Cascade sprayer system

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a waterfall spout system configured to integrate both a conventional faucet and a waterfall spout into a consumer faucet system that complies with regulatory requirements. The waterfall spout system integrates a diverter and / or a controller that ensures a smooth transition between the faucet fixture and the waterfall spout and prevents water from flowing back into the water supply. The waterfall spout system can also include an ozone generator configured to generate ozonated air. The ozonated air from the ozone generator can be injected into water at a venturi assembly to produce ozonated water. The ozonated water can flow from the venturi assembly to the waterfall spout for a spouting operation.

Description

Cross-reference to related applications

[0001] This disclosure claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 734,563, filed on December 16, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure generally pertains to the field of consumer plumbing systems, and more specifically to faucet systems with integrated waterfall features. Background Technology

[0003] Consumer faucet systems have evolved to include traditional faucet fixtures paired with at least one complex accessory. These accessories can include fixtures for rinsing glasses or bottles, water dispensers, and "waterfall" sprayers. These options are not only aesthetically pleasing but also provide an effective water source option in addition to traditional faucet fixtures.

[0004] Adding accessories to traditional faucet systems presents challenges. Typically, these accessories are connected to the same water source as the faucet fixture via piping. Plumbing compliance regulations may require faucet systems with multiple outlets to be configured to connect to a single water source via piping, preventing the faucet fixture and any accessories from simultaneously supplying water. Additionally, certain piping components are needed to prevent contaminated water from flowing back into the water supply system.

[0005] There is a current need for a waterfall sprinkler system that integrates new accessories with traditional faucet fixtures while also ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Examples of this disclosure relate to faucet systems including conventional faucet fixtures and at least one waterfall sprinkler, and related methods of operation. The waterfall sprinkler systems disclosed herein may include a diverter, a controller, or both. In examples including a diverter, the diverter manages the water flow from the water supply to the faucet fixture or the waterfall sprinkler, but not to either. In other examples, the diverter manages the water flow from the water supply to the faucet fixture, the waterfall sprinkler, or both. In examples including a controller, the controller includes a vacuum circuit breaker, wherein the vacuum circuit breaker prevents water from flowing back from the waterfall sprinkler (or other accessory fixture) to the water supply line.

[0007] In some examples, a waterfall sprinkler system may include a waterfall sprinkler, a Venturi assembly in fluid communication with the waterfall sprinkler, an ozone generator configured to generate ozonating air, and a deflector configured to redirect water from a water supply to the Venturi assembly. Ozone-generated air from the ozone generator can be injected into the water from the water supply at the Venturi assembly to produce ozone water. The waterfall sprinkler may be configured to disperse the ozone water. Attached Figure Description

[0008] This disclosure can be understood more fully in light of the following detailed description of examples of the disclosure in relation to the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a waterfall sprinkler system according to an example of this disclosure; Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a waterfall sprinkler system according to an example of this disclosure; Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a multi-accessory water tank including a waterfall sprinkler, according to an example of this disclosure; Figure 4 This is a perspective view of a self-embedded water tank with multiple attachments, including a waterfall sprinkler and accessories, according to an example of this disclosure; Figure 5 This is a perspective view of a multi-accessory undermount sink including a waterfall sprinkler and accessories, according to an example of this disclosure; Figure 6 This is a perspective view of a waterfall sprinkler according to an example of this disclosure; Figure 7 This is a perspective view of a waterfall sprinkler system with a venturi component according to an example of this disclosure; and Figure 8 This is a diagram of a waterfall sprinkler system according to an example of this disclosure.

[0009] While various examples can be modified and substituted in various ways, their specific details have been shown by way of example in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail. However, it should be understood that the invention is not intended to limit the claimed disclosure to the specific examples described. Rather, it is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions within the spirit and scope of the subject matter as defined by the claims. Detailed Implementation

[0010] General Reference Figure 1The waterfall sprinkler system 100 may include a sink 102, a faucet holder 104, a diverter 108, a waterfall sprinkler 106, and a sprinkler valve / controller 116. The waterfall sprinkler 106, faucet holder 104, and sprinkler valve 116 may be attached to the sink 102. The diverter 108 may receive water flow from a water supply device 110, which includes a hot water supply device 111 and a cold water supply device 113. The diverter 108 may be fluidly connected to the faucet holder 104 via a faucet line 114 including hot and cold water supplies, and fluidly connected to the waterfall sprinkler 106 via a sprinkler line 112 including hot and cold water supplies. The hot and cold water supplies at each of the faucet holder 104 and the waterfall sprinkler 106 may be mixed via a valve cylinder (not shown) incorporated therein.

[0011] The faucet retainer 104 may have at least two operable positions: an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the faucet retainer receives water flow from the faucet line 114 through an opening in a first end of the faucet retainer 104, directs the water flow through an internal channel of the faucet retainer 104, and sprays water from an opening in a second end of the faucet retainer 104. In the closed position, no water flow is directed into the faucet retainer 104. The faucet retainer 104 may be configured to have continuous, retractable operable positions, allowing the water flow to be slightly increased and decreased between a minimum flow rate and a maximum flow rate. Similarly, the waterfall sprayer 106 may have at least two operable positions: an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the waterfall sprayer 106 receives water flow from the sprayer line 112 through an opening in a first end of the waterfall sprayer 106, directs the water flow through at least one internal channel of the waterfall sprayer 106, and sprays water from at least one opening in a second end of the waterfall sprayer 106. In the closed position, no water flow is directed into the waterfall sprinkler 106. The waterfall sprinkler 106 can be configured to have continuous, retractable operable positions, allowing the water flow to be slightly increased or decreased between a minimum flow rate and a maximum flow rate.

[0012] The waterfall sprinkler 106 and faucet holder 104 can be configured to direct water generally into the sink basin 102. The waterfall sprinkler 106 and faucet holder 104 can also be configured to direct water into a specific portion of the sink basin 102. The waterfall sprinkler 106 can also be configured to direct water in a waterfall pattern. In this example, the waterfall sprinkler 106 may include multiple outlet openings such that when the waterfall sprinkler 106 is in the open position and receives water flow from the sprinkler line 112, the waterfall sprinkler 106 releases water in a waterfall pattern.

[0013] The diverter 108 can be configured to supply water from the water supply unit 110 to either the faucet line 114 or the shower line 112, but not to either. For example, the diverter 108 is configured such that when the faucet fixture 104 is in the open position and water is being directed into the sink 102, no water can be directed through the waterfall shower 106 even if it is in the open, operable position. In this example, the diverter 108 may include a pressure valve such that the diverter 108 may direct water from the water supply unit 110 to the faucet line 114 only if the shower line 112 has sufficiently high pressure. Similarly, in such an example, the diverter 108 may direct water from the water supply unit 110 to the shower line 112 only if the faucet line 114 has sufficiently high pressure. The water supply unit 110 may include untreated water, hot water, or both from the environment. The faucet holder 104 and the sprinkler valve 116 can be configured to allow a user to selectively change the temperature of the water supply unit 110 via a control handle 105 located on or near the faucet 104 or via the sprinkler valve / controller 116.

[0014] The sprayer valve / controller 116 allows the user to open and close the waterfall sprayer 106. The sprayer valve / controller 116 may further include an integrated vacuum circuit breaker. In the example, the sprayer valve / controller 116 is mounted above the platform of the sink basin 102 such that the integrated vacuum circuit breaker is at least 1" above the platform of the sink basin 102. The integrated vacuum circuit breaker is configured to prevent water from flowing back from the waterfall sprayer 106 into the sprayer line 112.

[0015] In another example, the waterfall sprinkler system 200 may include a sink 202, a faucet holder 204, a beverage holder 206, a waterfall sprinkler 224, a sprinkler controller 228, a hot water diverter 218, and a cold water or ambient water diverter 210. The faucet holder 204, beverage holder 206, and waterfall sprinkler 224 may be attached to the sink 202. In some examples, the waterfall sprinkler system 200 further includes a water manifold 212 configured to manage the flow of water into the waterfall sprinkler system 200 from a hot water supply 216 and an ambient water supply 214. In one example, the beverage holder 206 may be a beverage faucet fluidly connected to a filter assembly (not shown) for dispensing filtered water from the filter assembly. Additional treatment components may be incorporated to dispense treated water (e.g., carbonated water or soda water).

[0016] In this example, hot water diverter 218 receives hot water flow from hot water supply device 216. Hot water diverter 218 is configured to direct the hot water flow to spray controller 228 via sprayer hot water line 220 and to faucet fixture 204 via faucet hot water line 219. Ambient water diverter 210 receives ambient water flow from ambient water or cold water supply device 214. Ambient water diverter 210 is configured to direct ambient water flow to beverage fixture 206 via beverage ambient water line 206, to faucet fixture 204 via faucet ambient water line 209, and to spray controller 216 via sprayer ambient water line 222.

[0017] In this example, the beverage holder 206, the faucet holder 204, and the waterfall sprayer 224 can be operated independently or all three can be operated simultaneously.

[0018] The sprinkler controller 228 may include an integrated vacuum circuit breaker. In the example, the sprinkler controller 228 is mounted above the platform of the sink 202 such that the integrated vacuum circuit breaker is at least 1" above the platform of the sink 202. The sprinkler controller 228 may be fluidly connected to the waterfall sprinkler 224 via a connection line 226. The integrated vacuum circuit breaker is configured to prevent water from flowing back from the waterfall sprinkler 224 into the sprinkler hot water line 220 and the sprinkler ambient water line 222.

[0019] In the example, faucet fixture 204 can receive hot and cold water from water supply units 216 and 214 via lines 219 and 209, respectively. In lines 219 and 209, the hot and cold water can be mixed (e.g., by rotating or otherwise moving handle 217 to various positions to reach a desired temperature) via a mixing drum (not shown) integrated into faucet fixture 204 and controlled by the user. Similarly, controller 228 can receive hot and cold water from water supply units 216 and 214 via lines 220 and 222, respectively. In lines 220 and 222, the hot and cold water can be mixed (e.g., by rotating or otherwise moving to various positions to reach a desired temperature) via a mixing drum (not shown) integrated into controller 228 and controlled by the user. The mixed water is then supplied to shower 224 via line 226.

[0020] In another example, the multi-accessory sink system 300 includes a sink basin 304, a faucet fixture 302, a rinsing fixture 308, a rinsing fixture controller 306, a first waterfall shower 314, a second waterfall shower 342, and a shower controller 340. The shower controller 340 can be fluidly connected to a diverter 334 via an output line 338. The diverter 334 can be fluidly connected to the first waterfall shower 314 and the second waterfall shower 342 via a first diverter line 330 and a second diverter line 336, respectively. In some examples, the multi-accessory sink system 300 further includes a water manifold 320 configured to manage the flow of water through the system 300.

[0021] The multi-accessory sink system 300 can be configured to receive water flow from a hot water supply unit 324 and an ambient water supply unit 322. The hot water supply unit 324 can direct the hot water flow to a hot water diverter 326. The hot water diverter 326 can respectively direct the hot water flow to a sprayer controller 340, a faucet 302, and a flushing fixture controller 306 via a sprayer hot water line 328, a faucet hot water line 327, and a flushing hot water line 312. The ambient water or cold water supply unit 322 can direct the water flow to an ambient water or cold water diverter 318. The ambient water diverter 318 can direct ambient water flow to the sprayer controller 340 via the sprayer ambient water line 332, to the faucet fixture 302 via the faucet ambient water line 315, and to the flushing fixture controller 306 via the flushing ambient water line 316.

[0022] In the example, faucet fixture 302 can receive hot and cold water from water supply devices 324 and 322 via lines 327 and 315, respectively. In lines 327 and 315, the hot and cold water can be mixed (e.g., by rotating or otherwise moving handle 319 to various positions to reach a desired temperature) via a mixing drum (not shown) integrated into faucet fixture 302 and controlled by the user. Similarly, shower controller 340 can receive hot and cold water from water supply devices 324 and 322 via lines 328 and 332, respectively. In lines 328 and 332, the hot and cold water can be mixed (e.g., by rotating or otherwise moving to various positions to reach a desired temperature) via a mixing drum (not shown) integrated into shower controller 340 and controlled by the user. The mixed water is then supplied to diverter 334 via line 338. Similarly, the flush fixture controller 306 can receive hot and cold water from water supply devices 324 and 322 respectively via lines 312 and 316, in which the hot and cold water can be mixed (e.g., by rotating or otherwise moving in various positions to reach a desired temperature) via a mixing cylinder (not shown) incorporated into the flush fixture controller 306 and controlled by the user. The mixed water is then supplied to the flush fixture 308 via line 310.

[0023] In the example, the rinsing fixture 308 may include a glass rinser (e.g., those described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2025 / 0326013 and U.S. Application No. 19 / 266,855, filed July 11, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference).

[0024] The sprinkler controller 340 may include an integrated vacuum circuit breaker, as described above. Similarly, the flush fixture controller 306 may include an additional integrated vacuum circuit breaker. Both integrated vacuum circuit breakers are configured to prevent water from flowing back from the first waterfall sprinkler 314, the second waterfall sprinkler 342, or the flush fixture 308 into any of the aforementioned water lines. The sprinkler controller 340 and the flush fixture controller 306 may be integrated into the sink basin 306 such that the integrated vacuum controller is at least one inch (1″) above the platform of the sink basin 304.

[0025] The diverter 334 can be configured to direct water into either the first diverter line 336 or the second diverter line 330, but not both simultaneously. For example, the diverter 334 may include a pressure valve. The pressure valve prevents the diverter 334 from directing water through the first diverter line 330 unless the back pressure of the second diverter line 336 is sufficiently high. When the second waterfall sprinkler 342 is in the closed configuration, the back pressure of the second diverter 336 is high enough that the diverter 334 can direct water flow into the first diverter line 330. If the diverter 334 directs water flow to the second waterfall sprinkler 342 and the second waterfall sprinkler 342 is in the open configuration, then even if the first waterfall sprinkler 314 is in the open configuration, the pressure valve of the diverter 334 prevents the diverter 334 from directing water through the first diverter line 330 to the first waterfall sprinkler 314.

[0026] In the example, faucet fixture 302 can receive hot and cold water from water supply units 216 and 214 via lines 219 and 209, respectively. In water supply units 216 and 214, the hot and cold water can be mixed via a mixing drum (not shown) integrated into faucet fixture 204 and controlled by the user (e.g., by rotating or otherwise moving handle 217 to various positions to reach a desired temperature). Similarly, controller 228 can receive hot and cold water from water supply units 216 and 214 via lines 220 and 222, respectively. In lines 220 and 222, the hot and cold water can be mixed via a mixing drum (not shown) integrated into controller 228 and controlled by the user (e.g., by rotating or otherwise moving to various positions to reach a desired temperature). The mixed water is then supplied to shower 224 via line 226.

[0027] In this example, the faucet holder 302, the flushing holder 308, and the waterfall showers 314 and 342 can operate independently, or the faucet holder 302 and the flushing holder 308 can operate simultaneously with only one of the waterfall showers 314 and 342. In other examples, all these components can operate simultaneously.

[0028] In the examples, the waterfall sprayers 314 and 342 may have the same or different configurations. For example, sprayer 314 may include multiple jets or a single elongated jet spraying water at a first speed and / or in a first mode, while sprayer 342 may include multiple jets or a single elongated jet spraying water at a second speed and / or in a second mode greater than or less than that of sprayer 314. For example, sprayer 314 may introduce a spray for spraying delicate items (e.g., berries, vegetables, or fruits), while sprayer 342 may introduce a higher speed spray for cleaning plates, cutlery, jars, pans, and the like. In other examples, sprayers 314 and 342 are identical.

[0029] Now for reference Figures 4 to 6 The waterfall sink system can include any of a variety of sinks (e.g., self-rimmed sinks, undermount sinks, stainless steel sinks, ceramic sinks, single-basin sinks, or multi-basin sinks, and the like). Further, the sink can include any of a variety of accessories, including cutting boards, filters, baskets, knife holders, etc., which are mounted within the sink, for example, via floating or stepped brackets. The sink can include a variety of interchangeable fasteners, such as faucet fasteners, beverage or filtered water fasteners, soap dispensers, glass rinsers, and the like. The sink basin can include one or more waterfall sprayers on one or more side walls of the basin. The waterfall sprayers can include various fixed or oscillating nozzles or jets. The waterfall sprayers can be controlled by a sprayer controller mounted above a platform, and the sprayer controller can include an integrated vacuum circuit breaker as described above.

[0030] Figure 4 A waterfall sink system 400 comprising a single basin sink 401 is depicted. A waterfall sprinkler 402 is integrated into a first side wall of the sink 401. The sink system 400 may include a faucet fixture 406, a beverage faucet 404, and accessories 408, 410, which in this example are depicted as a cutting board 408 and a strainer basket 410, which can be mounted within the sink 401 via a bracket 414 (stepped or floating), the bracket 414 being formed along the side wall at one or more heights. In this example, the bracket 414 is located at different heights from the bottom of the basin so that the accessories 408, 410 are staggered, and the cutting board 408 is flush with the top surface of the mounting platform, while the strainer basket 410 is located below the top surface of the mounting platform to allow water to drain into the sink 401. In this example, sink 401 is a self-edging sink (e.g., the self-edging sink is mounted above a platform and includes a flange or edge flush with the top surface of the mounting platform).

[0031] In this example, the waterfall sprinkler 402 is integrated into the wall of the sink 401 on the same side as the faucet fixture 406; however, it is conceivable that the waterfall sprinkler 402 could be integrated into any wall of the sink, or that additional waterfall sprinklers could be included on one or more walls. The waterfall sprinkler 402 can be controlled by a sprinkler controller 412 mounted above a platform, and the sprinkler controller 412 may include an integrated vacuum circuit breaker. The sprinkler controller 412 can be mechanically activated (e.g., by rotation or pushing, or it can be contactless or remotely activated).

[0032] Figure 5 A waterfall sink system 500 is depicted, comprising a single basin sink 501. A waterfall sprinkler 502 is integrated into a first sidewall of the sink 501. The sink system 500 may include a faucet fixture 506, a glass rinser 504, and accessories 508, 510, which in this example are depicted as a cutting board 508 and various-sized strainer baskets 510, which may be mounted within the sink 501 via a bracket 514 (stepped or floating), the bracket 514 being formed along the sidewall at one or more heights, as described above regarding system 400. In this example, the sink 501 is an undermount sink (e.g., the undermount sink is mounted below a platform and includes a flange or edge (not shown) flush with and mounted to the bottom surface of the mounting platform).

[0033] In this example, the waterfall sprinkler 502 is integrated into the wall of the sink 501 on the same side as the faucet fixture 506; however, it is conceivable that the waterfall sprinkler 502 could be integrated into any wall of the sink, or that additional waterfall sprinklers could be included on one or more walls. The waterfall sprinkler 502 can be controlled by a sprinkler controller 512 mounted above a platform, and the sprinkler controller 512 may include an integrated vacuum circuit breaker. The sprinkler controller 512 can be mechanically activated (e.g., by rotation or pushing, or it can be contactless or remotely activated).

[0034] Now for reference Figure 6A waterfall-style sprayer 600 typically includes multiple nozzles or jets 502 in fluid communication with a water supply device (not shown), and the nozzles may be oscillating or fixed. In one example, the nozzles 502 may operate independently to impart various spray flows. For example, the first row may be opened while the second row is closed for a softer spray, or all may be opened for a stronger spray. In other examples, all nozzles may be operated simultaneously (e.g., opened / closed as a whole). In some examples, soap, ozone, antibacterial agents, detergents, or other treatment agents may be introduced into the water before being dispersed through the nozzles 502. In another example (not shown), an alternative to the nozzles 502 may be a single elongated opening or jet for distributing the fluid.

[0035] Now for reference Figure 7 This description illustrates a waterfall sprinkler system 600, according to an example of the present disclosure, connectable to a water tank 601. The waterfall sprinkler system 600 may include a waterfall sprinkler 602 integrated onto or with a first sidewall 601a of the water tank 601. In some examples, the waterfall sprinkler 602 may include at least one, and preferably multiple, nozzles or jets 604 in fluid communication with a water supply device (not shown). In some examples, the nozzles or jets 604 may be configured to oscillate, or in other examples may be fixed. In some examples, the nozzles or jets 604 may operate independently to impart various spray flows. For example, a first row of nozzles or jets 604 may be opened while a second row of nozzles or jets 604 may be closed for a softer spray, or all nozzles or jets 604 may be opened for a stronger spray. In other examples, each nozzle or jet 604 can operate simultaneously (e.g., open or close as a whole).

[0036] The waterfall sprinkler system 600 may further include a Venturi assembly 610 or be connectable to a Venturi assembly 610. The Venturi assembly 610 may be in fluid communication with both the waterfall sprinkler 602 and the water supply device. This fluid communication allows water to be directed from the water supply device through the Venturi assembly 610 to the waterfall sprinkler 602. In most examples, the Venturi assembly 610 may be positioned intermediately between the waterfall sprinkler 602 and the water supply device to achieve seamless water distribution to the waterfall sprinkler 602.

[0037] The Venturi assembly 610 may include a molded conduit 612 having fittings or tubes 614 that can be coupled to each end of the conduit 612. The molded conduit 612 may include a plurality of interconnected internal passages 613 providing fluid communication between the water supply device and the waterfall sprinkler 602. In most examples, the plurality of interconnected internal passages 613 may be directly coupled or integrally formed together. In some examples, the passages 613 may have a cylindrical or substantially cylindrical geometry, or in other examples, another geometry (e.g., spherical or cubic). In some examples, the passages 613 may include four passages 613a to 613d connected between a first end near the water supply device and a second end near the waterfall sprinkler 602.

[0038] In such an example, the first passage 613a may be located near the water supply device at the end of the first conduit. The first passage 613a may be sized to receive the first fitting or tube 614 at the end of the first conduit. The first passage 613a may extend along axis A1 until it reaches the second passage 613b. Compared to the first passage 613a, the second passage 613b may have a smaller diameter or width and may typically be formed at a corner or outer edge of the molded conduit 612. The second passage 613b may extend along axis A1 from one end of the first passage 613a. The second passage 613b may have a diameter or width extending along axis A2. In some examples, axis A2 may be orthogonal or approximately orthogonal to axis A1. The second passage 613b may extend along axis A2 until it reaches the third passage 613c.

[0039] Compared to the first passage 613a and the second passage 613b, the third passage 613c may have a smaller diameter or width. The third passage 613c may extend along axis A2 until it reaches the fourth passage 613d. In some examples, the fourth passage 613d may have a smaller diameter or width than the first passage 613a but larger than the second passage 613b and the third passage 613c. The fourth passage 613d may extend along axis A2 until it reaches the waterfall sprayer 602 at the end of the second conduit. This allows fluid communication between the water supply device, passages 613a to 613d, and the waterfall sprayer 602. The fourth passage 613d may be sized to be at least partially surrounded by the second fitting or cylinder 614 at the end of the second conduit. This arrangement of passages 613... Figure 7 The example is shown below.

[0040] The fitting or cylinder 614 may include a chuck 615a extending between a first end and a second end, an O-ring 615b near the second end, and a body 615c arranged around the chuck 615a. In use, the first fitting or cylinder 614 may be received within a first passage 613a, and the second fitting or cylinder 614 may at least partially surround a fourth passage 613d. For the first fitting or cylinder 614, the chuck 615a may include a hollow channel that may taper at least slightly between the first chuck end and the second chuck end. The first chuck end is generally positioned outside the first passage 613a, while the second chuck end is generally positioned within the first passage 613a. The O-ring 615b may be positioned within the first passage 613a, near the second chuck end. In some examples, the O-ring 615b may be positioned between the second chuck end and a wall defined by the first passage 613a. This allows the O-ring 615b to make direct and close contact with the chuck 615a and the first passage 613a. The body 615c can be received within the first passage 613a and arranged between the first chuck end and the second chuck end, surrounding a portion of the chuck 615a positioned in the first passage 613a. The body 615c is generally positioned to make direct and close contact with both the outer surface of the chuck 615a and the inner surface of the first passage 613a.

[0041] For the second fitting or cylinder 614, the second end of the clamp 615a may be close to the waterfall sprayer 602, while the first clamp end may be away from the waterfall sprayer 602. The clamp 615a may at least partially surround the fourth passage 613d along its length. The O-ring 615b may be positioned against a portion of the waterfall sprayer 602 near the second clamp end. The body 615c may be positioned in direct and close contact with the outer surface of the clamp 615a and the inner surface of a portion of the waterfall sprayer 602. When used together, the first fitting or cylinder 614 and the second fitting or cylinder 614 may achieve a push-in connection between the water supply device and the first end of the molded conduit 612 via the first fitting or cylinder 614, and a push-in connection between the waterfall sprayer 602 and the second end of the molded conduit 612 via the second fitting or cylinder 614. This enables seamless fluid communication between the water supply unit, the venturi assembly 610, and the waterfall sprinkler 602 during operation of the waterfall sprinkler system 600.

[0042] In some examples, the Venturi component 610 may be made at least partially of one or more metals, polymers, ceramics, or composites thereof. For example, the molded conduit 612 may include one or more metallic materials, while each fitting or tube 614 may include one or more polymeric materials. Suitable metallic materials include, but are not limited to, steel, cast iron, copper, brass, and aluminum. Suitable polymeric materials include, but are not limited to, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). The Venturi component 610 may be manufactured using one or more suitable subtractive or additive manufacturing processes as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0043] Now for reference Figure 8 The waterfall spray system 600 may further include or be coupled to an ozone generator 622 stored within a manifold or housing 620. The ozone generator 622 may be configured to ozonate atmospheric air received from the surrounding environment or an air supply. The ozonated air can then be injected into water flowing through the venturi component 610 to form ozone water for use in the waterfall sprayer 602. The ozone water can be used by the waterfall sprayer 602 for various purification and disinfection purposes. For example, ozone water can be used as a natural cleaning agent for washing fruits, vegetables, and surfaces in or around sinks. Ozonation can also be used to remove bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms from water before it is consumed by humans or animals or before it is used for various cleaning or sanitation purposes.

[0044] Ozone generator 622 may include a first inlet port 624 configured to receive atmospheric air from the surrounding environment or from an air supply (e.g., an external air source). The atmosphere can be ozonated using one or more charges generated by ozone generator 622 through various methods (e.g., corona discharge or ultraviolet light application). The ozonated air can then be dispersed from ozone generator 622 via a second outlet 626. The second outlet port 626 may be connected via a tube or conduit to one or more check valves 628, typically located within a manifold or housing 620. The check valves 628 may be configured to control the release of ozonated air exiting the manifold or housing 620.

[0045] In some examples, the waterfall sprinkler system 600 may include pipes or conduits 632 that are connected at a first end to a check valve 628 and at a second end to a venturi assembly 610. The pipes or conduits 632 provide a pathway for ozonating air to flow from the check valve 628 via an ozone generator 622 to the venturi assembly 610. The waterfall sprinkler system 600 may further include pipes or conduits 634 for delivering water from a water supply to the venturi assembly 610. In some examples, cold water may be received from a solenoid valve body that can be connected to or received within a manifold or housing 620. In some examples, the waterfall sprinkler system 600 may include a diverter configured to divert water from the water supply to the venturi assembly 610 and optionally to other sink or faucet components (e.g., a direct-jet venturi assembly).

[0046] In operation, ozonated air from ozone generator 622 can be injected with water from a water supply or otherwise mixed with water from a water supply at venturi assembly 610 to produce ozone water. For example, water flowing through passage 613 of molded conduit 612 can create a vacuum that draws ozonated air into the water, thereby forming ozone water. Ozone water can flow from venturi assembly 610 to waterfall sprayer 602 and be dispersed according to the spraying techniques described herein (e.g., ozone water can be sprayed from one or more nozzles or jets 604 defined by waterfall sprayer 602).

[0047] The waterfall spray system 600 disclosed herein can integrate a waterfall sprayer 602 with a tank sidewall 601a for efficient water spraying operation. The waterfall spray system 600 may include a Venturi assembly 610 with a molded conduit 612 having an internal passage 613 and fittings or tubes 614 interconnecting the water supply and the waterfall sprayer 602. The waterfall spray system 600 may further include an ozone generator 622, typically located within a manifold or housing 620. The ozone generator 622 can be configured to generate ozonated air via various methods, such as corona discharge or ultraviolet light application. The ozonated air from the ozone generator 622 can be injected into water from the water supply at the Venturi assembly 610 to produce ozone water. The ozone water can then be dispersed from the venturi component 610 into the waterfall sprayer 602 for various spraying operations (e.g., cleaning, purification, disinfection).

[0048] This disclosure may be implemented in other specific forms without departing from its essential characteristics. Therefore, the examples shown should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects.

[0049] This document has described various examples of systems, devices, and methods. These examples are given by way of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed disclosure. Furthermore, it should be understood that the various features of the described examples can be combined in various ways to produce many additional examples. Moreover, while various materials, sizes, shapes, configurations, and locations have been described for use in the disclosed examples, other materials may be utilized without exceeding the scope of the disclosure herein.

[0050] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the subject matter of this invention may include fewer features than those described in any single example above. The examples described herein are not intended to be an exhaustive list of ways in which various features of the subject matter can be combined. Therefore, these examples are not mutually exclusive combinations of features; rather, the various examples may include combinations of different individual features selected from different individual examples, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, an element described in one example may be implemented in other examples, even if not described in those examples.

[0051] Any reference to the foregoing documents is further limited to the fact that any claims contained in the documents are not incorporated herein by reference. Any reference to the foregoing documents is further limited to the fact that any definitions provided in the documents are not incorporated herein by reference unless expressly included herein.

[0052] For the purpose of interpreting the claims, unless the specific terms “means” or “step” are used in the claims, it is expressly indicated that the provisions of 35 USC § 112(f) are not invoked.

Claims

1. A waterfall-style sprinkler system, comprising: sink basin; A waterfall-style sprinkler, which is integrated into or located on the side wall of the sink basin. Faucet; as well as A diverter configured to redirect water from a water supply device to one of the waterfall sprinkler and the faucet.

2. The waterfall sprinkler system of claim 1, wherein the diverter is configured such that water from the water supply device is supplied only to one of the faucet and the waterfall sprinkler.

3. The waterfall sprinkler system of claim 1, wherein the diverter includes a pressure valve, and wherein the diverter directs water to the faucet or the waterfall sprinkler only when the pressure in the corresponding fluid line is at or above a threshold pressure.

4. The waterfall sprinkler system of claim 1, further comprising a controller connected to the water tank, wherein the controller is configured to shift the waterfall sprinkler between an operable position and an inoperable position, wherein fluid is supplied to the waterfall sprinkler in the operable position and fluid is not supplied to the waterfall sprinkler in the inoperable position.

5. The waterfall sprinkler system of claim 4, wherein the deflector is configured such that when the faucet is in the open position and water is directed into the basin, no water is directed through the waterfall sprinkler even when the waterfall sprinkler is in the operable position.

6. The waterfall sprinkler system of claim 5, wherein the controller includes a vacuum circuit breaker configured to reduce or prevent water backflow into the fluid supply device.

7. A waterfall-style sprinkler system, comprising: sink basin; A faucet holder is attached to the sink basin; An accessory device, which is attached to the sink basin; A first waterfall-style sprinkler is attached to the water tank. A hot water diverter configured to divert hot water to the faucet, the first waterfall shower, or both. as well as A cold water deflector configured to redirect cold water to at least one of the faucet, the first waterfall sprinkler, and the accessory device.

8. The waterfall sprinkler system of claim 7, wherein the faucet includes a mixing cylinder for mixing hot and cold water supplied to the mixing cylinder, and wherein the waterfall sprinkler includes a mixing cylinder operably connected to the waterfall sprinkler for mixing hot and cold water supplied to the first waterfall sprinkler.

9. The waterfall spray system of claim 7, wherein the system further includes a filtration device located upstream of the accessory device, wherein the accessory device includes a beverage tap configured to deliver filtered cold water from the beverage tap.

10. The waterfall sprinkler system of claim 7, further comprising a sprinkler controller having an integrated vacuum circuit breaker mounted above a platform of the water tank, the sprinkler controller being in fluid communication with the first waterfall sprinkler to supply fluid to the first waterfall sprinkler.

11. The waterfall sprinkler system of claim 10, wherein the sprinkler controller includes a mixing cylinder for mixing hot water and cold water supplied to the first waterfall sprinkler.

12. The waterfall sprinkler system of claim 10, further comprising a second waterfall sprinkler attached to the water tank, wherein the sprinkler controller is in fluid communication with the second waterfall sprinkler to supply fluid to the second waterfall sprinkler.

13. The waterfall sprinkler system of claim 12, further comprising a sprinkler deflector movable between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position fluid is supplied from the sprinkler controller to the first waterfall sprinkler, and in the second position fluid is supplied from the sprinkler controller to the second waterfall sprinkler.

14. The waterfall sprinkler system of claim 7, wherein the hot water deflector and the cold water deflector are further configured to deflect hot water to the accessory device, and wherein the accessory device is a glass washer.

15. The waterfall spray system of claim 14, further comprising a flusher controller in fluid communication with the hot water diverter, the cold water diverter, and the glass flusher, wherein the flusher controller further comprises a mixing cylinder for supplying mixed hot and cold water to the glass flusher.

16. A waterfall-style sprinkler system, comprising: sink basin; A first waterfall-style sprinkler is attached to the water tank. A second waterfall-type sprinkler is fixed to the water tank. A hot water diverter configured to divert hot water to the first waterfall sprayer, the second waterfall sprayer, or both. as well as A cold water deflector configured to redirect cold water to the first waterfall sprayer, the second waterfall sprayer, or both. as well as A spray controller is installed above the platform of the water tank. The spray controller is in fluid communication with the first waterfall sprayer and the second waterfall sprayer to supply fluid to the first waterfall sprayer and the second waterfall sprayer.

17. The waterfall spray system of claim 16, wherein the spray controller includes an integrated vacuum.

18. The waterfall sprinkler system of claim 16, wherein the sprinkler controller includes a mixing cylinder configured to mix hot and cold water supplied to the first waterfall sprinkler, the second waterfall sprinkler, or both.

19. The waterfall sprinkler system of claim 16, further comprising a sprinkler deflector movable between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position fluid is supplied from the sprinkler controller to the first waterfall sprinkler, and in the second position fluid is supplied from the sprinkler controller to the second waterfall sprinkler.

20. The waterfall sprinkler system of claim 19, wherein the sprinkler deflector is movable to a position between the first position and the second position, such that fluid is supplied from the sprinkler controller to both the first waterfall sprinkler and the second waterfall sprinkler.

Images