Double-control faucet assembly with mixing box under table top

Abstract

A faucet assembly is provided, the faucet assembly comprising: a faucet body; a control mechanism; the invention relates to a faucet comprising a faucet body and a mixing box, the mixing box is configured to be located below a table top surface, the faucet body is configured to be mounted on the table top surface, and the mixing box comprises a first valve element, a second valve element and a manifold assembly. A central horizontal axis of the first spool and a central horizontal axis of the second spool are perpendicular to a central vertical axis of a manifold cover of the manifold assembly.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of PCT International Application No. PCT / CN2023 / 088887, filed on April 18, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates generally to fluid supply assemblies, and more particularly to faucet assemblies having an under-counter mixing tank. Background Technology

[0004] A typical faucet assembly comprises several components, including but not limited to the faucet body, faucet spout, faucet hose, one or more valves for controlling water flow, hot and cold water inlet pipes, and a mixing chamber for mixing hot and cold water. Conventional manual faucet assemblies require the user to mechanically control fluid flow via a physical touch-screen user interface. Conventional automatic faucet assemblies typically require the user to electronically control fluid flow by activating a proximity sensor.

[0005] In conventional faucet assemblies (both manual and automatic), the mixing chamber is typically located above the sink countertop and inside the faucet body. The mixing chamber may also be located within a manifold assembly with several openings. Hot and cold water inlet lines, the faucet hose, and one or more valves connect to these manifold openings. Water enters the manifold assembly from the inlet lines, mixes in the mixing chamber, and then exits through the faucet hose. The valves may include a valve core that controls the flow of water between the inlet lines, the mixing chamber, and / or the faucet hose. Summary of the Invention

[0006] A faucet assembly including an under-counter mixing tank is provided. The faucet assembly provided herein may include one or more valve cores having a central axis that extends horizontally through a valve stem relative to the upper surface of the sink countertop. The central axis of one or more valve cores may also extend perpendicularly to the central axis of a manifold cap of a manifold assembly, the central axis of which extends centrally through a top opening and a bottom opening of the manifold cap. In some embodiments, the central axes of a first valve core and a second valve core are identical.

[0007] Conventional faucet assemblies (such as the conventional manual and automatic faucets mentioned above) include a mixing chamber for mixing water of different temperatures. Typically, the mixing chamber is located above the sink countertop and inside the faucet body. Due to space constraints within the faucet body, the size and orientation of various internal components, such as the valve core, are limited. Therefore, water can only flow through a limited number of paths, determined by the size and orientation of the faucet components. This limits the complexity of faucet design.

[0008] Therefore, unlike the conventional faucet assemblies described above, the faucet assembly described herein includes an under-counter mixing chamber. By moving the mixing chamber from above the sink countertop and inside the faucet body to below the sink countertop and within a separate mixing chamber (as disclosed herein), more space is provided for the various components of the faucet. Consequently, there are fewer restrictions on the size and orientation of the individual components. The faucet assembly described herein includes a manifold assembly and two single-control valve cores, each having a central axis (through the valve stem) oriented horizontally relative to the upper surface of the sink countertop. (Note that a faucet assembly including two single-control valve cores may be referred to as a dual-control faucet assembly.) One valve core is for cold water, and one is for hot water. The central axis of each valve core also extends perpendicularly to the central axis of the manifold cap of the manifold assembly (extending centrally through the top and bottom openings of the manifold cap). The central axes of each of the two valve cores may be the same axis. Due to the space constraints of conventional faucet assemblies with mixing chambers located within the faucet body and / or above the countertop, the orientation of the valve cores relative to the manifold assembly (and the sink countertop) would not be possible. Therefore, due to the orientation of the valve core relative to the manifold assembly and sink countertop (as described in this article), water can flow along different paths, which would be impossible in conventional faucet assemblies.

[0009] In some embodiments, the under-counter mixing tank houses a manifold assembly with five openings, hot and cold water inlet pipes, an outlet adapter configured to connect to a faucet hose, two single-control valve cores, and any number of other components to support faucet operation. The two single-control valve cores control the flow of hot and cold water into the mixing chamber and are oriented horizontally relative to the sink countertop. Water enters the manifold assembly from the inlet pipes, flows through the valve cores, mixes in the mixing chamber, and then exits through the outlet adapter. In some embodiments described herein, the inlet pipes are linearly connected to the manifold assembly relative to the outlet adapter.

[0010] In some embodiments, a mixing assembly for a faucet assembly is provided, the mixing assembly including: a manifold; a first motor coupled to a first valve core; and a second motor coupled to a second valve core, wherein the mixing assembly is configured to be located below a countertop surface, the faucet assembly is configured to be mounted on the countertop surface, and the mixing assembly is configured to mix hot water received from a hot water source with cold water received from a cold water source, and to deliver the mixed water to the faucet assembly.

[0011] In some implementations, a first motor and a second motor are configured to communicate electronically with a faucet assembly, a first valve core is configured to receive hot water from a hot water source, a second valve core is configured to receive cold water from a cold water source, the first motor is configured to operate the first valve core to deliver hot water to a manifold, the second motor is configured to operate the second valve core to deliver cold water to a manifold assembly, and the manifold is configured to deliver mixed water to the faucet assembly.

[0012] In some embodiments, the manifold includes: a left-side opening configured to receive a first valve core; a right-side opening configured to receive a second valve core; one or more bottom openings configured to receive a first inlet pipe and a second inlet pipe; and an upper opening configured to receive an outlet pipe.

[0013] In some implementations, the central axis of one or more bottom openings is parallel to the central axis of the upper opening.

[0014] In some implementations, the manifold includes a mixing chamber.

[0015] In some implementations, the manifold includes a manifold base and a manifold cover, wherein the manifold cover includes a mixing chamber.

[0016] In some implementations, the manifold base and manifold cover consist of separate components connected together.

[0017] In some implementations, the manifold base and manifold cover are integrally formed components.

[0018] In some implementations, the manifold comprises engineered thermoplastics.

[0019] In some implementations, the central horizontal axis of the first valve core and the central horizontal axis of the second valve core are perpendicular to the central axis of the manifold cover.

[0020] In some implementations, the central horizontal axis of the first valve core and the central horizontal axis of the second valve core are the same.

[0021] In some implementations, the mixing component includes a controller configured to electronically communicate with the faucet handle of the faucet assembly, wherein, in manual mode, the controller is configured to receive electronic signals from the faucet handle, the controller is configured to instruct a first motor to operate a first valve core to open or close to adjust the amount of hot water delivered to the manifold, and the controller is configured to instruct a second motor to operate a second valve core to open or close to adjust the amount of cold water delivered to the manifold.

[0022] In some implementations, the faucet handle includes an electronic position sensor configured to communicate electronically with a controller, wherein the controller is configured to receive a handle position signal from the electronic position sensor and instruct a first motor and a second motor based on the handle position.

[0023] In some implementations, the mixing component includes a controller configured to communicate electronically with the sensor of the faucet assembly, wherein, in automatic mode, the controller is configured to receive electronic signals from the sensor, the controller is configured to instruct a first motor to operate a first valve core to open or close to adjust the amount of hot water delivered to the manifold, and the controller is configured to instruct a second motor to operate a second valve core to open or close to adjust the amount of cold water delivered to the manifold.

[0024] In some implementations, the sensor includes one or more of an infrared presence sensor, a capacitive sensor, a motion sensor, or a microphone.

[0025] In some implementations, the controller is associated with a manual temperature control, and in automatic mode, it delivers mixed water at a certain temperature according to the settings of the manual temperature control.

[0026] In some implementations, the manual temperature control includes a knob or dial located on the outer surface of the housing.

[0027] In some implementations, the hybrid component is configured to operate in manual mode, in automatic mode, or in both manual and automatic modes by operating the faucet handle of the faucet component, wherein the presence of the user is detected by a sensor of the faucet component.

[0028] In some implementations, the hybrid component is configured to operate in both manual and automatic modes, wherein automatic mode is disabled during manual mode operation.

[0029] In some implementations, the mixing component is located on the inner surface of the housing.

[0030] In some implementations, the controller is located on the inner surface of the housing.

[0031] In some implementations, the hybrid components include a power supply, wherein the controller, faucet handle, sensor, first motor, second motor, and power supply are configured for electronic communication.

[0032] In some implementations, the power supply, controller, faucet handle, sensor, first motor, and second motor are configured for wired electronic communication.

[0033] In some implementations, the controller is associated with one or more electrical ports, each configured to receive and couple to an electrical wire.

[0034] In some implementations, the housing includes one or more openings to receive one or more electrical ports.

[0035] In some implementations, a first motor is coupled to a first valve core via a first gear assembly, and a second motor is coupled to a second valve core via a second gear assembly.

[0036] In some embodiments, the first valve core includes a first valve stem, the second valve core includes a second valve stem, a first motor is configured to rotate the first valve stem to open and close the first valve core, and a second motor is configured to rotate the second valve stem to open and close the second valve core.

[0037] In some implementations, the first valve stem and the second valve stem are each configured to rotate a ceramic disc to open and close the first valve core and the second valve core, respectively.

[0038] In some implementations, a first motor is coupled to a first valve stem via a first gear assembly, and a second motor is coupled to a second valve stem via a second gear assembly.

[0039] In some embodiments, the first gear assembly includes a small bevel gear coupled to a first motor and a positive bevel gear meshing with the small bevel gear and coupled to a first valve stem, and the second gear assembly includes a small bevel gear coupled to a second motor and a positive bevel gear meshing with the small bevel gear and coupled to a second valve stem.

[0040] In some implementations, the first valve core and the second valve core are at least partially located in the manifold.

[0041] In some implementations, the hybrid component includes a flow sensor that communicates electronically with the controller.

[0042] In some embodiments, a first faucet assembly is provided, the first faucet assembly comprising: a faucet body; a faucet handle configured to control both the amount and temperature of water leaving the faucet body; and a mixing assembly, wherein the mixing assembly comprises: a manifold; a first motor coupled to a first valve core; and a second motor coupled to a second valve core, wherein the mixing assembly is configured to be located below a countertop surface, the faucet assembly is configured to be mounted on the countertop surface, and the mixing assembly is configured to mix hot water received from a hot water source with cold water received from a cold water source, and to deliver the mixed water to the faucet assembly.

[0043] In some implementations, a first motor and a second motor are configured to communicate electronically with a faucet assembly, a first valve core is configured to receive hot water from a hot water source, a second valve core is configured to receive cold water from a cold water source, the first motor is configured to operate the first valve core to deliver hot water to a manifold, the second motor is configured to operate the second valve core to deliver cold water to a manifold assembly, and the manifold is configured to deliver mixed water to the faucet assembly.

[0044] In some implementations, the central axis of one or more bottom openings is parallel to the central axis of the upper opening.

[0045] In some implementation schemes, the main body of the faucet is a kitchen faucet or an integrated faucet.

[0046] In some implementations, the faucet handle is a lever handle, a rotary handle, or a paddle handle.

[0047] In some implementations, the manifold includes a mixing chamber.

[0048] In some implementations, the manifold includes a manifold base and a manifold cover, wherein the manifold cover includes a mixing chamber.

[0049] In some implementations, the manifold base and manifold cover consist of separate components connected together.

[0050] In some implementations, the manifold base and manifold cover are integrally formed components.

[0051] In some implementations, the manifold comprises engineered thermoplastics.

[0052] In some implementations, the central horizontal axis of the first valve core and the central horizontal axis of the second valve core are perpendicular to the central axis of the manifold cover.

[0053] In some implementations, the central horizontal axis of the first valve core and the central horizontal axis of the second valve core are the same.

[0054] In some implementations, the first faucet assembly includes a controller configured to electronically communicate with the faucet handle of the faucet assembly, wherein, in manual mode, the controller is configured to receive electronic signals from the faucet handle, the controller is configured to instruct a first motor to operate a first valve core to open or close to adjust the amount of hot water delivered to the manifold, and the controller is configured to instruct a second motor to operate a second valve core to open or close to adjust the amount of cold water delivered to the manifold.

[0055] In some implementations, the faucet handle includes an electronic position sensor configured to communicate electronically with a controller, wherein the controller is configured to receive a handle position signal from the electronic position sensor and instruct a first motor and a second motor based on the handle position.

[0056] In some implementations, the first faucet assembly includes a controller configured to communicate electronically with sensors of the faucet assembly, wherein, in automatic mode, the controller is configured to receive electronic signals from the sensors, the controller is configured to instruct a first motor to operate a first valve core to open or close to adjust the amount of hot water delivered to the manifold, and the controller is configured to instruct a second motor to operate a second valve core to open or close to adjust the amount of cold water delivered to the manifold.

[0057] In some implementations, the sensor includes one or more of an infrared presence sensor, a capacitive sensor, a motion sensor, or a microphone.

[0058] In some implementations, the controller is associated with a manual temperature control, and in automatic mode, it delivers mixed water at a certain temperature according to the settings of the manual temperature control.

[0059] In some implementations, the manual temperature control includes a knob or dial located on the outer surface of the housing.

[0060] In some implementations, the first faucet assembly is configured to operate in manual mode or automatic mode by operating the faucet handle of the faucet assembly, wherein the presence of a user is detected by a sensor of the faucet assembly, or in both manual and automatic modes.

[0061] In some implementations, the first faucet assembly is configured to operate in both manual and automatic modes, wherein the automatic mode is disabled during manual mode operation.

[0062] In some implementations, the faucet handle is configured to remain in the handle position indicating the water temperature setting when the water flow is turned off or kept off in manual mode, or when the water flow is turned on or off in automatic mode.

[0063] In some implementations, in manual mode, when the user first touches, pushes, or clicks the faucet handle, a mixture of water at a certain temperature is delivered according to the water temperature setting on the faucet handle.

[0064] In some implementations, in manual mode, the delivery of mixed water is shut off when the user touches, pushes, or clicks the faucet handle a second time, while maintaining the temperature setting of the faucet handle.

[0065] In some implementations, in automatic mode, when the water flow is turned on and the presence of the user is detected by the sensor, mixed water of a certain temperature is delivered according to the water temperature setting on the faucet handle.

[0066] In some implementations, the controller is configured to determine a preferred water temperature based on the handle position setting and instruct one or both of the first and second motors to operate the corresponding valve core according to the determined water temperature.

[0067] In some implementations, the controller is configured to instruct one or both of the first and second motors based on a determined water temperature setting when the water flow is turned off or kept off.

[0068] In some implementations, the controller instructs one or both of the first and second motors based on a determined water temperature setting when the water flow is turned on.

[0069] In some implementations, the mixing component is located on the inner surface of the housing.

[0070] In some implementations, the controller is located on the inner surface of the housing.

[0071] In some implementations, the first faucet assembly includes a power source, wherein the controller, faucet handle, sensor, first motor, second motor, and power source are configured for electronic communication.

[0072] In some implementations, the power supply, controller, faucet handle, sensor, first motor, and second motor are configured for wired electronic communication.

[0073] In some implementations, the controller is associated with one or more electrical ports, each configured to receive and couple to an electrical wire.

[0074] In some implementations, the housing includes one or more openings to receive one or more electrical ports.

[0075] In some implementations, a first motor is coupled to a first valve core via a first gear assembly, and a second motor is coupled to a second valve core via a second gear assembly.

[0076] In some embodiments, the first valve core includes a first valve stem, the second valve core includes a second valve stem, a first motor is configured to rotate the first valve stem to open and close the first valve core, and a second motor is configured to rotate the second valve stem to open and close the second valve core.

[0077] In some implementations, the first valve stem and the second valve stem are each configured to rotate a ceramic disc to open and close the first valve core and the second valve core, respectively.

[0078] In some implementations, a first motor is coupled to a first valve stem via a first gear assembly, and a second motor is coupled to a second valve stem via a second gear assembly.

[0079] In some embodiments, the first gear assembly includes a small bevel gear coupled to a first motor and a positive bevel gear meshing with the small bevel gear and coupled to a first valve stem, and the second gear assembly includes a small bevel gear coupled to a second motor and a positive bevel gear meshing with the small bevel gear and coupled to a second valve stem.

[0080] In some implementations, the first valve core and the second valve core are at least partially located in the manifold.

[0081] In some implementations, the first faucet assembly includes a flow sensor that communicates electronically with the controller.

[0082] In some embodiments, a second faucet assembly is provided, the second faucet assembly comprising: a faucet body; a first faucet handle configured to control the amount of hot water leaving the faucet body; a second faucet handle configured to control the amount of cold water leaving the faucet body; and a mixing assembly, wherein the mixing assembly comprises: a manifold; a first motor coupled to a first valve core; and a second motor coupled to a second valve core, wherein the mixing assembly is configured to be located below a countertop surface, the faucet assembly is configured to be mounted on the countertop surface, and the mixing assembly is configured to mix hot water received from a hot water source with cold water received from a cold water source, and to deliver the mixed water to the faucet assembly.

[0083] In some implementations, a first motor and a second motor are configured to communicate electronically with a faucet assembly, a first valve core is configured to receive hot water from a hot water source, a second valve core is configured to receive cold water from a cold water source, the first motor is configured to operate the first valve core to deliver hot water to a manifold, the second motor is configured to operate the second valve core to deliver cold water to a manifold assembly, and the manifold is configured to deliver mixed water to the faucet assembly.

[0084] In some implementations, the central axis of one or more bottom openings is parallel to the central axis of the upper opening.

[0085] In some implementation schemes, the main body of the faucet is either a centrally located faucet or a split-type faucet.

[0086] In some implementations, the first faucet handle and the second faucet handle are lever handles, rotary handles, or paddle handles.

[0087] In some implementations, the manifold includes a mixing chamber.

[0088] In some implementations, the manifold includes a manifold base and a manifold cover, wherein the manifold cover includes a mixing chamber.

[0089] In some implementations, the manifold base and manifold cover consist of separate components connected together.

[0090] In some implementations, the manifold base and manifold cover are integrally formed components.

[0091] In some implementations, the manifold comprises engineered thermoplastics.

[0092] In some implementations, the central horizontal axis of the first valve core and the central horizontal axis of the second valve core are perpendicular to the central axis of the manifold cover.

[0093] In some implementations, the central horizontal axis of the first valve core and the central horizontal axis of the second valve core are the same.

[0094] In some embodiments, the second faucet assembly includes a controller configured to electronically communicate with a first faucet handle and a second faucet handle of the faucet assembly, wherein, in manual mode, the controller is configured to receive electronic signals from one or both of the first faucet handle or the second faucet handle, the controller is configured to instruct a first motor to operate a first valve core to open or close to adjust the amount of hot water delivered to the manifold, and the controller is configured to instruct a second motor to operate a second valve core to open or close to adjust the amount of cold water delivered to the manifold.

[0095] In some implementations, one or both of the first faucet handle or the second faucet handle include an electronic position sensor configured to communicate electronically with a controller, wherein the controller is configured to receive handle position signals from the electronic position sensor and instruct the first and second motors based on the handle position.

[0096] In some implementations, the second faucet assembly includes a controller configured to communicate electronically with a sensor of the faucet assembly, wherein, in automatic mode, the controller is configured to receive electronic signals from the sensor, the controller is configured to instruct a first motor to operate a first valve core to open or close to adjust the amount of hot water delivered to the manifold, and the controller is configured to instruct a second motor to operate a second valve core to open or close to adjust the amount of cold water delivered to the manifold.

[0097] In some implementations, the sensor includes one or more of an infrared presence sensor, a capacitive sensor, a motion sensor, or a microphone.

[0098] In some implementations, the controller is associated with a manual temperature control, and in automatic mode, mixed water at a certain temperature is delivered according to the settings of the manual temperature control.

[0099] In some implementations, the manual temperature control includes a knob or dial located on the outer surface of the housing.

[0100] In some implementations, the second faucet assembly is configured to operate in manual mode or in automatic mode by actuating one or both of the first or second faucet handle of the faucet assembly, wherein the presence of a user is detected by a sensor of the faucet assembly, or in both manual and automatic modes.

[0101] In some implementations, the second faucet assembly is configured to operate in both manual and automatic modes, wherein the automatic mode is disabled during manual mode operation.

[0102] In some implementations, the mixing component is located on the inner surface of the housing.

[0103] In some implementations, the controller is located on the inner surface of the housing.

[0104] In some implementations, the second faucet assembly includes a power source, wherein the controller, the first faucet handle, the second faucet handle, the sensor, the first motor, the second motor, and the power source are configured to communicate electronically.

[0105] In some implementations, the power supply, controller, first faucet handle, second faucet handle, sensor, first motor, and second motor are configured for wired electronic communication.

[0106] In some implementations, the controller is associated with one or more electrical ports, each configured to receive and couple to an electrical wire.

[0107] In some implementations, the housing includes one or more openings to receive one or more electrical ports.

[0108] In some implementations, a first motor is coupled to a first valve core via a first gear assembly, and a second motor is coupled to a second valve core via a second gear assembly.

[0109] In some embodiments, the first valve core includes a first valve stem, the second valve core includes a second valve stem, a first motor is configured to rotate the first valve stem to open and close the first valve core, and a second motor is configured to rotate the second valve stem to open and close the second valve core.

[0110] In some implementations, the first valve stem and the second valve stem are each configured to rotate a ceramic disc to open and close the first valve core and the second valve core, respectively.

[0111] In some implementations, a first motor is coupled to a first valve stem via a first gear assembly, and a second motor is coupled to a second valve stem via a second gear assembly.

[0112] In some embodiments, the first gear assembly includes a small bevel gear coupled to a first motor and a positive bevel gear meshing with the small bevel gear and coupled to a first valve stem, and the second gear assembly includes a small bevel gear coupled to a second motor and a positive bevel gear meshing with the small bevel gear and coupled to a second valve stem.

[0113] In some implementations, the first valve core and the second valve core are at least partially located in the manifold.

[0114] In some implementations, the second faucet assembly includes a flow sensor that communicates electronically with the controller. Attached Figure Description

[0115] The invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0116] Figure 1A A cross-sectional front view of an under-table mixing chamber according to some embodiments is shown;

[0117] Figure 1B An exploded isometric view of an under-table mixing chamber according to some embodiments is shown;

[0118] Figure 2 An exploded isometric view of a faucet assembly including an under-counter mixing tank and an integrated faucet, according to some embodiments, is shown.

[0119] Figure 3 An exploded isometric view of a faucet assembly, including an under-counter mixing tank and a separate faucet, is shown according to some embodiments; and

[0120] Figure 4 An exploded isometric view of a faucet assembly, including an under-counter mixing tank and a kitchen faucet, is shown according to some embodiments; and

[0121] Figure 5 An exploded isometric view of a faucet assembly including an under-counter mixing tank and a center water outlet faucet, according to some embodiments, is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0122] A faucet assembly including an under-counter mixing tank is provided. The faucet assembly provided herein may include one or more valve cores having a central axis that extends horizontally relative to the upper surface of the sink countertop and through a valve stem. The central axis of one or more valve cores may also extend parallel to the central axis of a manifold base, wherein the central axis of the manifold base extends centrally through a left and right opening of the manifold base. The manifold base may be part of a manifold assembly, which also includes a manifold cap. In some embodiments, the central axes of a first valve core and a second valve core are identical. In some embodiments, the central axes of the first valve core and / or the second valve core are identical to the central axis of the manifold base. In some embodiments, the central axes of the first valve core and / or the second valve core extend perpendicular to the central axis of the manifold cap of the manifold assembly, wherein the central axis of the manifold cap extends centrally through a top and bottom opening of the manifold cap.

[0123] As described above, a conventional faucet assembly includes a mixing chamber for mixing water of different temperatures (e.g., cold water from a cold water supply line and hot water from a hot water supply line). Typically, the mixing chamber is located above the sink countertop and inside the faucet body. Due to space constraints within the faucet body, the size and orientation of various internal components, such as the valve core, are limited. Therefore, water can only flow through the faucet assembly along a limited number of paths, determined by the size and orientation of the faucet components. This limits the complexity of faucet design.

[0124] In contrast, the faucet assembly described herein includes an under-counter mixing chamber. By moving the mixing chamber from above the sink countertop and inside the faucet body to below the sink countertop and inside a separate mixing chamber (as disclosed herein), more space is provided for the various components of the faucet. Consequently, there are fewer restrictions on the size and orientation of the individual components. The faucet assembly described herein includes a manifold assembly and two single-control valve cores, each having a central axis oriented horizontally relative to the upper surface of the sink countertop. One valve core is for cold water, and one valve core is for hot water. In some embodiments, the central axis of each valve core also extends perpendicular to the central axis of the manifold cap. In some embodiments, the central axis of each valve core extends parallel to the central axis of the manifold base. The central axes of each of the two valve cores can be the same axis. Due to the space constraints of conventional faucet assemblies with mixing chambers located within the faucet body and / or above the countertop, the orientation of the valve cores relative to the manifold assembly (and the sink countertop) would not be possible. Therefore, due to the orientation of the valve core relative to the manifold assembly and sink countertop (as described in this article), water can flow along different paths, which would be impossible in conventional faucet assemblies.

[0125] Figure 1AA cross-sectional front view of an under-counter mixing tank 100 according to some embodiments is shown. As shown, the under-counter mixing tank 100 includes a housing 102, a first stepper motor 104a and a second stepper motor 104b, a first pinion 106a and a second pinion 106b, a first spur gear 108a and a second spur gear 108b, a first valve core 110a and a second valve core 110b, a first inlet pipe 112, a second inlet pipe 114, a manifold assembly 116, a manifold cover 116a, a manifold base 116b, and an outlet adapter 118. In some embodiments, the under-counter mixing tank 100 may also include a power source, such as a battery. In some embodiments, the under-counter mixing tank 100 may include a manifold assembly 116 having at least five openings. In some embodiments, the first inlet pipe 112 and the second inlet pipe 114 may be attached to two separate openings on the bottom surface of the manifold base 116b, wherein the bottom surface is the surface furthest from the sink countertop. A first valve core 110a may be attached to an opening on the left side surface of the manifold base 116b, wherein the left side surface is the surface to the left of the central axis of the manifold assembly 116; similarly, a second valve core 110b may be attached to an opening on the right side surface of the manifold base 116b, wherein the right side surface is the surface to the right of the central axis of the manifold assembly 116. The central axis of the manifold assembly 116 may extend centrally through the top and bottom openings of the manifold assembly. In some embodiments, the central axis of the manifold assembly 116 may be the same as the central axis of the manifold cap 116a. An outlet adapter 118 may be attached to an opening on the top surface of the manifold cap 116a, the manifold cap itself being mounted to the top surface of the manifold base 116b, wherein the top surface is the surface closest to the sink countertop. The outlet adapter 118 may be configured to connect to a faucet hose. In some embodiments, fluid (e.g., water) from a fluid supply source can be configured to pass from a first inlet pipe 112 or a second inlet pipe 114 to a first valve core 110a or a second valve core 110b attached to a manifold base 116b, and then from the first valve core 110a or the second valve core 110b to the mixing chamber of the manifold cover 116a. The mixing tank 100 does not necessarily need to be located directly below the sink countertop. In some embodiments, the mixing tank 100 may be located in a separate cabinet or enclosure near the sink. Furthermore, the mixing tank 100 does not necessarily need to be oriented in a specific direction relative to the sink countertop. In some embodiments, the mixing tank 100 may be positioned at any angle relative to the sink countertop, as long as the inlet pipes 112 and 114 and any faucet hoses attached to the outlet adapter 118 can still be connected to the faucet assembly.

[0126] In some embodiments, housing 102 includes a housing that protects, encloses, and supports the various components of the mixing chamber 100 under the countertop. In some embodiments, housing 102 may include a housing cover and a housing base that, when assembled together, form a rigid shell, which may be rectangular and hollow. Alternatively, housing 102 may be any hollow shape, as long as it is spacious enough to enclose the various components of the mixing chamber 100 under the countertop. The material of housing 102 may be, for example, but not limited to, injection-molded thermoplastics, corrosion-resistant metals, etc. Engineering thermoplastics may include, for example, polyamides, polyesters, polycarbonates, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, polysulfone (PSU), polyethersulfone (PESU), cyclic olefin copolymers (COC), acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate (ASA), polyphenylene ether (PPO), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyphenylene sulfone (PPSU), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyethyleneimine (PEI), polyphthalamide (PPA), polyacetal, copolymers thereof, and blends thereof. In some embodiments, housing 102 may include at least three openings. In some embodiments, a first inlet conduit 112 and a second inlet conduit 114 may extend through two separate openings on the bottom surface of housing 102, where the bottom surface is the surface furthest from the sink countertop. An outlet adapter 118 may connect to a faucet hose that extends through an opening on the top surface of housing 102, where the top surface is the surface closest to the sink countertop. Alternatively, in some embodiments, housing 102 may include only two openings, such that one opening is on the bottom surface of housing 102 and the other opening is on the top surface. In such embodiments, the first inlet conduit 112 and the second inlet conduit 114 may be adjacent to each other, such that they can extend through the opening on the bottom surface of housing 102.

[0127] In some embodiments, the first stepper motor 104a and the second stepper motor 104b comprise two electric motors that drive the first pinion 106a and the second pinion 106b. The first stepper motor 104a and the second stepper motor 104b can be oriented such that the motor shafts point downwards, i.e., away from the sink countertop and parallel to the central axis of the manifold assembly 116. In some embodiments, the first stepper motor 104a and the second stepper motor 104b can be housed within a housing 102 such that the first stepper motor 104a is mounted on a support on the left side surface of the housing 102, wherein the left side surface is the surface to the left of the central axis of the manifold assembly 116. Similarly, the second stepper motor 104b can be mounted on a support on the right side surface of the housing 102, wherein the right side surface is the surface to the right of the central axis of the manifold assembly 116. In some embodiments, when the first stepper motor 104a and the second stepper motor 104b rotate, they cause the first pinion 106a and the second pinion 106b to rotate, which in turn causes the first spur gear 108a and the second spur gear 108b to rotate, which in turn causes the first valve spool 110a and the second valve spool 110b to rotate. In some embodiments, another type of electric motor (e.g., but not limited to, a DC motor) may replace one or both of the first stepper motor 104a and the second stepper motor 104b as the motor driving the first pinion 106a and the second pinion 106b.

[0128] In some embodiments, the first pinion 106a and the second pinion 106b include two bevel gears that mesh with the first spur gear 108a and the second spur gear 108b. In some embodiments, the first pinion 106a and the second pinion 106b can be connected to a first stepper motor 104a and a second stepper motor 104b, such that their rotation is driven by the first stepper motor 104a and the second stepper motor 104b. In such embodiments, the shafts of the first stepper motor 104a and the second stepper motor 104b can extend through holes on the central axes of the first pinion 106a and the second pinion 106b, thereby connecting the first stepper motor 104a and the second stepper motor 104b to the first pinion 106a and the second pinion 106b. In some embodiments, the first pinion 106a can be connected to the first stepper motor 104a and mesh with the first spur gear 108a; similarly, the second pinion 106b can be connected to the second stepper motor 104b and mesh with the second spur gear 108b. In some embodiments, the diameters of the first pinion 106a and the second pinion 106b may be equal to each other and smaller than the diameters of the first spur gear 108a and the second spur gear 108b. In such embodiments, the preferred size ratio of the first pinion 106a and the second pinion 106b to the first spur gear 108a and the second spur gear 108b may be a size ratio of 1:2. This size ratio may vary. In some embodiments, the ratio may be from 1:1 to 1:10. In some embodiments, the ratio may be less than or equal to 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, or 1:10. In some embodiments, the ratio may be greater than or equal to 1:10, 1:9, 1:8, 1:7, 1:6, 1:5, 1:4, 1:3, 1:2, or 1:1. The central axes of the first pinion 106a and the second pinion 106b can be parallel to each other and perpendicular to the central axes of the first spur gear 108a and the second spur gear 108b. In some embodiments, the valve stems of the first valve core 110a and the second valve core 110b can be directly driven by the first stepper motor 104a and the second stepper motor 104b without gears. However, embodiments with gears are more space-efficient than embodiments without gears.

[0129] In some embodiments, the first spur gear 108a and the second spur gear 108b include two bevel gears meshing with the first pinion 106a and the second pinion 106b. In some embodiments, the first spur gear 108a and the second spur gear 108b can be connected to the valve stems of the first valve core 110a and the second valve core 110b, such that the central axes of the first spur gear 108a and the second spur gear 108b are the same as the central axes of the first valve core 110a and the second valve core 110b. In such embodiments, the rotation of the first spur gear 108a and the second spur gear 108b drives the rotation of the first valve core 110a and the second valve core 110b. In some embodiments, the first spur gear 108a can be connected to the first valve core 110a and mesh with the first pinion 106a; similarly, the second spur gear 108b can be connected to the second valve core 110b and mesh with the second pinion 106b. In some embodiments, the diameters of the first spur gear 108a and the second spur gear 108b may be equal to each other and larger than the diameters of the first pinion 106a and the second pinion 106b. In such embodiments, a preferred size ratio of the first pinion 106a and the second pinion 106b to the first spur gear 108a and the second spur gear 108b may be a size ratio of 1:2. This size ratio may vary.

[0130] In some embodiments, the first valve core 110a and the second valve core 110b comprise two single-control valve cores that control the flow of water from the first inlet pipe 112 to the manifold assembly 116 or from the second inlet pipe 114 to the manifold assembly 116. A faucet assembly comprising two single-control valve cores (such as the first valve core 110a and the second valve core 110b) may be referred to as a dual-control faucet assembly. In some embodiments, when a command signal from the controller is received by one or both of the first stepper motor 104a and / or the second stepper motor 104b, they will begin to rotate in one direction or the other, thereby driving the first pinion 106a and / or the second pinion 106b and the first spur gear 108a and / or the second spur gear 108b, which in turn allows the first valve core 110a and / or the second valve core 110b to rotate by a specified amount. In some embodiments, the first valve core 110a and the second valve core 110b may each include a piston, ball valve, washer, or other mechanism for controlling the flow of water. In some embodiments, the first valve core 110a and the second valve core 110b may each include a valve stem extending along its central horizontal axis. As used herein, "flow through valve core" (and variations thereof) is defined as allowing water to flow through a valve core, such as the first valve core 110a and the second valve core 110b, when the valve stem rotates the ceramic disc to open a flow path. For example, in some embodiments, the first valve core 110a and the second valve core 110b may each include a ceramic disc configured to block or allow water flow depending on the rotation of the valve core. In such embodiments, the valve stem can rotate the ceramic disc to open a flow path, allowing water to flow through the valve core, or to close a flow path, preventing water from flowing through the valve core. In such embodiments, opening and closing the flow path may include fully opening, fully closing, partially opening, or partially closing the flow path to adjust the amount of hot or cold water flowing through the valve core. In some embodiments, the valve stems of the first valve core 110a and the second valve core 110b can be connected to the first spur gear 108a and the second spur gear 108b, such that the central axes of the first valve core 110a and the second valve core 110b are the same as the central axes of the first spur gear 108a and the second spur gear 108b. In some embodiments, the first valve core 110a and the second valve core 110b can be attached to an opening on the manifold assembly 116, such that the first valve core 110a and the second valve core 110b can share the same central axis, which can be perpendicular to the central axis of the manifold assembly 116 (i.e., if the manifold assembly 116 is vertical, then the first valve core 110a and the second valve core 110b will be horizontal). In other words, the central horizontal axis of the first valve core 110a and the central horizontal axis of the second valve core 110b can be perpendicular to the central vertical axis of the manifold assembly 116. In such embodiments, the central horizontal axis of the first valve core 110a and the second valve core 110b can be parallel to the plane of the upper surface of the sink countertop.In some embodiments, a first valve core 110a may be embedded in a first threaded channel on the left side surface of the manifold assembly 116; similarly, a second valve core 110b may be embedded in a second threaded channel on the right side surface of the manifold assembly 116, the second threaded channel being opposite to the first threaded channel.

[0131] In some embodiments, the first inlet conduit 112 includes a hose, pipe, piping system, or adapter through which hot water flows into the manifold assembly 116. In some embodiments, the first inlet conduit 112 may have a circular cross-sectional shape. The material of the first inlet conduit 112 may be, for example, but not limited to, cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) or other plastics, rubber, metal, etc. The first inlet conduit 112 may be rigid, flexible, or a combination of both in different areas. In some embodiments, the first inlet conduit 112 may extend through an opening on the bottom surface of the housing 102, wherein the bottom surface is the surface furthest from the sink countertop. In such embodiments, the first inlet conduit 112 and the second inlet conduit 114 may extend through the same opening. In such embodiments, the first inlet conduit 112 may be attached to an opening on the bottom surface of the manifold assembly 116 and to the left of the central axis of the manifold assembly 116. The flow of hot water from the first inlet conduit 112 to the manifold assembly 116 may be regulated by a first valve core 110a. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the positions of the first inlet pipe 112 and the second inlet pipe 114 can be interchanged, such that the second inlet pipe 114 is located to the left of the first inlet pipe 112.

[0132] In some embodiments, the second inlet conduit 114 includes a hose, pipe, piping system, or adapter through which cold water flows into the manifold assembly 116. In some embodiments, the second inlet conduit 114 may have a circular cross-sectional shape. The material of the second inlet conduit 114 may be, for example, but not limited to, PEX or other plastics, rubber, metal, etc. The second inlet conduit 114 may be rigid, flexible, or a combination of both in different areas. In some embodiments, the second inlet conduit 114 may extend through an opening on the bottom surface of the housing 102, where the bottom surface is the surface furthest from the sink countertop. In such embodiments, the second inlet conduit 114 and the first inlet conduit 112 may extend through the same opening. In such embodiments, the second inlet conduit 114 may be attached to an opening on the bottom surface of the manifold assembly 116 and to the right of the central axis of the manifold assembly 116. The flow of cold water from the second inlet conduit 114 to the manifold assembly 116 may be regulated by a second valve core 110b. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the positions of the first inlet pipe 112 and the second inlet pipe 114 can be interchanged, such that the second inlet pipe 114 is located to the left of the first inlet pipe 112.

[0133] In some embodiments, manifold assembly 116 includes a manifold cap 116a and a manifold base 116b. In some embodiments, when the manifold cap 116a and the manifold base 116b are mounted and sealed together, the resulting manifold assembly 116 forms a rigid, waterproof shell containing a fluid flow path to guide hot water from a first inlet pipe 112 and cold water from a second inlet pipe 114 into a mixing chamber. The materials of manifold assembly 116, manifold cap 116a, and manifold base 116b can be, for example, but not limited to, combinations of injection-molded thermoplastics, corrosion-resistant metals, etc., as long as the materials are waterproof. In some embodiments, the manifold cap 116a and manifold base 116b can be integrally molded. In some embodiments, a watertight seal connects the bottom opening of the manifold cap 116a to the top opening of the manifold base 116b. In such embodiments, the watertight seal can be a rubber O-ring seal. In some embodiments, the water pressure within manifold assembly 116 can be approximately 60 psi.

[0134] In some embodiments, manifold cover 116a includes a hollow shell with a mixing chamber for mixing water of different temperatures. In some embodiments, manifold cover 116a may include two openings between the interior and exterior of the hollow shell: a bottom opening on the bottom surface and a top opening on the top surface, wherein all surface orientations are relative to the sink countertop (e.g., the top surface may be the surface closest to the sink countertop). In such embodiments, the size and shape of the bottom opening of manifold cover 116a may match the top opening of manifold base 116b, allowing the two components to be mounted together. In such embodiments, water of different temperatures may flow from manifold base 116b into the mixing chamber of manifold cover 116a, and then flow within the mixing chamber until the resulting water mixture has a uniform temperature. In some embodiments, outlet adapter 118 may connect to the top opening on the top surface of manifold cover 116a. In such embodiments, the water mixture may exit the mixing chamber of manifold cover 116a and then flow into outlet adapter 118.

[0135] In some embodiments, the manifold base 116b includes a hollow shell through which water of varying temperatures can flow. In some embodiments, the manifold base 116b may be housed within the housing 102 such that it is mounted to a support on the inner surface of the housing 102. In such embodiments, the manifold base 116b may include four through-holes not connected to the interior of the hollow shell. Pins, bolts, or other fastening mechanisms may extend through these four through-holes to secure the manifold base 116b to the housing 102. In some embodiments, the manifold base 116b may include five openings between the interior and exterior of the hollow shell: two bottom openings on the bottom surface, a left-side opening on the left-side surface, a right-side opening on the right-side surface, and a top opening on the top surface, wherein all surface orientations are relative to the sink countertop (e.g., the top surface may be the surface closest to the sink countertop). In some embodiments, a first inlet pipe 112 and a second inlet pipe 114 may be connected to the two bottom openings on the bottom surface of the manifold base 116b. In such embodiments, the central axes of the first inlet pipe 112 and the second inlet pipe 114 may be parallel to each other and also parallel to the central axis of the manifold assembly 116. In some embodiments, the first valve core 110a may be connected to the left opening, and the second valve core 110b may be connected to the right opening. In such embodiments, the first valve core 110a and the second valve core 110b may share the same central axis, which may be perpendicular to the central axis of the manifold assembly 116 (i.e., if the manifold assembly 116 is vertical, then the first valve core 110a and the second valve core 110b will be horizontal). Furthermore, in such embodiments, the left and right openings of the manifold base 116b may include threaded channels, such that the first valve core 110a and the second valve core 110b can be embedded in the threaded channels. In some embodiments, the manifold cap 116a may be connected to a top opening on the top surface of the manifold base 116b. In this type of implementation, water of different temperatures can enter the manifold base 116b from the first inlet pipe 112 and the second inlet pipe 114, flow through the first valve core 110a and the second valve core 110b, and then flow out to the manifold cover 116a, where water of different temperatures can be mixed.

[0136] In some embodiments, the outlet adapter 118 includes an adapter through which water flows from the manifold assembly 116 after mixing. In some embodiments, the outlet adapter 118 may have a circular cross-sectional shape. The material of the outlet adapter 118 may be, for example, but not limited to, PEX or other plastics, rubber, metal, etc. In some embodiments, the outlet adapter 118 may extend through an opening on the top surface of the housing 102, wherein the top surface is the surface closest to the sink countertop. In some embodiments, the outlet adapter 118 may be attached to an opening on the top surface of the manifold assembly 116. In such embodiments, water may enter the manifold assembly 116 through the first inlet pipe 112 and the second inlet pipe 114, mix in the mixing chamber of the manifold cover 116a, and then exit the manifold assembly 116 through the outlet adapter 118. In some embodiments, the outlet adapter 118 may be connected to a flexible faucet hose (such as... Figure 3 326 faucet hose Figure 4 426 faucet hose and / or Figure 5 The faucet hose 526 delivers water from the under-counter portion of the faucet assembly to the upper portion of the countertop. In some embodiments, the outlet adapter 118 may be a pagoda adapter configured to connect the manifold assembly 116 to the faucet hose.

[0137] Figure 1B An exploded isometric view of an under-counter mixing tank 100 according to some embodiments is shown. As shown, the under-counter mixing tank 100 includes a controller 101, a controller port 101a, a housing 102, a housing cover 102a, a housing base 102b, a housing opening 102c, a stepper motor 104, a pinion 106, a spur gear 108, a valve core 110, a valve stem 111a, a ceramic disc 111b, a first inlet pipe 112, a second inlet pipe 114, a manifold assembly 116, a manifold cover 116a, a manifold base 116b, a flow sensor 117, and an outlet adapter 118. In some embodiments, one or more of the battery, sensor, controller, and / or motor can communicate wirelessly with each other. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the above components can communicate via a wired connection.

[0138] In some embodiments, controller 101 includes a microcontroller, PCB, or other electronic components to control various features of the faucet assembly. Controller 101 can send and receive electronic signals and / or instructions to control the start and rotation of stepper motors 104a and 104b. In some embodiments, controller 101 can be electronically connected to a knob, dial, or other adjustable feature on housing 102 to preset water temperature or water volume in automatic mode. In such embodiments, in automatic mode, controller 101 can instruct stepper motors 104a and 104b to rotate to a specific position associated with a preset water temperature via instruction signals. In some embodiments, controller 101 can be configured to receive one or more electronic signals from flow sensor 117.

[0139] In some embodiments, the controller 101 may include a plurality of controller ports 101a configured to receive wired connections from other electrical components. For example, controller ports 101a may receive wired connections from one or more of a battery, sensor, and / or handle outside the under-counter mixing chamber 100. In some embodiments, controller ports 101a may be configured to align with a housing opening 102c such that when the controller 101 is secured inside the housing 102, controller ports 101a extend through the housing opening 102c and connect to wires from other electrical components outside the housing 102.

[0140] In some embodiments, housing 102 includes housing cover 102a and housing base 102b. In some embodiments, when housing cover 102a and housing base 102b are assembled together, the resulting housing 102 may be a rectangular and hollow rigid shell. The materials of housing 102, housing cover 102a, and housing base 102b may be, for example, but not limited to, combinations of injection-molded thermoplastics, corrosion-resistant metals, etc. In some embodiments, the inner surface of housing cover 102a may include protrusions aligned with holes on the inner surface of housing base 102b, thereby securing the two components together. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the inner surface of housing cover 102a may not include protrusions, and the two components may be secured together by other mechanisms. In some embodiments, one or both of housing cover 102a and housing base 102b may include openings for a first inlet conduit 112, a second inlet conduit 114, and / or an outlet adapter 118. In some embodiments, one or both of the housing cover 102a and housing base 102b may include features for mounting the stepper motor 104 and / or manifold assembly 116 to the inner surface of the housing 102. The housing 102 may have knobs, dials, or other adjustable features electronically connected to the controller 101 to preset the water temperature in automatic mode. (See, for example, [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 3(Temperature knob 303 is included.) In some embodiments, in automatic mode, controller 101 may instruct stepper motor 104 to rotate to a specific position associated with a preset water temperature. Housing 102 may also have knobs, dials, or other adjustable features to preset the water volume (i.e., flow rate) in automatic mode. In some embodiments, automatic mode may be configured to deliver water at a high or maximum flow rate.

[0141] In some embodiments, housing 102 may include a plurality of housing openings 102c configured to receive controller port 101a. In some embodiments, housing openings 102c may be configured to align with controller port 101a such that when controller 101 is secured inside housing 102, controller port 101a extends through housing openings 102c and wires connecting to other electrical components from outside housing 102. In some embodiments, housing openings 102c may include one or more openings configured to receive knobs, dials, or other adjustable features to preset water temperature and / or water volume. Figure 1B The housing 102 may include Figure 1A Any feature of the housing 102, and vice versa.

[0142] In some embodiments, the stepper motor 104 includes an electric motor that drives the pinion 106. The stepper motor 104 may include... Figure 1A Any feature of the first stepper motor 104a and / or the second stepper motor 104b, and vice versa.

[0143] In some embodiments, pinion 106 includes a bevel gear that meshes with spur gear 108. Pinion 106 may include Figure 1A Any feature of the first pinion 106a and / or the second pinion 106b, and vice versa.

[0144] In some embodiments, the spur gear 108 includes a bevel gear that meshes with the pinion 106. The spur gear 108 may include... Figure 1A Any feature of the first spur gear 108a and / or the second spur gear 108b, and vice versa.

[0145] In some embodiments, valve spool 110 includes a single-control valve spool that controls the flow of water from the first inlet pipe 112 to the manifold assembly 116. In some embodiments, valve spool 110 may instead control the flow of water from the second inlet pipe 114 to the manifold assembly 116. Valve spool 110 may include Figure 1A Any feature of the first valve core 110a and / or the second valve core 110b, and vice versa.

[0146] In some embodiments, valve stem 111a includes a rod-shaped valve stem inside valve core 110, which rotates about its central axis in its longest dimension. In some embodiments, valve stem 111a can rotate ceramic disc 111b to open a flow path, allowing water to flow through valve core 110, or close a flow path, preventing water from flowing through valve core 110. In such embodiments, opening and closing the flow path can include fully opening, fully closing, partially opening, or partially closing the flow path to adjust the amount of hot or cold water flowing through valve core 110. In some embodiments, valve stem 111a can be connected to spur gear 108 such that the central axis of valve stem 111a is the same as the central axis of spur gear 108. Valve stem 111a may include Figure 1A Any features of the valve stems of valve cores 110a and 110b, and vice versa.

[0147] In some embodiments, the ceramic disc 111b includes two discs inside the valve core 110, a fixed disc and a movable disc, which allow or prevent water flow through the valve core 110. In some embodiments, the movable disc can be rotated such that an opening in the movable disc aligns with an opening in the fixed disc, thereby allowing water flow through the ceramic disc 111b and consequently through the valve core 110. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the movable disc can be rotated such that an opening in the movable disc is blocked by the fixed disc, thereby preventing water flow through the ceramic disc 111b and consequently through the valve core 110. In some embodiments, the ceramic disc 111b can be connected to the end of the valve stem 111a such that the central axis of the valve stem 111a is aligned with the central axis of the ceramic disc 111b. The ceramic disc 111b may include... Figure 1A Any features of the ceramic discs of valve cores 110a and 110b, and vice versa.

[0148] In some implementations, the first inlet conduit 112 includes a hose, pipe, piping system, or adapter through which hot water flows into the manifold assembly 216. Figure 1B The first inlet pipe 112 may include Figure 1A Any feature of the first inlet pipe 112, and vice versa.

[0149] In some implementations, the second inlet conduit 114 includes a hose, pipe, piping system, or adapter through which cold water flows into the manifold assembly 116. Figure 1B The second inlet pipe 114 may include Figure 1A Any feature of the second inlet pipe 114, and vice versa.

[0150] In some implementations, manifold assembly 116 includes manifold cap 116a and manifold base 116b. Figure 1B The manifold assembly 116 may include Figure 1AAny feature of the manifold assembly 116, and vice versa.

[0151] In some embodiments, the manifold cover 116a includes a hollow shell having a mixing chamber for mixing water at different temperatures. Figure 1B The manifold cover 116a may include Figure 1A Any feature of the manifold cover 116a, and vice versa.

[0152] In some implementations, the manifold base 116b includes a hollow shell through which water of different temperatures can flow. Figure 1B The manifold base 116b may include Figure 1A Any features of the manifold base 116b, and vice versa.

[0153] In some embodiments, the flow sensor 117 includes a sensor for detecting and / or measuring the amount of water leaving the manifold assembly 116. In some embodiments, the flow sensor 117 may connect the manifold assembly 116 to an outlet adapter 118. Alternatively, in some embodiments, there may be no flow sensor 117, and the manifold assembly 116 may be directly connected to the outlet adapter 118. In some embodiments, the flow sensor 117 may send one or more electronic signals to and / or receive one or more electronic signals from the controller 101. In such embodiments, the one or more electronic signals may include a water volume signal.

[0154] In some embodiments, the outlet adapter 118 includes an adapter through which water flows out of the manifold assembly 116 after mixing. In some embodiments, the outlet adapter 118 may be connected to a flow sensor 117, which in turn may be connected to the manifold assembly 116. Figure 1B The export adapter 118 may include Figure 1A Any features of the export adapter 118, and vice versa.

[0155] Figure 2 An exploded isometric view of a faucet assembly 250, including an under-counter mixing tank 200 and an integrated faucet 224, is shown according to some embodiments. As shown, the faucet assembly 250 includes an under-counter mixing tank 200, a controller port 201a, a battery holder 220, a battery holder wire 220a, a sensor 222, a sensor wire 222a, a sensor window 223, an integrated faucet 224 with faucet parts 224a and 224b, a faucet hose 226, and a rotary handle 228. The faucet assembly 250 can be controlled using both the rotary handle 228 and the sensor 222. In some embodiments, the faucet assembly 250 may include an electronic position sensor, such as a rotary encoder assembly, within the rotary handle 228.

[0156] In some embodiments, the under-counter mixing tank 200 includes various components that control the water temperature and flow of the entire faucet assembly 250. In some embodiments, the under-counter mixing tank 200 may include a housing, a controller, a manifold assembly, a stepper motor, gear engagement, a valve core, first and second inlet pipes, and an outlet adapter. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to receive one or more electronic signals from a handle position sensor, a flow sensor, and / or a presence sensor. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to send one or more electronic command signals to one or more stepper motors of the under-counter mixing tank 200. In some embodiments, the one or more electronic signals may include one or more of a water flow signal, a water temperature signal, or an operation signal. In such embodiments, the operation signal may be configured to switch the faucet assembly from an open configuration to a closed configuration, or from a closed configuration to an open configuration. In some embodiments, one or more electronic signals may be sent to the controller from a separate control mechanism. In some embodiments, one or more of the battery, sensors, controller, and / or motor may communicate wirelessly with each other. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the aforementioned components may communicate via a wired connection. The under-counter mixing tank 200 may include... Figure 1A and Figure 1B Any feature of the under-counter mixing chamber 100, and vice versa.

[0157] In some embodiments, multiple controller ports 201a configured to receive wired connections from other electrical components may extend across the surface of the under-counter mixing chamber 200. In some embodiments, the connection between the electrical components may be wireless. Controller ports 201a may connect to a controller inside the under-counter mixing chamber 200. In some embodiments, controller ports 201a may receive wired connections from one or more of a battery, sensor, and / or handle outside the under-counter mixing chamber 200. For example, controller ports 201a may be electronically coupled to a battery holder wire 220a from battery holder 220, a sensor wire 222a from sensor 222, and / or a wire from rotary handle 228. Controller ports 201a may include... Figure 1B Any characteristic of controller port 101a, and vice versa.

[0158] In some embodiments, the battery holder 220 includes a housing for accommodating a power source, such as a battery. In some embodiments, the battery holder 220 may be located outside the under-counter mixing chamber 200 and electrically coupled to it. In such embodiments, the battery holder 220 may provide power to the electronics of the under-counter mixing chamber 200. In some embodiments, the battery holder 220 may be rectangular in shape. The battery holder 220 may include a battery holder lead wire 220a for electronically coupling the battery holder 220 to a controller port 201a of the under-counter mixing chamber 200.

[0159] In some embodiments, sensor 222 includes a proximity sensor for automatically activating the integrated faucet 224. Sensor 222 may include one or more sensor wires 222a for electronically coupling sensor 222 to a controller port 201a of the under-counter mixing tank 200. Both the rotating handle 228 and the sensor 222 can be used to control the faucet assembly 250. In some embodiments, when the presence of a person (or one or both hands) is detected, sensor 222 may send an operation signal to the controller to energize and de-energize the faucet. In such embodiments, activating sensor 222 may set the water to a preset temperature stored by the controller of the under-counter mixing tank 200. This preset temperature can be set by rotating the rotating handle 228 to a specific position. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the preset temperature can be set by rotating a knob or dial on the under-counter mixing tank 200. In some preferred embodiments, sensor 222 may be an infrared sensor. Alternatively, in some implementations, sensor 222 may be replaced by alternative sensors, such as, but not limited to, different types of proximity sensors, presence sensors, motion sensors, voice-activated sensors, external controllers, etc.

[0160] In some embodiments, sensor window 223 includes a window on the integrated faucet 224 that allows sensor 222 to detect the presence of a person (or one or both hands) near the faucet assembly 250. Sensor 222 may be located inside the integrated faucet 224 and adjacent to sensor window 223. In some embodiments, sensor window 223 may be located in front of faucet component 224a.

[0161] In some embodiments, the integrated faucet 224 includes faucet components 224a and 224b. In some embodiments, water can flow through a faucet hose 226 housed within the integrated faucet 224. Faucet component 224a may include a faucet body. Faucet component 224b may include an upper housing mounted on faucet component 224a. The materials of faucet components 224a and 224b may be, for example, but not limited to, brass, stainless steel, zinc alloy, plastic, etc.

[0162] In some embodiments, the faucet hose 226 includes a hose, tube, or piping system through which water flows from the under-counter mixing tank 200 and through the integrated faucet 224. The material of the faucet hose 226 may be, for example, but not limited to, PEX or other plastics, rubber, metal, etc. The hose may be rigid, flexible, or a combination of both in different areas. In some embodiments, the mixing chamber of the manifold assembly may be connected to an outlet adapter, which in turn connects to the faucet hose 226. In such embodiments, after water is mixed in the mixing chamber, it can flow through the outlet adapter and into the faucet hose 226. In some embodiments, the faucet hose 226 may be a separate component that delivers water to the entire length of the integrated faucet 224. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the faucet hose 226 or a portion thereof may be directly integrated into the structure of the integrated faucet 224, such that water flows along the inner surface of the integrated faucet 224. In some implementations, one end of the faucet hose 226 may be housed within the under-counter mixing tank 200, and the other end of the faucet hose 226 may be housed within the integrated faucet 224.

[0163] In some embodiments, the rotary handle 228 includes a handle for manually activating the integrated faucet 224. In some embodiments, the rotary handle 228 may include one or more wires for electronically coupling the rotary handle 228 to a controller port 201a of the under-counter mixing tank 200. In some embodiments, the rotary handle 228 may have rotation and click functions for controlling temperature and water flow on / off. Turning the rotary handle 228 left and right can store a position value on the controller of the under-counter mixing tank 200, and each stepper motor can use the position value to rotate its corresponding valve core to achieve a specified temperature. In some embodiments, the water flow can be turned off while the rotary handle 228 is held at a preferred temperature setting. In some embodiments, the rotary handle 228 can be moved to a preferred temperature setting without turning on the water flow. In either of the preceding two embodiments, the controller may be configured to read the position of the rotary handle 228 as a temperature setting and instruct the motor to deliver water at that temperature in the next automatic mode usage. In some implementations, when operating in manual mode, the water flow is turned on by first touching or pushing down the rotary handle 228 to open the water flow at a preset water volume and specific temperature setting, and then turned off by touching or pushing down a second time. For example, the faucet assembly 250 can remain closed until the rotary handle 228 is clicked (i.e., touched or pushed down), after which an open signal can be sent to the controller, powering the stepper motor and thus opening the valve core to the stored position. Water (now unobstructed) can then flow through the valve core, outlet adapter, and faucet hose 226, and exit the integral faucet 224. The faucet assembly 250 can be turned off by clicking the rotary handle 228 again. This process may be specific to the integral faucet 224, but is not limited to this type of faucet.

[0164] In some implementations, rotating the rotary handle 228 adjusts the water temperature and flow / volume. When the rotary handle 228 is in a specific rotary handle position corresponding to a specific water temperature setting, the faucet assembly 250 can be turned on or off by tapping the rotary handle 228 (i.e., by touching or pushing), thus setting the manual mode operation to the desired water temperature and volume. The rotary handle 228 can also be rotated while the water flow is off or kept off to set the automatic mode operation to the desired water temperature and volume. When the water flow is on and the sensor 222 detects the presence of a user, water can be delivered according to the water temperature setting of the rotary handle 228. During this process, the controller of the under-counter mixing tank 200 can instruct the motor to operate its corresponding valve core according to the water temperature setting. For example, this process may be specific to an integral faucet 224, but is not limited to this type of faucet.

[0165] In some implementations, the rotary handle 228 can be a "paddle" handle, similar to that of a kitchen faucet (see...). Figure 4 It replaces the faucet and operates like a kitchen tap.

[0166] Figure 3 An exploded isometric view of a faucet assembly 350, including an under-counter mixing tank 300 and a separate faucet 330, is shown according to some embodiments. As shown, the faucet assembly 350 includes an under-counter mixing tank 300, a controller port 301a, a temperature knob 303, a battery holder 320, a battery holder wire 320a, a sensor 322, a sensor wire 322a, a sensor window 323, a faucet hose 326, a separate faucet 330 with faucet parts 330a and 330b, and a lever handle 332. In some embodiments, the faucet assembly 350 may include an electronic position sensor inside the lever handle 332.

[0167] In some embodiments, the under-counter mixing tank 300 includes various components that control the water temperature and flow of the entire faucet assembly 350. In some embodiments, the under-counter mixing tank 300 may include a housing, a controller, a manifold assembly, a stepper motor, gear engagement, a valve core, first and second inlet pipes, and an outlet adapter. In some embodiments, one or more of the battery, sensor, controller, and / or motor may communicate wirelessly with each other. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the aforementioned components may communicate via a wired connection. The under-counter mixing tank 300 may include... Figure 1A and Figure 1B Under-counter mixing tank 100 and / or Figure 2 Any features of the under-counter mixing tank 200, and vice versa.

[0168] In some embodiments, multiple controller ports 301a configured to receive wired connections from other electrical components may extend across the surface of the under-counter mixing chamber 300. In some embodiments, the connection between the electrical components may be wireless. Controller ports 301a may connect to a controller inside the under-counter mixing chamber 300. In some embodiments, controller ports 301a may receive wired connections from one or more of a battery, sensor, and / or handle outside the under-counter mixing chamber 300. For example, controller ports 301a may be electronically coupled to a battery holder wire 320a from battery holder 320, a sensor wire 322a from sensor 322, and / or a wire from lever handle 332. Controller ports 301a may include... Figure 1B Controller port 101a and / or Figure 2 Any characteristics of the controller port 201a, and vice versa.

[0169] In some embodiments, the temperature knob 303 includes a knob, dial, or other adjustable feature on the outer surface of the under-counter mixing tank 300 for presetting the water temperature in automatic mode. The temperature knob 303 may be electronically connected to a controller of the under-counter mixing tank 300. In some embodiments, the temperature knob 303 may be located on the same outer surface of the under-counter mixing tank 300 through which a controller port 301a can extend.

[0170] In some embodiments, the battery holder 320 includes a housing for accommodating a power source, such as a battery. In some embodiments, the battery holder 320 may be externally attached to the under-counter mixing chamber 300. In such embodiments, the battery holder 320 may provide power to electronic components of the under-counter mixing chamber 300. In some embodiments, the battery holder 320 may be rectangular in shape. The battery holder 320 may include a battery holder lead wire 320a for electronically coupling the battery holder 320 to a controller port 301a of the under-counter mixing chamber 300. The battery holder 320 may include... Figure 2 Any features of the battery holder 220, and vice versa.

[0171] In some embodiments, sensor 322 includes a proximity sensor for automatically activating the split faucet 330. Sensor 322 may include one or more sensor wires 322a for electronically coupling sensor 322 to a controller port 301a of the under-counter mixing tank 300. Both the lever handle 332 and the sensor 322 can be used to control the faucet assembly 350. In some embodiments, sensor 322 may send an operation signal to the controller to energize and de-energize the faucet upon detecting the proximity of a user or infrared radiation. In such embodiments, activating sensor 322 may set the water to a preset temperature stored by the controller of the under-counter mixing tank 300. This preset temperature can be set by rotating lever handle 332 to a specific position. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the preset temperature can be set by rotating a knob or dial on the under-counter mixing tank 300. In some preferred embodiments, sensor 322 may be an infrared sensor. Alternatively, in some embodiments, sensor 322 may be replaced by alternative sensors, such as, but not limited to, different types of proximity sensors, presence sensors, motion sensors, voice-activated sensors, external controllers, etc. Sensor 322 may include Figure 2 Any feature of sensor 222, and vice versa.

[0172] In some embodiments, sensor window 323 includes a window on the split faucet 330 that allows sensor 322 to detect the presence of a person (or one or both hands) near faucet assembly 350. Sensor 322 may be located inside the split faucet 330 and adjacent to sensor window 323. In some embodiments, sensor window 323 may be located in front of faucet assembly 330a. Sensor window 323 may include... Figure 2 Any feature of the sensor window 223, and vice versa.

[0173] In some embodiments, the faucet hose 326 includes a hose, tube, or piping system through which water flows from the under-counter mixing tank 300 and through the split faucet 330. In some embodiments, the faucet hose 326 may be a separate component that delivers water to the entire length of the split faucet 330. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the faucet hose 326 or a portion thereof may be directly integrated into the structure of the split faucet 330, allowing water to flow along the inner surface of the split faucet 330. In some embodiments, one end of the faucet hose 326 may be received within the under-counter mixing tank 300, and the other end of the faucet hose 326 may be received within the split faucet 330. The faucet hose 326 may include... Figure 2 Any features of the faucet hose 226, and vice versa.

[0174] In some embodiments, the split faucet 330 includes faucet components 330a and 330b. In some embodiments, the split faucet 330 may have an 8-inch pitch. In some embodiments, water can flow through a faucet hose 326 housed within the split faucet 330. Faucet component 330a may include a faucet body. Faucet component 330b may include a faucet spout mounted on faucet component 330a. The materials of faucet components 330a and 330b may be, for example, but not limited to, brass, stainless steel, zinc alloy, plastic, etc.

[0175] In some embodiments, the lever handle 332 includes two handles for manually actuating the split faucet 330. In some embodiments, the lever handle 332 may include one or more wires for electronically coupling the lever handle 332 to a controller port 301a of the under-counter mixing tank 300. In some embodiments, the lever handle 332 may include a handle on the right side of the split faucet 330 for controlling the flow of cold water and a handle on the left side for controlling the flow of hot water. Rotating the lever handle 332 controls two valve cores in the under-counter mixing tank 300, simultaneously adjusting the temperature and flow rate of hot or cold water. When the lever handle 332 is rotated, a command signal can be sent to a corresponding stepper motor in the under-counter mixing tank 300, thereby adjusting its position and opening the valve core accordingly. Water can then flow through the valve core, outlet adapter, and faucet hose 326 before exiting the split faucet 330. The faucet assembly 350 can be opened and closed by rotating the lever handle 332 away from and back to its original position, respectively. For example, the process may be specific to the split faucet 330, but is not limited to this type of faucet.

[0176] Figure 4 An exploded isometric view of a faucet assembly 450, including an under-counter mixing tank 400 and a kitchen faucet 434, is shown according to some embodiments. As shown, the faucet assembly 450 includes an under-counter mixing tank 400, a controller port 401a, a battery holder 420, a battery holder wire 420a, a sensor 422, a sensor wire 422a, a sensor window 423, a faucet hose 426, a kitchen faucet 434 having faucet parts 434a, 434b, and 434c, and a handle 436. In some embodiments, the faucet assembly 450 may include an electronic position sensor inside the handle 436.

[0177] In some embodiments, the under-counter mixing tank 400 includes various components that control the water temperature and flow of the entire faucet assembly 450. In some embodiments, the under-counter mixing tank 400 may include a housing, a controller, a manifold assembly, a stepper motor, gear engagement, a valve core, first and second inlet pipes, and an outlet adapter. In some embodiments, one or more of the battery, sensor, controller, and / or motor may communicate wirelessly with each other. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the aforementioned components may communicate via a wired connection. The under-counter mixing tank 400 may include... Figure 1A and Figure 1B Under-counter mixing box 100 Figure 2 Under-counter mixing tank 200 and / or Figure 3 Any features of the under-counter mixing tank 300, and vice versa.

[0178] In some embodiments, multiple controller ports 401a configured to receive wired connections from other electrical components may extend across the surface of the under-counter mixing chamber 400. In some embodiments, the connection between the electrical components may be wireless. Controller ports 401a may include... Figure 1B Controller port 101a Figure 2 Controller port 201a and / or Figure 3 Any characteristic of controller port 301a, and vice versa.

[0179] In some embodiments, the battery holder 420 includes a housing for accommodating a power source, such as a battery. The battery holder 420 may include a battery holder lead wire 420a for electronically coupling the battery holder 420 to a controller port 401a of the under-counter mixing chamber 400. The battery holder 420 may include... Figure 2 Battery holder 220 and / or Figure 3 Any features of the battery holder 320, and vice versa.

[0180] In some embodiments, sensor 422 includes a proximity sensor for automatically activating kitchen faucet 434. Sensor 422 may include one or more sensor wires 422a for electronically coupling sensor 422 to a controller port 401a of under-counter mixing tank 400. Both handle 436 and sensor 422 can be used to control faucet assembly 450. In some embodiments, sensor 422 may send an operation signal to the controller to energize and de-energize the faucet upon detecting the proximity of a user or infrared radiation. In such embodiments, activating sensor 422 may set the water to a preset temperature stored by the controller of under-counter mixing tank 400. This preset temperature can be set by rotating handle 436 to a specific position. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the preset temperature can be set by rotating a knob or dial on under-counter mixing tank 400. In some preferred embodiments, sensor 422 may be an infrared sensor. Alternatively, in some embodiments, sensor 422 may be replaced by alternative sensors, such as, but not limited to, different types of proximity sensors, presence sensors, motion sensors, voice-activated sensors, external controllers, etc. Sensor 422 may include Figure 2 Sensor 222 and / or Figure 3 Any feature of sensor 322, and vice versa.

[0181] In some embodiments, sensor window 423 includes a window on kitchen faucet 434 that allows sensor 422 to detect the presence of a person (or one or both hands) near faucet assembly 450. Sensor 422 may be located inside kitchen faucet 434 and adjacent to sensor window 423. In some embodiments, sensor window 423 may be located in front of faucet assembly 434a. Sensor window 423 may include... Figure 2 Sensor window 223 and / or Figure 3 Any feature of the sensor window 323, and vice versa.

[0182] In some embodiments, the faucet hose 426 includes a hose, tube, or piping system through which water flows from the under-counter mixing tank 400 and through the kitchen faucet 434. In some embodiments, the faucet hose 426 may be a separate component that delivers water to the entire length of the kitchen faucet 434. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the faucet hose 426 or a portion thereof may be directly integrated into the structure of the kitchen faucet 434, allowing water to flow along the inner surface of the kitchen faucet 434. In some embodiments, one end of the faucet hose 426 may be received within the under-counter mixing tank 400, and the other end of the faucet hose 426 may be received within the kitchen faucet 434. In such embodiments, the end of the faucet hose 426 received within the kitchen faucet 434 may be connected to the nozzle of the faucet component 434c. The faucet hose 426 may include... Figure 2 faucet hose 226 and / or Figure 3 Any features of the faucet hose 326, and vice versa.

[0183] In some embodiments, the kitchen faucet 434 includes faucet components 434a, 434b, and 434c. Faucet component 434a may include a faucet body. Faucet component 434b may include a faucet spout mounted on faucet component 434a. Faucet component 434c may include a faucet nozzle assembly that may be removably mated to the end of faucet component 434. In some embodiments, the faucet nozzle assembly of faucet component 434c may include a nozzle on one surface and a panel with a button that activates the nozzle and switches between two spray modes. A faucet hose 426 may be fluidly coupled to the nozzle of faucet component 434c. The materials of faucet components 434a, 434b, and 434c may be, for example, but not limited to, brass, stainless steel, zinc alloy, plastic, etc.

[0184] In some embodiments, handle 436 includes a "paddle" handle for manually actuating kitchen faucet 434. In some embodiments, handle 436 may include one or more wires for electronically coupling handle 436 to a controller port 401a of under-counter mixing tank 400. In some embodiments, handle 436 may include a single-lever pull-down handle. In such embodiments, tossing handle 436 can control the valve core of under-counter mixing tank 400, simultaneously adjusting the temperature and flow rate of water reaching kitchen faucet 434. In some embodiments, turning handle 436 left or right can send command signals to a stepper motor of under-counter mixing tank 400, thereby adjusting its position accordingly. In some embodiments, if sensor 422 turns off kitchen faucet 434 when handle 436 is turned, the position of the stepper motor can be stored on the controller of under-counter mixing tank 400 until kitchen faucet 434 is turned back on. In some embodiments, when the handle 436 is raised or lowered, a command signal can be sent to the stepper motor of the under-counter mixing tank 400 to open the valve core to achieve the corresponding flow rate. The faucet assembly 450 can be opened and closed by lifting the handle 436 from its original position and pressing it back down. When this is done simultaneously, water at the corresponding temperature and flow rate will flow through the manifold assembly of the under-counter mixing tank 400. The water then passes through the valve core, outlet adapter, and faucet hose 426, and exits through the nozzle of the kitchen faucet 434. In some embodiments, the water flow can be turned off while the handle 436 is held at a preferred temperature setting. In some embodiments, the handle 436 can be moved to the preferred temperature setting without turning on the water flow. In either of the preceding two embodiments, the controller can be configured to read the position of the handle 436 as the temperature setting and instruct the motor to deliver water at that temperature in the next automatic mode. In some implementations, when operating in manual mode, a first touch or push of handle 436 can turn on the water flow at a preset water volume and specific temperature, followed by a second touch or push to turn off the water flow. Alternatively, rotating handle 436 while the water flow is turned off or remains off can set the automatic mode operation to the desired water temperature and volume. When the water flow is on and sensor 422 detects the user's presence, water can be delivered according to the water temperature setting on handle 436. During this process, the controller of the under-counter mixing tank 400 can instruct the motor to operate its corresponding valve core according to the water temperature setting. This process may be specific to, for example, a kitchen faucet 434, but is not limited to this type of faucet.

[0185] In some implementations, the movable handle 436 can adjust both water temperature and water flow / volume. During manual mode operation, the water flow can be increased by lifting the handle 436 upwards away from the faucet body of the kitchen faucet 434, or decreased by pressing the handle 436 downwards towards the faucet body of the kitchen faucet 434. Rotating the handle 436 from left to right adjusts the water temperature. Therefore, rotating the handle 436 while keeping the water flow off can also set the automatic mode operation to the desired water temperature. This process may be specific to the kitchen faucet 434, but is not limited to this type of faucet.

[0186] In some implementations, handle 436 can be a rotating handle like the handle of an integral faucet (see...). Figure 2 It replaces the faucet and operates like a one-piece faucet.

[0187] Figure 5 An exploded isometric view of a faucet assembly 550, including an under-counter mixing tank 500 and a center-outlet faucet 538, is shown according to some embodiments. As shown, the faucet assembly 550 includes an under-counter mixing tank 500, a controller port 501a, a temperature knob 503, a battery holder 520, a battery holder wire 520a, a sensor 522, a sensor wire 522a, a faucet hose 526, a center-outlet faucet 538 having faucet parts 538a, 538b, 538c, and 538d, and a handle 540. In some embodiments, the faucet assembly 550 may include an electronic position sensor within the handle 540.

[0188] In some embodiments, the under-counter mixing tank 500 includes various components that control the water temperature and flow of the entire faucet assembly 550. In some embodiments, the under-counter mixing tank 500 may include a housing, a controller, a manifold assembly, a stepper motor, gear engagement, a valve core, first and second inlet pipes, and an outlet adapter. In some embodiments, one or more of the battery, sensor, controller, and / or motor may communicate wirelessly with each other. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the aforementioned components may communicate via a wired connection. The under-counter mixing tank 500 may include... Figure 1A and Figure 1B Under-counter mixing box 100 Figure 2 200 under-counter mixing tank Figure 3 Under-counter mixing tank 300 and / or Figure 4 Any features of the under-counter mixing tank 400, and vice versa.

[0189] In some embodiments, multiple controller ports 501a configured to receive wired connections from other electrical components may extend across the surface of the under-counter mixing chamber 500. In some embodiments, the connection between the electrical components may be wireless. Controller ports 501a may include... Figure 1B Controller port 101a Figure 2 Controller port 201a Figure 3 Controller port 301a and / or Figure 4 Any characteristics of the controller port 401a, and vice versa.

[0190] In some embodiments, the temperature knob 503 includes a knob, dial, or other adjustable feature on the outer surface of the mixing tank 500 under the countertop for presetting the water temperature in automatic mode. The temperature knob 503 may include... Figure 3 The temperature knob 303 has any of the following characteristics, and vice versa.

[0191] In some embodiments, the battery holder 520 includes a housing for accommodating a power source, such as a battery. The battery holder 520 may include a battery holder lead wire 520a for electronically coupling the battery holder 520 to a controller port 501a of the under-counter mixing chamber 500. The battery holder 520 may include... Figure 2 Battery holder 220 Figure 3 Battery holder 320 and / or Figure 4 Any features of the battery holder 420, and vice versa.

[0192] In some embodiments, sensor 522 includes a proximity sensor for automatically activating the center outlet faucet 538. Sensor 522 may include one or more sensor leads 522a for electronically coupling sensor 522 to a controller port 501a of the under-counter mixing tank 500. Both handle 540 and sensor 522 can be used to control the faucet assembly 550. In some embodiments, sensor 522 may send an operation signal to the controller to energize and de-energize the faucet upon detecting the proximity of a user or infrared radiation. In such embodiments, activating sensor 522 may set the water to a preset temperature stored by the controller of the under-counter mixing tank 500. This preset temperature can be set by rotating handle 540 to a specific position. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the preset temperature can be set by rotating a knob or dial on the under-counter mixing tank 500. In some preferred embodiments, sensor 522 may be an infrared sensor. Alternatively, in some embodiments, sensor 522 may be replaced by alternative sensors, such as, but not limited to, different types of proximity sensors, presence sensors, motion sensors, voice-activated sensors, external controllers, etc. Sensor 522 may include Figure 2 Sensor 222, Figure 3 Sensor 322 and / or Figure 4 Any feature of sensor 422, and vice versa.

[0193] In some embodiments, sensor window 523 includes a window on the center faucet 538 that allows sensor 522 to detect the presence of a person (or one or both hands) near faucet assembly 550. Sensor 522 may be located inside the center faucet 538 and adjacent to sensor window 523. In some embodiments, sensor window 523 may be located in front of faucet assembly 538c. Sensor window 523 may include... Figure 2 Sensor window 223 Figure 3 Sensor window 323 and / or Figure 4 Any feature of the sensor window 423, and vice versa.

[0194] In some embodiments, the faucet hose 526 includes a hose, tube, or piping system through which water flows from the under-counter mixing tank 500 and through the center outlet faucet 538. In some embodiments, the faucet hose 526 may be a separate component that delivers water to the center outlet faucet 538 along its entire length. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the faucet hose 526 or a portion thereof may be directly integrated into the structure of the center outlet faucet 538, allowing water to flow along the inner surface of the center outlet faucet 538. In some embodiments, one end of the faucet hose 526 may be received within the under-counter mixing tank 500, and the other end of the faucet hose 526 may be received within the center outlet faucet 538. The faucet hose 526 may include... Figure 2 226 faucet hose Figure 3 326 faucet hose and / or Figure 4 Any features of the faucet hose 426, and vice versa.

[0195] In some embodiments, the center-outlet faucet 538 includes faucet components 538a, 538b, 538c, and 538d. In some embodiments, the center-outlet faucet 538 may have a 4-inch pitch. In some embodiments, water can flow through a faucet hose 526 housed within the center-outlet faucet 538. Faucet component 538a may include a putty plate. Faucet component 538b may include a decorative ring mounted on faucet component 538a. Faucet component 538c may include a faucet body mounted on faucet component 538b. Faucet component 538d may include an upper housing mounted on faucet component 538c. The materials of faucet components 538a, 538b, 538c, and 538d may be, for example, but not limited to, brass, stainless steel, zinc alloy, plastic, etc.

[0196] In some embodiments, handle 540 includes two handles for manually activating the center outlet faucet 538. In some embodiments, handle 540 may include one or more wires for electronically coupling handle 540 to a controller port 501a of the under-counter mixing tank 500. In some embodiments, handle 540 may include a handle located to the right of the center outlet faucet 538 for controlling the flow of cold water and a handle located to the left of the center outlet faucet 538 for controlling the flow of hot water. Rotating handle 540 can control two valve cores in the under-counter mixing tank 500, simultaneously adjusting the temperature and flow rate of hot or cold water. When handle 540 is rotated, a command signal can be sent to the corresponding stepper motor of the under-counter mixing tank 500, thereby adjusting its position and opening the valve core accordingly. Water can then flow through the valve core, outlet adapter, and faucet hose 526 before exiting the center outlet faucet 538. The faucet assembly 550 can be opened and closed by rotating handle 540 away from and back to its original position, respectively. For example, the process may be specific to the center-outlet faucet 538, but is not limited to this type of faucet.

[0197] Each of the above-described faucet components is capable of operating in either manual or automatic mode. In some embodiments, manual mode operation may involve manually activating the water flow. In some embodiments, automatic mode operation may involve activating the water flow via electronic signals received from sensors such as proximity sensors, presence sensors, motion sensors, voice-activated sensors, external controllers, etc. In some embodiments, the water flow can be turned on when a sensor detects the presence of a person (or one or both of a person's hands). In such embodiments, the water flow can be turned off when a sensor detects the absence of a person (or one or both of a person's hands). In some embodiments, the faucet component can be configured such that manual mode operation (i.e., moving the handle) overrides automatic mode operation. In some embodiments, manual mode operation can be deactivated (e.g., by toggling a switch on the housing of the mixing tank under the countertop). Alternatively, in some embodiments, automatic mode operation can be deactivated. This process may be specific to, but not limited to, integral faucets 224, split faucets 330, kitchen faucets 434, and center-splash faucets 538.

[0198] In some implementations, automatic mode operation can be disabled when manual mode operation exceeds control or when automatic mode operation is temporarily disabled. For example, after the controller receives a signal from the handle and sends a command signal to the motor instructing it to rotate in one direction or another (manual mode operation), the controller can be configured not to receive any signals from the sensor or send any command signals (automatic mode operation). In another implementation, the controller can be configured to shut off the sensor when entering manual mode operation, thereby preventing automatic mode operation. This process may be specific to, but is not limited to, integral faucets 224, split faucets 330, kitchen faucets 434, and center-splash faucets 538.

[0199] In some implementations, automatic mode operation can override manual mode water flow control but not manual mode temperature control, allowing the temperature to be adjusted using a handle when the water flow is turned on during automatic mode operation.

[0200] In some implementations, automatic mode operation can provide users with water-saving benefits. For example, when washing hands or brushing teeth, the water flow may turn on when the user's hand is near the faucet and turn off when the user's hand leaves the faucet.

[0201] In some embodiments, the mixing valve can move to the indicated temperature position before water flow is initiated (e.g., while the valve upstream of the mixing valve remains closed). In other embodiments, the mixing valve can only move to the indicated temperature position when water flow is initiated (e.g., when the mixing valve also controls absolute flow, or when the mixing valve and the upstream flow control valve operate simultaneously).

[0202] The following is a list of exemplary embodiments. Any one or more of the exemplary embodiments may be combined, in whole or in part, with each other and / or with other embodiments and / or features disclosed herein:

[0203] Implementation Scheme 1. A hybrid assembly for a faucet component, comprising:

[0204] manifold;

[0205] A first motor, the first motor being coupled to a first valve core; and

[0206] The second motor is coupled to the second valve core.

[0207] The mixing component is configured to be located below the countertop surface, and the faucet assembly is configured to be mounted on the countertop surface.

[0208] The mixing component is configured to mix hot water received from a hot water source with cold water received from a cold water source, and to deliver the mixed water to the faucet assembly.

[0209] Implementation Scheme 2. The hybrid component as described in Implementation Scheme 1, wherein

[0210] The first motor and the second motor are configured to communicate electronically with the faucet assembly.

[0211] The first valve core is configured to receive hot water from a hot water source.

[0212] The second valve core is configured to receive cold water from a cold water source.

[0213] The first motor is configured to operate the first valve core to deliver hot water to the manifold.

[0214] The second motor is configured to operate the second valve core to deliver cold water to the manifold assembly, and

[0215] The manifold is configured to deliver mixed water to the faucet assembly.

[0216] Implementation Scheme 3. The hybrid assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 1 or 2, wherein the manifold comprises:

[0217] A left-side opening, which is configured to receive the first valve core;

[0218] A right-side opening, configured to receive the second valve core;

[0219] One or more bottom openings, the one or more bottom openings being configured to receive a first inlet pipe and a second inlet pipe; and

[0220] The upper opening is configured to receive the outlet pipe.

[0221] Implementation Scheme 4. The hybrid assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 3, wherein the central axis of the one or more bottom openings is parallel to the central axis of the upper opening.

[0222] Implementation Scheme 5. The mixing assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 1 or 2, wherein the manifold includes a mixing chamber.

[0223] Implementation Scheme 6. The mixing assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 1 or 2, wherein the manifold includes a manifold base and a manifold cover, wherein the manifold cover includes a mixing chamber.

[0224] Implementation Scheme 7. The hybrid assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 6, wherein the manifold base and the manifold cap comprise separate components connected together.

[0225] Implementation Scheme 8. The hybrid assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 6, wherein the manifold base and the manifold cap are integrally formed components.

[0226] Implementation Scheme 9. The hybrid assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 1 or 2, wherein the manifold comprises an engineered thermoplastic.

[0227] Implementation Scheme 10. The hybrid assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 1 or 2, wherein the central horizontal axis of the first valve core and the central horizontal axis of the second valve core are perpendicular to the central axis of the manifold cap.

[0228] Implementation Scheme 11. The hybrid assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 1 or 2, wherein the central horizontal axis of the first valve core and the central horizontal axis of the second valve core are the same.

[0229] Implementation Scheme 12. The hybrid assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 1 or 2, the hybrid assembly including a controller configured to electronically communicate with the faucet handle of the faucet assembly.

[0230] In manual mode,

[0231] The controller is configured to receive electronic signals from the faucet handle.

[0232] The controller is configured to instruct the first motor to operate the first valve core to open or close to adjust the amount of hot water delivered to the manifold, and

[0233] The controller is configured to instruct the second motor to operate the second valve core to open or close in order to adjust the amount of cold water delivered to the manifold.

[0234] Implementation Scheme 13. The hybrid assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 12, wherein the faucet handle includes an electronic position sensor configured to communicate electronically with the controller, wherein the controller is configured to receive a handle position signal from the electronic position sensor and to instruct the first motor and the second motor based on the handle position.

[0235] Implementation Scheme 14. A hybrid assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 1 or 2, the hybrid assembly including a controller configured to communicate electronically with the sensor of the faucet assembly.

[0236] In automatic mode,

[0237] The controller is configured to receive electronic signals from the sensor.

[0238] The controller is configured to instruct the first motor to operate the first valve core to open or close to adjust the amount of hot water delivered to the manifold, and

[0239] The controller is configured to instruct the second motor to operate the second valve core to open or close in order to adjust the amount of cold water delivered to the manifold.

[0240] Implementation Scheme 15. The hybrid assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 14, wherein the sensor includes one or more of an infrared presence sensor, a capacitive sensor, a motion sensor, or a microphone.

[0241] Implementation Scheme 16. The mixing assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 14, wherein the controller is associated with a manual temperature control, and wherein in the automatic mode, the mixed water at a certain temperature is delivered according to the setting of the manual temperature control.

[0242] Implementation Scheme 17. The hybrid assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 16, wherein the manual temperature control includes a knob or dial located on the outer surface of the housing.

[0243] Implementation Scheme 18. The hybrid component as described in Implementation Scheme 1 or 2, wherein the hybrid component is configured to operate in manual mode, in automatic mode, wherein the presence of a user is detected by a sensor of the faucet component, or in both manual and automatic modes by operating the faucet handle of the faucet component.

[0244] Implementation Scheme 19. The hybrid component as described in Implementation Scheme 18, wherein the hybrid component is configured to operate in the manual mode and the automatic mode, wherein the automatic mode is disabled during operation in the manual mode.

[0245] Implementation Scheme 20. The hybrid assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 1 or 2, wherein the hybrid assembly is located on the inner surface of the housing.

[0246] Implementation Scheme 21. The hybrid assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 12, wherein the controller is located on the inner surface of the housing.

[0247] Implementation Scheme 22. The hybrid assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 14, wherein the controller is located on the inner surface of the housing.

[0248] Implementation Scheme 23. The hybrid assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 12, the hybrid assembly including a power supply, wherein the controller, the faucet handle, the sensor, the first motor, the second motor and the power supply are configured to communicate electronically.

[0249] Implementation Scheme 24. The hybrid component as described in Implementation Scheme 23, wherein the power supply, the controller, the faucet handle, the sensor, the first motor, and the second motor are configured for wired electronic communication.

[0250] Implementation Scheme 25. The hybrid component as described in Implementation Scheme 24, wherein the controller is associated with one or more electrical ports, each port being configured to receive and couple to an electrical wire.

[0251] Implementation Scheme 26. The hybrid assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 25, wherein the housing includes one or more openings to receive the one or more electrical ports.

[0252] Implementation Scheme 27. The hybrid assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 1 or 2, wherein the first motor is coupled to the first valve core via a first gear assembly, and the second motor is coupled to the second valve core via a second gear assembly.

[0253] Implementation Scheme 28. The hybrid component as described in Implementation Scheme 1 or 2, wherein

[0254] The first valve core includes a first valve stem.

[0255] The second valve core includes a second valve stem.

[0256] The first motor is configured to rotate the first valve stem to open and close the first valve spool, and

[0257] The second motor is configured to rotate the second valve stem to open and close the second valve core.

[0258] Implementation Scheme 29. The hybrid assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 28, wherein the first valve stem and the second valve stem are each configured to rotate a ceramic disc to open and close the first valve core and the second valve core, respectively.

[0259] Implementation Scheme 30. The hybrid assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 28, wherein the first motor is coupled to the first valve stem via a first gear assembly, and the second motor is coupled to the second valve stem via a second gear assembly.

[0260] Implementation Scheme 31. The hybrid component as described in Implementation Scheme 28, wherein

[0261] The first gear assembly includes a small bevel gear coupled to the first motor and a spur bevel gear meshing with the small bevel gear and coupled to the first valve stem.

[0262] Furthermore, the second gear assembly includes a small bevel gear coupled to the second motor and a spur bevel gear meshing with the small bevel gear and coupled to the second valve stem.

[0263] Implementation Scheme 32. The hybrid assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 1 or 2, wherein the first valve core and the second valve core are at least partially located in the manifold.

[0264] Implementation Scheme 33. The hybrid component as described in Implementation Scheme 12, the hybrid component including a flow sensor in electronic communication with the controller.

[0265] Implementation Scheme 34. The hybrid component as described in Implementation Scheme 14, the hybrid component including a flow sensor in electronic communication with the controller.

[0266] Implementation Scheme 35. A faucet assembly, comprising:

[0267] Faucet body;

[0268] A faucet handle, the faucet handle being configured to control both the amount and temperature of water leaving the faucet body; and

[0269] Hybrid component, wherein the hybrid component includes:

[0270] manifold;

[0271] A first electric motor, the first electric motor being coupled to a first valve core; and

[0272] A second electric motor, which is coupled to a second valve core.

[0273] in

[0274] The mixing component is configured to be located below the countertop surface, and the faucet assembly is configured to be mounted on the countertop surface.

[0275] The mixing component is configured to mix hot water received from a hot water source with cold water received from a cold water source, and to deliver the mixed water to the faucet assembly.

[0276] Implementation Scheme 36. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 35, wherein

[0277] The first motor and the second motor are configured to communicate electronically with the faucet assembly.

[0278] The first valve core is configured to receive hot water from a hot water source.

[0279] The second valve core is configured to receive cold water from a cold water source.

[0280] The first motor is configured to operate the first valve core to deliver hot water to the manifold.

[0281] The second motor is configured to operate the second valve core to deliver cold water to the manifold assembly, and

[0282] The manifold is configured to deliver mixed water to the faucet assembly.

[0283] Implementation Scheme 37. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 36, wherein the central axis of one or more bottom openings is parallel to the central axis of the upper opening.

[0284] Implementation Scheme 38. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 35 or 36, wherein the faucet body is a kitchen faucet or an integrated faucet.

[0285] Implementation Scheme 39. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 35 or 36, wherein the faucet handle is a lever handle, a rotary handle, or a paddle handle.

[0286] Implementation Scheme 40. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 35 or 36, wherein the manifold includes a mixing chamber.

[0287] Implementation Scheme 41. The mixing assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 35 or 36, wherein the manifold includes a manifold base and a manifold cap, wherein the manifold cap includes a mixing chamber.

[0288] Implementation Scheme 42. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 41, wherein the manifold base and the manifold cap comprise separate components connected together.

[0289] Implementation Scheme 43. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 41, wherein the manifold base and the manifold cap are integrally formed components.

[0290] Implementation Scheme 44. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 35 or 36, wherein the manifold comprises an engineered thermoplastic.

[0291] Implementation Scheme 45. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 35 or 36, wherein the central horizontal axis of the first valve core and the central horizontal axis of the second valve core are perpendicular to the central axis of the manifold cover.

[0292] Implementation Scheme 46. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 35 or 36, wherein the central horizontal axis of the first valve core and the central horizontal axis of the second valve core are the same.

[0293] Implementation Scheme 47. A faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 35 or 36, the faucet assembly including a controller configured to electronically communicate with the faucet handle of the faucet assembly.

[0294] In manual mode,

[0295] The controller is configured to receive electronic signals from the faucet handle.

[0296] The controller is configured to instruct the first motor to operate the first valve core to open or close to adjust the amount of hot water delivered to the manifold, and

[0297] The controller is configured to instruct the second motor to operate the second valve core to open or close in order to adjust the amount of cold water delivered to the manifold.

[0298] Implementation Scheme 48. The faucet assembly of Implementation Scheme 47, wherein the faucet handle includes an electronic position sensor configured to communicate electronically with the controller, wherein the controller is configured to receive a handle position signal from the electronic position sensor and to instruct the first motor and the second motor based on the handle position.

[0299] Implementation Scheme 49. A faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 35 or 36, the faucet assembly including a controller configured to communicate electronically with sensors of the faucet assembly.

[0300] In automatic mode,

[0301] The controller is configured to receive electronic signals from the sensor.

[0302] The controller is configured to instruct the first motor to operate the first valve core to open or close to adjust the amount of hot water delivered to the manifold, and

[0303] The controller is configured to instruct the second motor to operate the second valve core to open or close in order to adjust the amount of cold water delivered to the manifold.

[0304] Implementation Scheme 50. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 49, wherein the sensor includes one or more of an infrared presence sensor, a capacitive sensor, a motion sensor, or a microphone.

[0305] Implementation Scheme 51. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 49, wherein the controller is associated with a manual temperature control, and wherein in the automatic mode, the mixed water at a certain temperature is delivered according to the setting of the manual temperature control.

[0306] Implementation Scheme 52. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 51, wherein the manual temperature control includes a knob or dial located on the outer surface of the housing.

[0307] Implementation Scheme 53. A faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 35 or 36, wherein the faucet assembly is configured to operate in manual mode or in automatic mode by operating the faucet handle of the faucet assembly, wherein the presence of a user is detected by a sensor of the faucet assembly, or in both manual mode and automatic mode.

[0308] Implementation Scheme 54. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 53, wherein the faucet assembly is configured to operate in the manual mode and the automatic mode, wherein the automatic mode is disabled during operation in the manual mode.

[0309] Implementation Scheme 55. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 53, wherein the faucet handle is configured to remain in a handle position indicating a water temperature setting when the water flow is turned off or kept off in manual mode or when the water flow is turned on or off in automatic mode.

[0310] Implementation Scheme 56. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 55, wherein in the manual mode, when the user first touches, pushes, or clicks the faucet handle, the mixed water at a certain temperature is delivered according to the water temperature setting of the faucet handle.

[0311] Implementation Scheme 57. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 55 or 56, wherein in the manual mode, when the user touches, pushes, or clicks the faucet handle for the second time, the delivery of the mixed water is shut off while the temperature setting of the faucet handle is maintained.

[0312] Implementation Scheme 58. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 55, wherein in the automatic mode, when the water flow is turned on, when the sensor detects the presence of the user, the mixed water at a certain temperature is delivered according to the water temperature setting of the faucet handle.

[0313] Implementation Scheme 59. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 58, wherein the controller is configured to determine a preferred water temperature based on the handle position setting and to instruct one or both of the first motor and the second motor to operate a corresponding valve core according to the determined water temperature.

[0314] Implementation Scheme 60. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 59, wherein the controller is configured to instruct one or both of the first motor and the second motor according to the determined water temperature setting when the water flow is turned off or kept off.

[0315] Implementation Scheme 61. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 59, wherein the controller instructs one or both of the first motor and the second motor according to the determined water temperature setting when the water flow is turned on.

[0316] Implementation Scheme 62. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 35 or 36, wherein the mixing component is located on the inner surface of the housing.

[0317] Implementation Scheme 63. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 47, wherein the controller is located on the inner surface of the housing.

[0318] Implementation Scheme 64. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 49, wherein the controller is located on the inner surface of the housing.

[0319] Implementation Scheme 65. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 47, the faucet assembly including a power supply, wherein the controller, the faucet handle, the sensor, the first motor, the second motor and the power supply are configured to communicate electronically.

[0320] Implementation Scheme 66. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 59, wherein the power supply, the controller, the faucet handle, the sensor, the first motor, and the second motor are configured for wired electronic communication.

[0321] Implementation Scheme 67. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 60, wherein the controller is associated with one or more electrical ports, each port being configured to receive and couple to an electrical conductor.

[0322] Implementation Scheme 68. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 61, wherein the housing includes one or more openings for receiving the one or more electrical ports.

[0323] Implementation Scheme 69. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 35 or 36, wherein the first motor is coupled to the first valve core via a first gear assembly, and the second motor is coupled to the second valve core via a second gear assembly.

[0324] Implementation Scheme 70. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 35 or 36, wherein

[0325] The first valve core includes a first valve stem.

[0326] The second valve core includes a second valve stem.

[0327] The first motor is configured to rotate the first valve stem to open and close the first valve spool, and

[0328] The second motor is configured to rotate the second valve stem to open and close the second valve core.

[0329] Implementation Scheme 71. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 70, wherein the first valve stem and the second valve stem are each configured to rotate a ceramic disc to open and close the first valve core and the second valve core, respectively.

[0330] Implementation Scheme 72. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 70, wherein the first motor is coupled to the first valve stem via a first gear assembly, and the second motor is coupled to the second valve stem via a second gear assembly.

[0331] Implementation Scheme 73. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 70, wherein

[0332] The first gear assembly includes a small bevel gear coupled to the first motor and a spur bevel gear meshing with the small bevel gear and coupled to the first valve stem.

[0333] Furthermore, the second gear assembly includes a small bevel gear coupled to the second motor and a spur bevel gear meshing with the small bevel gear and coupled to the second valve stem.

[0334] Implementation Scheme 74. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 35 or 36, wherein the first valve core and the second valve core are at least partially located in the manifold.

[0335] Implementation Scheme 75. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 47, the faucet assembly including a flow sensor in electronic communication with the controller.

[0336] Implementation Scheme 76. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 49, the faucet assembly including a flow sensor in electronic communication with the controller.

[0337] Implementation Scheme 77. A faucet assembly, comprising:

[0338] Faucet body;

[0339] A first faucet handle, configured to control the amount of hot water leaving the faucet body;

[0340] A second faucet handle, configured to control the amount of cold water leaving the faucet body; and

[0341] Hybrid component, wherein the hybrid component includes:

[0342] manifold;

[0343] A first electric motor, the first electric motor being coupled to a first valve core; and

[0344] A second electric motor, which is coupled to a second valve core.

[0345] in

[0346] The mixing component is configured to be located below the countertop surface, and the faucet assembly is configured to be mounted on the countertop surface.

[0347] The mixing component is configured to mix hot water received from a hot water source with cold water received from a cold water source, and to deliver the mixed water to the faucet assembly.

[0348] Implementation Scheme 78. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 77, wherein

[0349] The first motor and the second motor are configured to communicate electronically with the faucet assembly.

[0350] The first valve core is configured to receive hot water from a hot water source.

[0351] The second valve core is configured to receive cold water from a cold water source.

[0352] The first motor is configured to operate the first valve core to deliver hot water to the manifold.

[0353] The second motor is configured to operate the second valve core to deliver cold water to the manifold assembly, and

[0354] The manifold is configured to deliver mixed water to the faucet assembly.

[0355] Implementation Scheme 79. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 78, wherein the central axis of one or more bottom openings is parallel to the central axis of the upper opening.

[0356] Implementation Scheme 80. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 77 or 78, wherein the faucet body is a center-outlet faucet or a split-type faucet.

[0357] Implementation Scheme 81. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 77 or 78, wherein the first faucet handle and the second faucet handle are lever handles, rotary handles, or paddle handles.

[0358] Implementation Scheme 82. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 77 or 78, wherein the manifold includes a mixing chamber.

[0359] Implementation Scheme 83. The mixing assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 77 or 78, wherein the manifold includes a manifold base and a manifold cap, wherein the manifold cap includes a mixing chamber.

[0360] Implementation Scheme 84. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 83, wherein the manifold base and the manifold cap comprise separate components connected together.

[0361] Implementation Scheme 85. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 83, wherein the manifold base and the manifold cap are integrally formed components.

[0362] Implementation Scheme 86. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 77 or 78, wherein the manifold comprises an engineered thermoplastic.

[0363] Implementation Scheme 87. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 77 or 78, wherein the central horizontal axis of the first valve core and the central horizontal axis of the second valve core are perpendicular to the central axis of the manifold cover.

[0364] Implementation Scheme 88. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 77 or 78, wherein the central horizontal axis of the first valve core and the central horizontal axis of the second valve core are the same.

[0365] Implementation Scheme 89. A faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 77 or 78, the faucet assembly including a controller configured to electronically communicate with a first faucet handle and a second faucet handle of the faucet assembly.

[0366] In manual mode,

[0367] The controller is configured to receive electronic signals from one or both of the first faucet handle or the second faucet handle.

[0368] The controller is configured to instruct the first motor to operate the first valve core to open or close to adjust the amount of hot water delivered to the manifold, and

[0369] The controller is configured to instruct the second motor to operate the second valve core to open or close in order to adjust the amount of cold water delivered to the manifold.

[0370] Implementation Scheme 90. The faucet assembly of Implementation Scheme 89, wherein one or both of the first faucet handle or the second faucet handle include an electronic position sensor configured to communicate electronically with the controller, wherein the controller is configured to receive a handle position signal from the electronic position sensor and to instruct the first motor and the second motor based on the handle position.

[0371] Implementation Scheme 91. A faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 77 or 78, the faucet assembly including a controller configured to communicate electronically with sensors of the faucet assembly.

[0372] In automatic mode,

[0373] The controller is configured to receive electronic signals from the sensor.

[0374] The controller is configured to instruct the first motor to operate the first valve core to open or close to adjust the amount of hot water delivered to the manifold, and

[0375] The controller is configured to instruct the second motor to operate the second valve core to open or close in order to adjust the amount of cold water delivered to the manifold.

[0376] Implementation Scheme 92. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 91, wherein the sensor includes one or more of an infrared presence sensor, a capacitive sensor, a motion sensor, or a microphone.

[0377] Implementation Scheme 93. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 91, wherein the controller is associated with a manual temperature control, and wherein in the automatic mode, the mixed water at a certain temperature is delivered according to the setting of the manual temperature control.

[0378] Implementation Scheme 94. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 93, wherein the manual temperature control includes a knob or dial located on the outer surface of the housing.

[0379] Implementation Scheme 95. A faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 77 or 78, the faucet assembly being configured to operate in manual mode or in automatic mode by actuating one or both of the first faucet handle or the second faucet handle of the faucet assembly, wherein the presence of a user is detected by a sensor of the faucet assembly, or in both manual mode and automatic mode.

[0380] Implementation Scheme 96. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 95, wherein the faucet assembly is configured to operate in the manual mode and the automatic mode, wherein the automatic mode is disabled during operation in the manual mode.

[0381] Implementation Scheme 97. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 77 or 78, wherein the mixing component is located on the inner surface of the housing.

[0382] Implementation Scheme 98. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 89, wherein the controller is located on the inner surface of the housing.

[0383] Implementation Scheme 99. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 91, wherein the controller is located on the inner surface of the housing.

[0384] Implementation Scheme 100. A faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 89, the faucet assembly including a power source, wherein the controller, the first faucet handle, the second faucet handle, the sensor, the first motor, the second motor and the power source are configured to communicate electronically.

[0385] Implementation Scheme 101. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 100, wherein the power supply, the controller, the first faucet handle, the second faucet handle, the sensor, the first motor, and the second motor are configured for wired electronic communication.

[0386] Implementation Scheme 102. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 101, wherein the controller is associated with one or more electrical ports, each port being configured to receive and couple to an electrical conductor.

[0387] Implementation Scheme 103. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 102, wherein the housing includes one or more openings to receive the one or more electrical ports.

[0388] Implementation Scheme 104. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 77 or 78, wherein the first motor is coupled to the first valve core via a first gear assembly, and the second motor is coupled to the second valve core via a second gear assembly.

[0389] Implementation Scheme 105. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 77 or 78, wherein

[0390] The first valve core includes a first valve stem.

[0391] The second valve core includes a second valve stem.

[0392] The first motor is configured to rotate the first valve stem to open and close the first valve spool, and

[0393] The second motor is configured to rotate the second valve stem to open and close the second valve core.

[0394] Implementation Scheme 106. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 105, wherein the first valve stem and the second valve stem are each configured to rotate a ceramic disc to open and close the first valve core and the second valve core, respectively.

[0395] Implementation Scheme 107. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 105, wherein the first motor is coupled to the first valve stem via a first gear assembly, and the second motor is coupled to the second valve stem via a second gear assembly.

[0396] Implementation Scheme 108. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 105, wherein

[0397] The first gear assembly includes a small bevel gear coupled to the first motor and a spur bevel gear meshing with the small bevel gear and coupled to the first valve stem.

[0398] Furthermore, the second gear assembly includes a small bevel gear coupled to the second motor and a spur bevel gear meshing with the small bevel gear and coupled to the second valve stem.

[0399] Implementation Scheme 109. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 77 or 78, wherein the first valve core and the second valve core are at least partially located in the manifold.

[0400] Implementation Scheme 110. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 89, the faucet assembly including a flow sensor in electronic communication with the controller.

[0401] Implementation Scheme 111. The faucet assembly as described in Implementation Scheme 91, the faucet assembly including a flow sensor in electronic communication with the controller.

[0402] For illustrative purposes, the above description has been presented with reference to specific embodiments. However, the exemplary discussion above is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the exact forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the foregoing teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the technology and its practical applications. Others skilled in the art will thus be able to make various modifications to best utilize the technology and various embodiments according to the specific application intended.

[0403] Although this disclosure and examples have been fully described with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be noted that various changes and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications should be understood to be included within the scope of this disclosure and examples as defined by the claims. Finally, the full disclosure of the patents and publications mentioned in this application is hereby incorporated by reference.

Claims

1. A hybrid assembly for a faucet component, comprising: manifold; A first motor, the first motor being coupled to a first valve core; as well as The second motor is coupled to the second valve core. The mixing component is configured to be located below the countertop surface, and the faucet assembly is configured to be mounted on the countertop surface. The mixing component is configured to mix hot water received from a hot water source with cold water received from a cold water source, and to deliver the mixed water to the faucet assembly.

2. The hybrid component of claim 1, wherein The first motor and the second motor are configured to communicate electronically with the faucet assembly. The first valve core is configured to receive hot water from a hot water source. The second valve core is configured to receive cold water from a cold water source. The first motor is configured to operate the first valve core to deliver hot water to the manifold. The second motor is configured to operate the second valve core to deliver cold water to the manifold assembly, and The manifold is configured to deliver mixed water to the faucet assembly.

3. The mixing assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein the manifold includes a manifold base and a manifold cover, wherein the manifold cover includes a mixing chamber.

4. The hybrid assembly as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the central horizontal axis of the first valve core and the central horizontal axis of the second valve core are perpendicular to the central axis of the manifold cap.

5. The hybrid assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein the hybrid assembly includes a controller configured to communicate electronically with the sensor of the faucet assembly. in, When in automatic mode The controller is configured to receive electronic signals from the sensor. The controller is configured to instruct the first motor to operate the first valve core to open or close to adjust the amount of hot water delivered to the manifold, and The controller is configured to instruct the second motor to operate the second valve core to open or close in order to adjust the amount of cold water delivered to the manifold.

6. The mixing assembly of claim 5, wherein the controller is associated with a manual temperature control, and wherein in the automatic mode, the mixed water at a certain temperature is delivered according to the setting of the manual temperature control.

7. The hybrid assembly as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the hybrid assembly is configured to operate in manual mode, in automatic mode, or in both manual and automatic modes by actuating the faucet handle of the faucet assembly, wherein the presence of a user is detected by a sensor of the faucet assembly.

8. The hybrid component of claim 7, wherein the hybrid component is configured to operate in the manual mode and the automatic mode, wherein the automatic mode is disabled during operation in the manual mode.

9. The hybrid assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first motor is coupled to the first valve core via a first gear assembly, and the second motor is coupled to the second valve core via a second gear assembly.

10. The hybrid component as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein The first valve core includes a first valve stem. The second valve core includes a second valve stem. The first motor is configured to rotate the first valve stem to open and close the first valve spool, and The second motor is configured to rotate the second valve stem to open and close the second valve core.

11. The hybrid component of claim 10, wherein The first gear assembly includes a small bevel gear coupled to the first motor and a spur bevel gear meshing with the small bevel gear and coupled to the first valve stem. Furthermore, the second gear assembly includes a small bevel gear coupled to the second motor and a spur bevel gear meshing with the small bevel gear and coupled to the second valve stem.

12. A faucet assembly, comprising: Faucet body; A faucet handle configured to control both the amount and temperature of water leaving the faucet body. as well as Hybrid component, wherein the hybrid component includes: manifold; A first electric motor, the first electric motor being coupled to a first valve core; and A second electric motor, which is coupled to a second valve core. in The mixing component is configured to be located below the countertop surface, and the faucet assembly is configured to be mounted on the countertop surface. The mixing component is configured to mix hot water received from a hot water source with cold water received from a cold water source, and to deliver the mixed water to the faucet assembly.

13. The faucet assembly of claim 12, wherein the faucet body is a kitchen faucet or an integrated faucet.

14. The faucet assembly of claim 12 or 13, wherein the faucet handle is a lever handle, a rotary handle, or a paddle handle.

15. The faucet assembly of claim 12 or 13, wherein the faucet assembly includes a controller configured to electronically communicate with the faucet handle of the faucet assembly. in, In manual mode The controller is configured to receive electronic signals from the faucet handle. The controller is configured to instruct the first motor to operate the first valve core to open or close to adjust the amount of hot water delivered to the manifold, and The controller is configured to instruct the second motor to operate the second valve core to open or close in order to adjust the amount of cold water delivered to the manifold.

16. The faucet assembly of claim 15, wherein the faucet handle includes an electronic position sensor configured to communicate electronically with the controller, wherein the controller is configured to receive a handle position signal from the electronic position sensor and to instruct the first motor and the second motor based on the handle position.

17. The faucet assembly of claim 12 or 13, wherein the faucet assembly is configured to operate in a manual mode or in an automatic mode by operating the faucet handle of the faucet assembly, wherein the presence of a user is detected by a sensor of the faucet assembly, or in both the manual mode and the automatic mode.

18. The faucet assembly of claim 17, wherein the faucet handle is configured to remain in a handle position indicating a water temperature setting when the water flow is turned off or kept off in manual mode or when the water flow is turned on or off in automatic mode.

19. The faucet assembly of claim 18, wherein in the manual mode, when the user first touches, pushes, or clicks the faucet handle, the mixed water at a certain temperature is delivered according to the water temperature setting of the faucet handle.

20. The faucet assembly of claim 18 or 19, wherein in the manual mode, when the user touches, pushes, or clicks the faucet handle for the second time, the delivery of the mixed water is shut off while the temperature setting of the faucet handle is maintained.

21. The faucet assembly of claim 18, wherein in the automatic mode, when the water flow is turned on, when the sensor detects the presence of the user, the mixed water at a certain temperature is delivered according to the water temperature setting of the faucet handle.

22. The faucet assembly of claim 21, wherein the controller is configured to determine a preferred water temperature based on the handle position setting and to instruct one or both of the first motor and the second motor to operate a corresponding valve core according to the determined water temperature.

23. The faucet assembly of claim 22, wherein the controller is configured to instruct one or both of the first motor and the second motor according to the determined water temperature setting when the water flow is turned off or kept off.

24. The faucet assembly of claim 22, wherein the controller instructs one or both of the first motor and the second motor according to the determined water temperature setting when the water flow is turned on.

25. A faucet assembly, comprising: Faucet body; A first faucet handle, configured to control the amount of hot water leaving the faucet body; A second faucet handle, configured to control the amount of cold water leaving the faucet body; as well as Hybrid component, wherein the hybrid component includes: manifold; A first electric motor, the first electric motor being coupled to a first valve core; and A second electric motor, which is coupled to a second valve core. in The mixing component is configured to be located below the countertop surface, and the faucet assembly is configured to be mounted on the countertop surface. The mixing component is configured to mix hot water received from a hot water source with cold water received from a cold water source, and to deliver the mixed water to the faucet assembly.

26. The faucet assembly of claim 25, wherein the first faucet handle and the second faucet handle are lever handles, rotary handles, or paddle handles.

27. The faucet assembly of claim 25 or 26, wherein the faucet assembly includes a controller configured to electronically communicate with a first faucet handle and a second faucet handle of the faucet assembly. in, When in manual mode The controller is configured to receive electronic signals from one or both of the first faucet handle or the second faucet handle. The controller is configured to instruct the first motor to operate the first valve core to open or close to adjust the amount of hot water delivered to the manifold, and The controller is configured to instruct the second motor to operate the second valve core to open or close in order to adjust the amount of cold water delivered to the manifold.

28. The faucet assembly of claim 27, wherein one or both of the first faucet handle or the second faucet handle include an electronic position sensor configured to communicate electronically with the controller, wherein the controller is configured to receive a handle position signal from the electronic position sensor and to instruct the first motor and the second motor based on the handle position.

29. The faucet assembly of claim 25 or 26, wherein the faucet assembly is configured to operate in manual mode or in automatic mode by actuating one or more of the first faucet handle or the second faucet handle of the faucet assembly, wherein the presence of a user is detected by a sensor of the faucet assembly, or in both manual mode and automatic mode.

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