e.g., module reservoir 286) and a scrubbing device (e.g., scrubbing device 288). When the scrubbing module is coupled to the accessory 227 of the first fixture 902, the scrubbing module may send a signal to the system controller 230 that the scrubbing module has been coupled to the first fluid conduit 115. After the controller receives the signal from the scrubbing module that the scrubbing module has been coupled to the first fixture 902, the user interface controller 200 may be updated to provide controls for operating the scrubbing module. In some embodiments, the user interface controller 200 may include a touch screen (e.g., a touch display) that is updated in response to detecting which module is coupled to the first fixture 902. As described above, any of the steam module 128 , the ozone module 250 , the bubble module 280 , the concentrate module 284 , and the scrubbing module 294 may send a signal to the user interface controller 200 to update the display 852 .

[0143] Reference now Fig.26 , a fitting 905 of the first fluid conduit 115 is shown. The fitting 905 is configured for coupling to fluidically couple and communicatively couple with the enhancement module 222. The fitting 905 includes a sleeve 906 extending circumferentially around the end of the first fluid conduit 115. The sleeve 906 can be formed of a metal or polymer material. Extending radially from the sleeve 906 is a tab 908 configured to be positioned within a slot of the first fixture 902 when the first fluid conduit 115 is in a retracted position. The tab 908 prevents the fitting 905 from rotating within the neck 112 of the first fixture 902 when the first fluid conduit 115 is in a fully retracted position. The fitting 905 further includes a pair of electrodes 910 configured to communicatively couple the enhancement module 222 with the system controller 230. The pair of electrodes 910 are terminal ends of the first electrical conduit 117 extending the length of the first fluid conduit 115. In some embodiments, the pair of electrodes 910 only provide power, so that the pair of electrodes 910 are respectively positive and negative voltages. In some embodiments, the pair of electrodes 910 transmits data signals to the enhancement module 222. For example, the enhancement module 222 may include a battery pack and may receive instructions from the system controller 230 via the pair of electrodes 910. The pair of electrodes 910 may be pogo pins, magnetic pins, etc.

[0144] Reference now Fig. 27, the enhancement module 222 is shown coupled to the accessory 905. The enhancement module 222 can be removably coupled to the accessory 905 using a quarter-turn bayonet-style coupler (shown as coupling member 915). The coupling member 915 includes a pair of wings 917 that slide into an internal slot of the accessory 905. To remove the enhancement module 222 from the accessory 905, the enhancement module 222 is rotated a quarter turn counterclockwise and pulled axially from the accessory 905. In some embodiments, the enhancement module 222 includes a stopper configured to provide tactile feedback when the enhancement module 222 is properly coupled to the accessory 905, aligning the pair of electrodes 910 with a corresponding pair of electrodes on the enhancement module 222. In some embodiments, the pair of electrodes on the enhancement module 222 are pogo pins.

[0145] Reference now Fig.28 , the enhancement module 222 is shown coupled to the fitting 905 and the first fluid conduit 115 is shown in an extended position. The first electrical conduit 117 extends along the first fluid conduit 115 and communicatively couples the enhancement module 222 to the system controller 230.

[0146] Reference now Fig.29, enhancement module 222 is shown as scrubbing module 994. Scrubbing module 994 is similar to scrubbing module 294. Therefore, similar numbers are used to represent similar components between scrubbing module 294 and scrubbing module 994. One difference between scrubbing module 294 and scrubbing module 994 is that scrubbing module 994 includes silicone scrubbing brush 996. In some embodiments, it may be desirable to scrub the surface while dispensing the treated water flow. For example, a treatment device (e.g., treatment device 260) positioned within scrubbing module 994 can be configured to form bubbles in the water flow to assist the scrubbing of silicone scrubbing brush 996. In some embodiments, brush 996 is removable and replaceable. For example, brush 996 may be damaged or worn due to scrubbing rough surfaces (including cast iron, ovens and grates, oven racks, and the like). A user can have multiple brushes, each with different brush stiffness and length. As can be appreciated, for cleaning purposes, a number of accessories can be operably coupled to the scrubbing module 994 (e.g., sponges, scrubbing pads, steel wool, wire brushes, etc.). The scrubbing module 994 further includes an actuator 290. In some embodiments, a silicone scrubbing brush 996 is operably coupled to the actuator 290, and the actuator 290 scrubbing device is configured to oscillate and / or rotate the brush 996 to provide an improved scrubbing experience. In some embodiments, the scrubbing module 994 receives power via the accessory 905. In some embodiments, the brush 996 is coupled to the enhancement module 222 and is not configured to move independently of the enhancement module 222. In some embodiments, the scrubbing module 994 includes additional treatment devices (e.g., bubble generators, ozone generators, and similar treatment devices).

[0147] Reference now Fig.30 , the scrubbing module 994 is shown having a replaceable circular brush 997 operably coupled to the actuator 290. Fig.31 As shown, the scrubbing module 994 includes a bottle brush 1000. The bottle brush 1000 includes a central tube 1002 that is in fluid communication with the first fluid conduit 115 when the bottle brush 1000 is coupled to the scrubbing module 994. The central tube 1002 includes a plurality of holes 1004 that extend radially from the central tube 1002 and are configured to radially discharge water from the central tube 1002. The bottle brush 1000 further includes bristles 1006 that are coupled to and extend radially from the central tube 1002. The bristles 1006 are positioned in a spiral along the length of the central tube 1002. When the bottle brush 1000 is coupled to the scrubbing module 994, the actuator 290 is operably coupled to the bottle brush 1000 and is configured to rotate the bottle brush 1000 for cleaning purposes.

[0148] Scrub module 994 is similar to scrub module 294. Therefore, similar numbers are used to represent similar parts between scrub module 294 and scrub module 994. One difference between scrub module 294 and scrub module 994 is that scrub module 994 includes silicone scrub brush 996. In some embodiments, it may be desirable to scrub the surface while dispensing the treated water stream. For example, a treatment device (e.g., treatment device 260) positioned within scrub module 994 may be configured to form bubbles in the water stream to assist the scrubbing of silicone scrub brush 996. In some embodiments, brush 996 is removable and replaceable. For example, brush 996 may be damaged or worn due to scrubbing rough surfaces (including cast iron, ovens and grates, oven racks, and the like). A user may have multiple brushes, each with different brush stiffness and length. As can be appreciated, for cleaning purposes, a number of accessories can be operably coupled to the scrubbing module 994 (e.g., sponges, scrubbing pads, steel wool, wire brushes, etc.). The scrubbing module 994 further includes an actuator 290. In some embodiments, a silicone scrubbing brush 996 is operably coupled to the actuator 290, and the actuator 290 scrubbing device is configured to oscillate and / or rotate the brush 996 to provide an improved scrubbing experience. In some embodiments, the scrubbing module 994 receives power via the accessory 905. In some embodiments, the brush 996 is coupled to the enhancement module 222 and is not configured to move independently of the enhancement module 222. In some embodiments, the scrubbing module 994 includes additional treatment devices (e.g., bubble generators, ozone generators, and similar treatment devices).

[0149] Reference Fig.32 , a flow chart of a water treatment system 704 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The water treatment system 704 is similar to Fig.17 504. Thus, similar numbers are used to represent similar components between water treatment system 704 and water treatment system 504. Water treatment system 704 is configured for positioning under a countertop in a kitchen environment (e.g., in a Figure 1 , 13 , 14 and 23 below the surface 101).

[0150] The water treatment system 704 is configured to receive a water stream, selectively treat the water stream, and provide the water stream to a fixture (e.g., fixture 102, fixture 202, first fixture 402, second fixture 403, etc.). In some embodiments, the water treatment system 704 is configured to provide the water stream to both a first fixture (e.g., first fixture 402) and a second fixture (e.g., second fixture 403). For example, the water treatment system 704 may be configured to provide only a treated water stream to the second fixture 403, without providing an untreated water stream to the second fixture 403, and the water treatment system 704 may be configured to provide only an untreated water stream to the first fixture 402, without providing a treated water stream to the first fixture 402. This may be done to separate potable water from non-potable water (e.g., when the treated water stream now exclusively provided to the second fixture 403 is not suitable for drinking). In some embodiments, the water treatment system 704 is configured to selectively provide treated water to sink faucets (e.g., sink faucets in kitchens, bathrooms, laboratories, hand washing stations, and the like). In some embodiments, the water treatment system 704 is configured to selectively provide water to bathroom fixtures (e.g., shower heads, shower sprayers, toilets, bidets, foot washers, and the like). In some embodiments, the water treatment system 704 provides water to kitchen fixtures (e.g., ultrasonic cleaners, sink sprayers, dishwashers, and the like). In some embodiments, the water treatment system 704 provides water to appliances (e.g., washing machines, steamers, carpet cleaners, fire extinguishing systems, and the like).

[0151] The water treatment system 704 includes a first valve assembly (shown as a mixing valve 118) configured to receive an unmixed water flow (e.g., from a hot supply line and a cold supply line 505). The mixing valve 118 can be a digital valve or a manual valve configured to be controlled by a controller (e.g., a system controller 230, a handle control 116, a module interface 258, etc.) communicatively coupled to the mixing valve 118.

[0152] The water treatment system 704 further includes a second valve assembly (shown as a solenoid diverter 708) that is fluidly coupled to the mixing valve 118 and positioned downstream of the mixing valve 118. The solenoid diverter 708 is configured to receive a flow of water through an inlet 712 of the solenoid diverter 708 and provide a flow of water through at least one of a first outlet 714 and a second outlet 716 of the solenoid diverter 708. The solenoid diverter 708 is communicatively coupled to the system controller 230 so that user interaction with the controller (e.g., the user interface controller 200) controls the operation of the solenoid diverter 708. For example, user interaction with the control disc 848 can configure the solenoid diverter 708 so that all water received via the inlet 712 is discharged from the solenoid diverter 708 via the first outlet 714 and water is prevented from flowing out of the second outlet 716. In some embodiments, user interaction with control disk 848 may cause 20% of the inlet flow to flow out first outlet 714 and allow 80% of the inlet flow to flow out second outlet 716. In some embodiments, solenoid diverter 708 is a passive connector that does not include a valve or valve assembly.

[0153] The water treatment system 704 further includes a treatment device (shown as a variable ozone generator 725) positioned downstream of the mixing valve 118 and downstream of the solenoid diverter 708. In some embodiments, the treatment device is the treatment device 525. The variable ozone generator 725 is configured to receive flowing water from the second outlet 716 and selectively treat the water flow through the variable ozone generator 725. In some embodiments, the variable ozone generator 725 is configured to actuate in response to the flow of water flowing through the variable ozone generator 725. For example, the variable ozone generator 725 may include a flow sensor 527 that measures the flow of water flowing through the variable ozone generator 725 and / or the temperature of the water flowing through the variable ozone generator 725 and / or the flow rate of the water flowing through the variable ozone generator 725. In some embodiments, the variable ozone generator 75 is turned off in response to receiving a signal from the system controller 230 that the faucet controller (e.g., handle control 116) is in the off position and / or the system controller 230 receives a close command from the faucet controller. When the faucet controller is operated to send an "on" signal to the system controller 230, the system controller 230 sends a signal to the solenoid diverter 708 to discharge 100% of the inlet water flow through the second outlet 716, through the variable ozone generator 725, and through the fixture 102. At the same time as the system controller 230 sends the "on" signal to the solenoid diverter 708, the system controller 230 sends a signal to the variable ozone generator 725 to enter a "standby" mode in which the flow sensor 527 detects the flow rate and temperature of the water flowing through the variable ozone generator 725. In some embodiments, the variable ozone generator 725 is configured to operate in response to the flow rate of the water and / or the temperature of the water. For example, the ozonation of water by the variable ozone generator 725 can be directly proportional to the temperature of the water detected by the flow sensor 527, and can be inversely proportional to the flow rate of water flowing through the variable ozone generator 725 and detected by the flow sensor 527. In some embodiments, the concentration of ozone generated by the variable ozone generator 725 is 0.1 parts per million (PPM). When the flow sensor 527 detects an optimal flow of water flowing through the variable ozone generator 725, the variable ozone generator 725 can be limited to ozonating the water up to a concentration of 0.5 PPM. In some embodiments, as outlined above, the user can manually adjust the variable ozone generator 725 using the user interface controller 200.

[0154] In some embodiments, the flow sensor 527 measures the concentration of ozone in the water flow, and adjusts the output of the variable ozone generator 725 in response to the measurement of the concentration of the water flow. For example, during the service life of the variable ozone generator 725, the electrodes may be coated with an insoluble salt. As the electrodes are coated, the variable ozone generator 725 may require a greater voltage output to deliver the desired concentration than the voltage output required early in the service life of the variable ozone generator 725. Therefore, the flow sensor 527 can directly measure the concentration outlet of the variable ozone generator 725 and automatically adjust the output voltage of the variable ozone generator 725 to achieve the desired concentration received from the user interface controller 200 (e.g., control disc 848, faucet controller 540, 560, 570, etc.).

[0155] In some embodiments, the water treatment system 704 includes a temperature sensor 730 positioned upstream of the solenoid diverter 708 and downstream of the mixing valve 118. The temperature sensor 730 is configured to measure the temperature of water provided to the solenoid diverter 708 by the mixing valve 118, and the temperature sensor 730 sends the measurement to the system controller 230. The system controller 230 is configured to control the operation of the solenoid diverter 708 and the variable ozone generator 725 in response to receiving the temperature measurement from the temperature sensor 730. For example, if the temperature measured by the temperature sensor 730 is below a threshold temperature, the system controller 230 may prevent the solenoid diverter 708 from providing water flow via the second outlet 716, and thus prevent water flow through the variable ozone generator 725. In some embodiments, the system controller 230 further operates the user interface controller 200 to prevent the operation of the solenoid diverter 708 (e.g., by disabling an option on the control disc 848). It may be advantageous to provide a temperature sensor 730 upstream of the solenoid flow diverter 708 to prevent undesirable water flow (eg, too hot, too cold) from flowing through the variable ozone generator 725 before being measured by the flow sensor 527 .

[0156] In some embodiments, the water treatment system 704 includes a pressure sensor 732 positioned upstream of the solenoid diverter 708 and downstream of the mixing valve 118. The pressure sensor 732 is configured to measure the pressure of water flowing through the conduit between the mixing valve 118 and the solenoid diverter 708, and the pressure sensor 732 sends the measurement to the system controller 230. The system controller 230 is configured to control the operation of the solenoid diverter 708 and the variable ozone generator 725 in response to receiving the pressure measurement from the pressure sensor 732. For example, if the pressure measured by the pressure sensor 732 is below a threshold pressure, the system controller 230 can prevent the solenoid diverter 708 from providing water flow through the second outlet 716, and thus prevent water flow through the variable ozone generator 725. For example, in embodiments where the variable ozone generator 725 relies on water pressure to power the corona discharge required for ozone water, the solenoid diverter 708 may determine that the water pressure provided by the mixing valve 118 is too low to power the variable ozone generator 725, and thus prevent water flow to the variable ozone generator 725. In some embodiments, the system controller 230 further operates the user interface controller 200 to prevent operation of the solenoid diverter 708 (e.g., by disabling an option on the control disk 848 (e.g., graying out a word, preventing rotation of the dial 850, etc.)). It may be advantageous to provide a pressure sensor 732 upstream of the solenoid diverter 708 to prevent undesirable water flow (e.g., too high pressure, too low pressure) from flowing through the variable ozone generator 725 before being measured by the flow sensor 527. In some embodiments, the pressure sensor 732 is configured to measure leaks within the water treatment system 704 (e.g., leaks between the mixing valve 118 and the solenoid diverter 708).

[0157] In some embodiments, the water treatment system 704 further includes a flow sensor 734 positioned upstream of the solenoid diverter 708 and downstream of the mixing valve 118. The flow sensor 734 is configured to measure the flow rate (e.g., gallons per minute, etc.) of water flowing through the conduit between the mixing valve 118 and the solenoid diverter 708, and the flow sensor 734 sends the measurement to the system controller 230. The system controller 230 is configured to control the operation of the solenoid diverter 708 and the variable ozone generator 725 in response to receiving the flow rate measurement from the pressure sensor 732. For example, if the flow rate measured by the flow sensor 734 is below a threshold flow rate, the system controller 230 can prevent the solenoid diverter 708 from providing water flow via the second outlet 716, and thus prevent water flow through the variable ozone generator 725. For example, in embodiments where the flow rate is too high to safely ozonate the water, the system controller 230 can prevent water flow to the variable ozone generator 725. In some embodiments, the system controller 230 further operates the user interface controller 200 to prevent operation of the solenoid diverter 708 (e.g., by disabling an option on the control disk 848 (e.g., graying out a word, preventing rotation of the dial 850, etc.)). It may be advantageous to provide a flow sensor 734 upstream of the solenoid diverter 708 to prevent undesirable water flow (e.g., too much water, too little water) from flowing through the variable ozone generator 725 before being measured by the onboard flow sensor 527.

[0158] Fluidically coupled to the solenoid diverter 708 are a first flow path 740 and a second flow path 742. The first flow path 740 receives water flow from the first outlet 714 and provides the water flow to the spray head of the first fixture 402. In some embodiments, the first flow path 740 is a pull-down hose (e.g., a retractable hose) that extends through the neck 112 of the fixture 102. The second flow path 742 receives water flow from both the second outlet 716 and the variable ozone generator 725. The second flow path 742 is configured to provide water flow to one of the first fixture (e.g., the first fixture 102, the first fixture 402) or the second fixture (e.g., the second fixture 403). The second flow path 742 can be a pull-down hose (e.g., a retractable hose) that extends through the neck 112 of the fixture 102. In some embodiments, the second flow path 742 is a retractable hose that provides water flow to a side shower retracted into an opening in the surface 101 (e.g., the second fixture 403). In some embodiments, both the first flow path 740 and the second flow path 742 provide water flow to the spray head 114 of the first fixture 402, and both the first flow path 740 and the second flow path 742 are fluidly isolated from each other so that the flow path between the untreated water provided via the first flow path and the treated water provided by the second flow path 742 is not contaminated. In some embodiments, the spray head 114 includes a first outlet fluidly coupled to the first flow path 740 and a second outlet fluidly coupled to the second flow path 742, wherein the first outlet and the second outlet are fluidly isolated from each other so that there is no mixing between the water flows provided by the first flow path 740 and the second flow path 742. In some embodiments, the first flow path 740 and the second flow path 742 are fluidly connected at a location downstream of the variable ozone generator 725 and upstream of the spray head 114. In some embodiments, the first flow path 740 and the second flow path 742 are in fluid communication at a location within the spray head 114. For example, both the first flow path 740 and the second flow path 742 can exit the spray head 114 via the same outlet. In some embodiments, the first flow path 740 and the second flow path 742 never mix, for example, when the first flow path 740 receives water flow from the solenoid diverter 708 and provides water flow to the first fixture 402 and the second flow path 742 receives water flow from the variable ozone generator 725 and provides water flow to the second fixture 403.

[0159] As used herein with respect to numerical ranges, the terms "approximately," "about," "substantially," and similar terms generally refer to + / - 10% of the disclosed value, unless otherwise specified. As used herein with respect to structural features (e.g., to describe shape, size, orientation, direction, relative position, etc.), the terms "approximately," "about," "substantially," and similar terms are intended to cover minor variations in structure that may result from, for example, manufacturing or assembly processes, and are intended to have a broad meaning consistent with the usual and generally accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the disclosed subject matter belongs. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted to indicate that insubstantial or insignificant modifications or changes to the described and claimed subject matter are considered to be within the scope of the disclosure as recited in the appended claims.

[0160] It should be noted that the term "exemplary" and variations thereof, used herein to describe various embodiments, are intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such terms are not intended to imply that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or extraordinary examples).

[0161] The term "connection" and its variants used herein refer to two components being directly or indirectly connected together. This connection can be fixed (e.g., permanent or fixed) or removable (e.g., removable or releasable). This connection can be achieved by directly connecting two components together, by using a separate intermediate member and any additional intermediate members that are connected to each other to achieve, or by using an intermediate member that is integrally formed with one of the two components as a single unit body to connect two components to achieve. If "connection" or its variants are modified by additional terms (e.g., direct connection), the general definition of "connection" provided above is modified by the ordinary language meaning of the additional terms (e.g., "direct connection" means that two components are connected without any separate intermediate member), resulting in a narrower definition than the general definition of "connection" provided above. This connection can be mechanical, electrical or fluid.

[0162] References to element positions herein (e.g., "top," "bottom," "above," "below") are only used to describe the orientation of the various elements in the figures. It should be noted that the orientation of the various elements may be different according to other exemplary embodiments, and such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0163] The hardware and data processing components for implementing the various methods, operations, schematic logic, logic blocks, modules and circuits related to the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented or executed by the following: a general-purpose single-chip or multi-chip processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination of the above functions designed to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor, or any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller or state machine. The processor can also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, a combination of one or more microprocessors and a DSP core, or any other such configuration. In some embodiments, specific processes and methods can be performed by circuits specific to a given function. A memory (e.g., a memory, a storage unit, a storage device) may include one or more devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, flash memory, hard disk storage) for storing data and / or computer code to complete or facilitate the various processes, layers and modules described in the present disclosure. The memory may be or include volatile memory or non-volatile memory, and may include a database component, an object code component, a script component, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described in the present disclosure. According to an exemplary embodiment, the memory is communicatively connected to the processor via a processing circuit and includes computer code for executing (e.g., by a processing circuit or a processor) one or more methods described herein.

[0164] The present disclosure contemplates methods, systems, and program products on any machine-readable medium for completing various operations. The embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented using existing computer processors, or by a dedicated computer processor for an appropriate system incorporated for this purpose or other purposes, or by a hard-wired system. Embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure include program products, which include machine-readable media for carrying or having machine-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such machine-readable media can be any available medium that can be accessed by a general or special-purpose computer or other machine with a processor. For example, such machine-readable media can include RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or other optical disk storage, disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store required program codes in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures, and can be accessed by a general or special-purpose computer or other machine with a processor. Combinations of the foregoing are also included within the scope of machine-readable media. Machine-executable instructions include instructions and data that, for example, enable a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or a special-purpose processing machine to perform a certain function or a group of functions.

[0165] Although the figures and description can illustrate the specific order of method steps, unless otherwise stated above, the order of these steps may be different from what is depicted and described. In addition, unless otherwise stated above, two or more steps may be performed simultaneously or partially simultaneously.

[0166] It is important to note that any element disclosed in one embodiment may be combined with or used in any other embodiment disclosed herein. Figures 9 to 13 The second fixing member 403 of the exemplary embodiment described in the embodiment may be incorporated into at least Figures 6 to 10 In any of the faucet systems 100, 300, 400 of the exemplary embodiments described in . Although only one example of an element in one embodiment is illustrated above as being incorporated or used in another embodiment, it should be understood that other elements in various embodiments may be incorporated or used in any other embodiment disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A faucet system, comprising: A water treatment system, the water treatment system comprising: a treatment device configured to selectively treat the water flow; and a system controller in communication with the processing device; a fixture fluidly coupled to the water treatment system and configured to receive a flow of water from the water treatment system; and A user interface controller communicatively coupled to the system controller and configured to: sending a first input to the system controller, the first input comprising instructions for operating the processing device; and sending a second input to the system controller, the second input causing: the initiation of water flow through the fixture, and The processing device operates according to the instructions of the first input. 2 . The faucet system of claim 1 , wherein the first input includes instructions to activate the processing device in response to receiving the second input. 3 . The faucet system of claim 1 , wherein the first input includes instructions to activate the processing device after a time delay in response to receiving the second input.

4. The faucet system according to claim 1, wherein: The treatment device includes a flow sensor in communication with the system controller and configured to detect water flow through the treatment device, and The system controller is configured to prevent activation of the treatment device if the flow sensor detects that no water is flowing through the treatment device.

5. The faucet system of claim 1, wherein the fixture is a faucet having a base, a neck, and a pull-out spray head.

6. The faucet system of claim 5, further comprising a handle control operably coupled to the base of the faucet and positionable between a first position and a second position, the handle control comprising a handle sensor in communication with the system controller, Wherein when the handle control moves out of the first position, the handle sensor sends the second input to the system controller.

7. The faucet system of claim 1, wherein the user interface controller comprises a first interface and a second interface, the first interface being configured to send the first input and the second interface being configured to send the second input.

8. The faucet system of claim 7, wherein both the first interface and the second interface are operably coupled to the fixture.

9. The faucet system of claim 7, wherein the first interface is positioned on a spout of the fixture and the second interface is positioned on a base of the fixture.

10. The faucet system of claim 7, wherein the first interface is a control disk and the second interface is a handle control operably coupled to the fixture.

11. The faucet system of claim 7, wherein the user interface controller is a control puck having both the first interface and the second interface.

12. A faucet system, comprising: Fixings, including: Gamepad controls; and a spray head having an outlet and configured to discharge a stream of water; a treatment device in fluid communication with the showerhead and configured to selectively output a treatment to the water stream; a user interface controller; and a system controller in communication with the handle control, the processing device, and the user interface controller; The system controller is configured to: receiving a first signal from the user interface controller; in response to receiving the first signal, determining whether to activate the processing device in response to receiving a second signal; receiving the second signal from the handle control; and In response to receiving the second signal, operating the faucet system to perform at least one of the following: discharging the untreated water stream from the fixture; activating the treatment device and discharging a treated water stream from the fixture; or Untreated water is discharged from the fixture during a first time interval, the treatment device is activated at the end of the first time interval, and treated water is discharged from the fixture during a second time interval.

13. The faucet system of claim 12, wherein the user interface control is positioned on the fixture.

14. The faucet system of claim 13, wherein the user interface controller is a modular interface, the modular interface being positioned on the spray head.

15. The faucet system of claim 12, wherein the user interface controller is a control puck that is separate from the fixture and in wireless communication with the system controller.

16. A faucet system, comprising: Fixings, including: a base configured for coupling to a mounting surface, and a neck coupled to the base; a hose extending through the neck and the base, the hose having a handle portion coupled to an end of the hose, and the hose configured to provide a flow of water to the handle portion; and An enhancement module is removably coupled to the handle portion, the enhancement module being configured to receive a flow of water from the hose and configured to selectively process the flow of water.

17. The faucet system of claim 16, wherein the enhancement module comprises a module interface configured to selectively control a processing mode of the enhancement module.

18. The faucet system of claim 16, further comprising an electrical conduit extending along the hose, wherein the handle portion is removably coupled to the enhancement module via a fitting, the fitting being configured to fluidly couple to the handle portion and the enhancement module, and the fitting being configured to electrically couple the enhancement module to a system controller.

19. The faucet system of claim 18, further comprising a user interface controller in communication with the system controller and configured to selectively provide instructions to the system controller for operating the enhancement module.

20. The faucet system of claim 19, wherein the user interface controller is in wireless communication with the system controller and the user interface controller is separate from the fixture.

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