JP5580229B2 - Passive sensors for automatic faucets and rinsing equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

An automatic toilet room flusher (100) includes a valve having a valve body (512) and, a valve member, and a controller (500). The valve body includes an inlet 112, an outlet 113, and a valve seat inside the body. The valve member (e.g., a flexible diaphragm, a piston or a fram piston) is cooperatively arranged with the valve seat. The valve member is constructed and arranged to control water flow between the inlet and the outlet. The flusher may include a passive optical sensor or an active optical sensor. The active optical sensor includes a light emitter and a light detector. The passive optical sensor includes only a light detector sensitive to ambient (room) light for providing a signal to a controller. The controller executes one or several novel algorithms.

Description

  The present invention relates to a novel optical sensor, and more particularly to a novel optical sensor for controlling the operation of an automatic faucet and a water washing apparatus, and more particularly to supplying a control signal to an electronic device used in such a faucet. The present invention relates to a new flow control sensor.

  Automatic faucets and flushers have been used for many years. The automatic faucet generally includes an optical sensor and other sensors that detect the presence of an object, and an automatic valve that discharges and stops water based on a signal from the sensor. The automatic faucet may include a mixing valve connected to a hot and cold water source to provide an appropriate mixing ratio of hot and cold water supplied after the water is activated. The use of an automatic faucet saves water and promotes good hygiene by hand washing. Similarly, the automatic flush device includes a sensor and a flush valve connected to a water source for flushing the toilet or urinal after activation. The use of automatic water washing equipment generally improves the cleanliness of public facilities.

  In an automatic faucet, a light sensor or other sensor provides a control signal, and a controller provides a signal to open a water stream upon detection of an object located within the target area. In an automatic flushing device, a light sensor or other sensor provides a control signal to the controller after the user leaves the target area. Such a system works best when the object sensor is reasonably discriminating. For example, an automatic faucet should respond to the user's hand and should not respond to a sink to which the faucet is attached or a paper towel placed in the sink. Among other ways to make the system distinguish between the two, it is known to limit the target area to exclude sink locations. However, coats and other objects may still provide false triggers for the faucet. Similarly, this can also occur in automatic flushing devices due to movement of a toilet door or something similar.

  The photosensor includes a light source (usually an infrared emitter) and a photodetector that is sensitive to the IR wavelength of the light source. In the case of a faucet, the light emitter and detector (ie, light receiver) can be attached to the spout near the faucet outlet or near the base of the spout. In the case of a flushing device, the light emitter and detector can be attached to the flushing device body or to the toilet wall. Alternatively, only optical lenses (instead of light emitters and light receivers) can be attached to those elements. The lens is coupled to one or more optical fibers that propagate light from the light source and propagate light to the photodetector. The optical fiber propagates light between the light emitter and the light receiver attached below the faucet.

  Optical sensors limit the output of the light emitter and / or the sensitivity of the light receiver to eliminate reflections from sinks, toilet walls, or other installed objects. In particular, the emitted beam should only be projected onto an effective target (usually clothing or the skin of a human hand), and the reflected beam is then detected by the receiver. This type of sensor relies on the reflectivity of the surface of the target and its light emitting / receiving capability. High reflectivity doors and walls, mirrors, high reflectivity sinks, different sink shapes, water in the sink, fabric color and rough / glossy surface, walking but not using the facility Problems often arise due to the user. Mirrors, doors, walls, and sinks are not effective targets, but at a normal angle of incidence, more energy may be reflected back to the receiver than a rough surface. Effective target reflections, such as various fabrics, vary with their color and surface finish. Some fabrics absorb and scatter most of the energy of the incident beam, which results in weak reflected light being returned to the receiver.

  Many optical sensors and other sensors are powered by batteries. Depending on the design, the light emitter (or light receiver) can consume a large amount of power, which will eventually drain the battery (or require a larger battery). The cost of battery replacement includes not only the cost of the battery but also the more important work cost, which is relatively expensive for skilled personnel.

  There remains a need for an optical sensor for use with an automatic faucet or automatic water rinsing device that can operate over long periods of time without replacing a standard battery. There remains a need for highly reliable sensors for use with automatic faucets or automatic flushing devices.

  The present invention relates to a novel optical sensor and a novel method for detecting optical radiation. The novel light sensor and the novel light detection method are used, for example, to control the operation of automatic faucets and flushing devices. The new sensors and flow control means (including electronic control circuits and valves) require a small amount of power to detect the toilet user, thus allowing for years of battery operation. Passive light sensors include photodetectors that are sensitive to ambient (room) light to control the operation of an automatic faucet or automatic flushing device.

  According to one embodiment, an optical sensor for controlling an electronic faucet or flusher valve is disposed at an optical input port location and partially positioned to define a detection field. Contains elements. The photosensor also includes a photodetector and a control circuit. The photodetector is optically coupled to the optical element and the input port and is configured to detect ambient light. The control circuit is configured to control opening and closing of the flow valve. The control circuit is also configured to receive a signal from a photodetector corresponding to the detected light.

  The control circuit is configured to periodically extract a sample from the detector. The control circuit is configured to determine whether the flow valve is open or closed based on a background level of ambient light and a current level of ambient light. The control circuit is configured to open and close the flow valve based on first detecting the arrival of the user and then detecting that the user has left. Alternatively, the control circuit is configured to open and close the flow valve based on detecting the presence of the user.

  The optical element includes an optical fiber, a lens, a pinhole, a slit, or an optical filter. The optical input port is located within the faucet vent or adjacent to the faucet vent.

  According to another embodiment, a light sensor for an electronic faucet includes an optical input port, a light detector, and a control circuit. The optical input port is arranged to receive light. The photodetector is optically coupled to the input port and configured to detect received light. The control circuit controls opening and closing of the faucet valve or the flushing device valve.

  Preferred examples of this embodiment will include one or more of the following features. The control circuit is configured to periodically extract a sample from the detector based on the amount of light detected. The control circuit is configured to adjust the sampling period based on the amount of light detected after determining whether the facility is in use. The detector is optically coupled to the input port using an optical fiber. The input port can be located in the vent of the electronic faucet. The system includes a battery for powering the electronic faucet.

  FIG. 1 illustrates an automatic faucet system 10 that is controlled by a sensor that provides a signal to a control circuit that is configured and arranged to control the operation of the automatic valve. The automatic valve controls the flow rate before or after mixing hot and cold water.

  The automatic faucet system 10 includes a faucet body 12 and a venting device 30 that includes a sensor port 34. The automatic faucet system 10 also includes a faucet base 14 and screws 16A, 16B for securing the faucet to the deck 18. The cold water pipe 20A and the hot water pipe 20B are connected to a mixing valve 22 that provides hot water and cold water with a specific mixing ratio (the mixing ratio can be changed according to the desired water temperature). A water conduit 24 connects the mixing valve 22 to a solenoid valve 38. The flow control valve 38 controls the water flow between the water conduit 24 and the water conduit 25. A water conduit 25 connects the valve 38 to a water conduit 26 partially disposed within the faucet body 12 as shown. The water conduit 26 supplies water to the aeration device 30. The automatic faucet system 10 also includes a control module 50 that is powered by a battery located in the battery chamber 39 and controls the faucet sensor and solenoid valve 38.

  Referring to FIGS. 1 and 1A, in a first preferred embodiment, the automatic faucet system 10 includes a light sensor disposed within the control module 50, which is vented by a fiber optic cable 52. Optically coupled to a sensor port 34 located within the device 30. The optical fiber cable 52 can be coupled to an optical lens disposed at the position of the sensor port 34. The optical lens is configured to have a predetermined field of view, and the field of view is preferably somewhat coaxial with the water stream within the water stream discharged from the venting device 30 when the faucet is turned on.

  Alternatively, the end of the fiber optic cable 52 is polished so that light is emitted and incident directly (ie, without an optical lens). Also in this case, the end of the optical fiber cable 52 is configured to have a field of view (for example, field of view A in FIG. 1A) that is somewhat coaxial with the water stream in the water stream discharged from the venting device 30 toward the sink 11. Alternatively, sensor port 34 includes other optical elements, such as a pinhole array or slit array having a predetermined size, arrangement, and orientation. The size, arrangement and orientation of the pinhole array or the slit array are designed to provide a predetermined detection pattern (shown in FIGS. 3 to 3D for a faucet and FIGS. 5 to 5L for a cleaning device). .

  Still referring to FIGS. 1 and 1A, the fiber optic cable 52 is preferably disposed within the water conduit 26 in contact with water. Alternatively, the fiber optic cable 52 can be placed outside the water conduit 26 and inside the faucet body 12. FIGS. 1C, 1D, and 1E illustrate an alternative manner of disposing the sensor port 34 in the venting device 30 and an optical fiber 52 coupled to the optical lens 54. FIG. . In another embodiment, the optical lens 54 is replaced with a pinhole array or slit array.

  FIG. 1B shows a second preferred embodiment of the automatic faucet system. The automatic faucet system 10A includes a faucet body 12 and a venting device 30 that includes a light sensor 37 coupled to the sensor port 35. The optical sensor 37 is electrically connected to the electronic control module 50 disposed inside the faucet body by the wiring 53. In another embodiment, the electronic control module 50 is disposed outside the faucet body adjacent to the control valve 38 (FIG. 1).

  In another embodiment, sensor port 35 receives an optical lens that is placed in front of photosensor 37 to define a detection pattern (or optical field of view). Preferably, the optical lens provides a somewhat coaxial field of view within the water stream emitted from the vent device 30 when the faucet is turned on. In yet another embodiment, sensor port 35 includes other optical elements such as pinhole arrays or slit arrays having a predetermined size, arrangement, and orientation. The size, arrangement and orientation of the pinhole array or the slit array are designed to provide a predetermined detection pattern (shown in FIGS. 3 to 3D for a faucet and FIGS. 5 to 5L for a cleaning device). .

  The optical sensor is a passive optical sensor that includes a visible or infrared light detector optically coupled to sensor port 34 or sensor port 35. There is no light source (ie, a light emitter) associated with the light sensor. Visible light or near-infrared (NIR) light detector detects light reaching sensor port 34 or sensor port 35 and provides a corresponding electrical signal to the controller located in control unit 50 or control unit 55 To do. The light detector (ie, the light receiver) can be a photodiode or a photoresistor (or any other light intensity sensing element with electrical output that has the desired optical sensitivity). . An optical sensor using a photodiode also includes an amplifier circuit. Preferably, the photodetector detects light in the range of about 400-500 nm to about 950-1000 nm. The photodetector is mainly sensitive to ambient light and is not very sensitive to body heat (for example, infrared light or far infrared light).

  2 and 2A show an alternative embodiment of an automatic faucet system. Referring to FIG. 2, the automatic faucet system 10B includes a faucet that receives water from the dual flow faucet valve 60 and provides water from the venting device 31. The automatic faucet 12 includes a mixing valve 58 that is adjusted by a handle 59, which can also be connected to an auxiliary manual device of the valve 60. The dual flow valve 60 is connected to the cold water pipe 20A and the hot water pipe 20B, and controls the water flow to each of the cold water pipe 21A and the hot water pipe 21B.

  The dual flow valve 60 is constructed and arranged to simultaneously control the water flow in both the pipes 21A and 21B when driven by a single actuator 201 (see FIG. 8A). Specifically, the valve 60 includes two flow valves configured to control the flow of hot and cold water in each water channel. A solenoid actuator 201 (FIG. 8A) is coupled to the pilot mechanism to control the two flow valves. The two flow valves are preferably diaphragm operated valves (although they can also be piston valves or high flow “fram” valves as described in connection with FIGS. 9 and 9A). The dual flow valve 60 includes a pressure release mechanism configured to change the pressure in the diaphragm chamber of each diaphragm operating valve, thereby opening and closing each diaphragm valve to control the water flow. The dual flow valve 60 is described in detail in PCT application PCT / US01 / 43277 filed on November 20, 2001.

  Still referring to FIG. 2, the faucet body 12 is coupled with a sensor port 35 for accommodating the end of the optical fiber or for accommodating the photodetector. The fiber optic cable propagates light from the sensor port 35 to the photodetector. In one preferred embodiment, the faucet body 12 includes a control module having a photodetector and controller as described with respect to FIGS. 10 and 10A. The controller provides a control signal to solenoid actuator 201 via electrical cable 56. The sensor port 35 has a detection field of view located outside the water stream discharged from the venting device 31 (shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B).

  Referring to FIG. 2A, the automatic faucet system 10C also includes a faucet body 12 that receives water from the dual flow faucet valve 60 and provides water from the venting device 31. The automatic faucet 10C also includes a mixing valve 58 that is adjusted by a handle 59. The dual flow valve 60 is connected to the cold water pipe 20A and the hot water pipe 20B, and controls the water flow to each of the cold water pipe 21A and the hot water pipe 21B.

  Sensor port 33 is coupled to faucet body 12 and is designed to have the field of view shown in FIGS. 3C and 3D. The sensor port 33 is adapted to the end of the optical fiber 56A. The beginning of the optical fiber 56A supplies light to an optical sensor disposed in the control module 55A coupled to the dual flow valve 60. The control module 55A also includes an electronic control circuit and a battery. The light sensor detects the presence of an object (for example, a hand) or detects a change (for example, movement) of the presence of an object in the sink area. The electronic control circuit controls the operation of the photodetector and the reading from the photodetector. The electronic control circuit also includes a power drive circuit that controls the operation of the solenoid associated with the valve 60. In response to the signal from the photodetector, the electronic control circuit causes the power drive circuit to open and close the solenoid valve 60 (that is, start and stop the water flow). The design and operation of the actuator 201 (FIG. 8A) is described in detail in PCT applications PCT / US02 / 38757, PCT / US02 / 38758, PCT / US02 / 41576.

  FIG. 1C shows a vertical cross section of the venting device 30A located at the discharge end of the spout 12 spout. The ventilation device 30A includes a barrel 62 that can be attached to the faucet body 12 using a screw thread 63. The barrel 62 supports a ring 64 that supports a wire mesh screen 65. Barrel 62 also includes an annular member 70, a jet forming member 72, and an upper washer 74. The jet forming member 72 includes a number of elongated slots 76 for providing a water channel. The jet forming member 72 and the screen 65 include a passage 36 for the optical fiber 52. Water flows from top to bottom through the venting device 30A. Within the venting device 30A, the water stream flows from the water conduit 26 (FIG. 1A) and is crushed by a slot 76 that is vertically elongated in the water jet forming member 72. The water then flows to the wire mesh screen 65 supported by the ring 64. The ring 64 also allows for inhalation (inhalation) through a gap 67 inside the chamber 66 (what the ring 64 forms between itself and the barrel 62). Air is mixed with water in the chamber 66 just above the wire mesh screen 65 and the air / water mixture passes through the screen 65. At the center of the above components, the optical fiber 52 is disposed inside the tubular member 36 that holds the lens 54.

  FIG. 1D shows a second embodiment of a venting device in which the port for the passive sensor is centered. In this embodiment, the venting device 30B includes at least two biconvexly arranged wire mesh members 86A, 86B that provide a central opening for the passage 88. The venting device 30B also includes an insertion member 90 that includes a plurality of holes 92 and a central hole 88 for accommodating the tubular member 52. The ventilation device 30B is attached to the faucet 12 using a screw thread 83. Water flows from the water conduit 26 to the upper chamber 91 and then through the hole 92. Air enters the chamber 93 through the hole 84. The mixture of water and air then flows through two screens 86A, 86B configured in a biconvex shape. The housing 82 has an inward support portion in the circumferential direction, and the support portion supports the two screens 86A and 86B. The optical fiber 52 extends from the top through the ventilation device 30B and through the wire mesh screens 86A and 86B into the water pipe 26 (FIG. 1A). As each water jet formed by the hole 92 enters the lower chamber 93, air is drawn into the chamber 93 through the opening 84. Water is mixed with air in the chamber 93, and the mixture is forced through the screens 86A and 86B.

1E and 1F show an alternative aspect for providing an optical field of view aligned with water flow (ie, an alternative embodiment of a venting device and a sensor port disposed therein). Yes. 1E is a perspective view of a venting device 30C used in the automatic faucet system of FIG. 1, and FIG. 1F is a cross-sectional view of the venting device 30C. The venting device 30C is coupled to the faucet body 12 and the water conduit 26 using threads 83. The optical fiber 52 is disposed outside the water conduit and is introduced through the adapter 97. Alternatively, the adapter 97 can include a photodetector coupled to the control module using an electrical cable instead of the fiber optic cable 52. (For simplicity, the wire mesh members and air openings are not shown in FIGS. 1E and 1F.)
FIG. 3 schematically shows a cross-sectional view of a first preferred detection pattern (A) for a passive optical sensor disposed in the automatic faucet 12. The detection pattern (A) relates to the sensor port 34 and is formed by a lens or an element selected from the optical elements shown in FIGS. 6 to 6E. The detection pattern A is selected to receive mainly ambient light reflected from the sink 11. Although the width of the pattern is controlled, the control of that range is much smaller (ie, the detection range is not really limited, so FIG. 3 only schematically shows pattern A).

  A user standing in front of the faucet will affect the amount of ambient (room) light that reaches the sink, and thus the amount of light that reaches the photodetector. On the other hand, a person who is simply moving in the room does not significantly affect the amount of light detected. A user putting his hand under the faucet will have a greater influence on the amount of ambient (indoor) light detected by the photodetector. For this reason, a passive optical sensor can detect a user's hand and can provide the control signal corresponding to it. Here, the detected light does not depend greatly on the reflectivity of the target surface (unlike an optical sensor that uses both a light emitter and a light receiver). After hand washing, when the user removes his hand from under the faucet, the amount of ambient light detected by the photodetector will change again. The passive light sensor then provides a corresponding control signal to the controller (described with respect to FIGS. 10, 10A, and 10B).

  3A and 3B schematically show a second preferred detection pattern (B) for a passive optical sensor disposed in the automatic faucet 10B. The detection pattern B relates to the sensor port 35, which can also be shaped by a lens or by the optical element shown in FIGS. 6 to 6E. When the user puts his hand under the faucet 10B, the amount of ambient (indoor) light detected by the photodetector changes. As described above, the detected light does not depend greatly on the reflectance of the user's hand (unlike an optical sensor that uses both a light emitter and a light receiver). For this reason, the passive optical sensor detects the user's hand and provides the controller with a corresponding control signal. 13, FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B show detection algorithms used for the detection patterns A and B. FIG.

  3C and 3D schematically show another detection pattern (C) related to the passive optical sensor disposed in the automatic faucet 10C. The detection pattern C relates to the sensor port 33, and is formed by the selected optical element. The selected optical element achieves the desired width and orientation of the detection pattern, but its range is more difficult to control. In this embodiment, a user standing in front of faucet 10C will change the amount of ambient light detected somewhat more than if the user passes through it. In this embodiment, the reflection of light from the sink 11 has a very small effect on the detected light.

  FIG. 4 is a schematic side view of a toilet including the automatic cleaning device 100, and FIG. 4A is a schematic side view of a urinal including the automatic cleaning device 100. The cleaning device 100 receives pressurized water from the supply line 112 and responds to the movement of the target in the target area 103 using a passive optical sensor. After the user leaves the target area, the controller commands the opening of the wash valve 102, which allows water flow from the supply line 112 to the wash conduit 113 and the toilet bowl 116.

  FIG. 4A shows a cleaning apparatus 100A used for the automatic flush toilet 120. FIG. The cleaning device 100A receives pressurized water from the supply line 112. The cleaning valve 102 is controlled by a passive optical sensor that responds to the movement of the target in the target area 103. After the user leaves the target area, the controller commands the opening of the wash valve 102, which allows water flow from the supply line 112 to the wash conduit 113.

  The cleaning devices 100 and 100A can have a modular design. In this case, it is possible to replace the battery or the electronic module by partially opening their covers. Such a modular design cleaning device is described in US patent application Ser. No. 60 / 448,995 filed Feb. 20, 2003.

  5 and 5A are a schematic side view and a plan view of a light detection pattern used by the passive light sensor disposed in the automatic toilet cleaning apparatus of FIG. This detection pattern relates to the sensor port 108 and is shaped by a lens or by an element selected from the optical elements shown in FIGS. The pattern is inclined below the horizontal (H) and is directed symmetrically with respect to the toilet 116. The range is limited to some extent so as not to be affected by the wall (W). This can also be achieved by limiting the detection sensitivity.

  5B and 5C show a schematic side view and a plan view of a second light detection pattern used by the passive light sensor provided in the automatic toilet cleaning apparatus of FIG. This detection pattern is formed by a lens or other optical element. The pattern is inclined both vertically and horizontally (H). Furthermore, the pattern is directed asymmetrically with respect to the toilet 116 as shown in FIG. 5C.

  5D and 5E show a schematic side view and a plan view of a third light detection pattern used by the passive light sensor disposed in the automatic toilet cleaning device of FIG. This detection pattern is also formed by a lens or other optical element. The pattern is inclined upward in the horizontal (H) direction. Further, the pattern is directed asymmetrically with respect to the toilet 116 as shown in FIG. 5E.

  5F and 5G show a schematic side view and a plan view of a fourth light detection pattern used by the passive light sensor disposed in the automatic toilet cleaning device of FIG. This detection pattern tilts downward in the horizontal (H) direction and is directed asymmetrically with respect to the toilet 116 as shown in FIG. 5G. The detection pattern is described in US patent application Ser. No. 09 / 916,468 filed Jul. 27, 2001 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09 / 972,496 filed Oct. 6, 2001. side flushers) ”.

  5H and 5I show a schematic side view and a plan view of a light detection pattern used by a passive light sensor disposed in the automatic urinal washing apparatus of FIG. 4A. This detection pattern is formed by a lens or other optical element. The pattern is inclined both vertically and horizontally (H) so as to target changes in ambient light caused by a person standing in front of the urinal 120. The pattern is directed asymmetrically with respect to the urinal 120 (as shown in FIG. 5I), eg, to eliminate or at least reduce light changes caused by a person standing adjacent to the urinal. It has become.

  FIGS. 5J, 5K, and 5L show a schematic side view and plan view of another light detection pattern used by the passive light sensor disposed in the automatic urinal washer of FIG. 4A. This detection pattern is formed by a lens or other optical element as described above. The pattern is inclined downward in the horizontal direction (H) so as to eliminate the influence of light from the ceiling lamp. The pattern can be asymmetrically directed left or right with respect to the urinal 120 (as shown in FIG. 5K or FIG. 5L). These detection patterns are described in U.S. Patent Application No. 09 / 916,468 filed on July 27, 2001 or U.S. Patent Application No. 09 / 972,496 filed on October 6, 2001. (urinal side flushers) "is particularly useful.

  In general, the field of view of a passive optical sensor can be formed using optical elements such as a beam forming tube, a lens, a light guide, a reflector, a pinhole array, and a slot array having a predetermined geometry. These optical elements can provide a field of view looking down to eliminate invalid targets such as mirrors, doors, and walls. Various ratios of vertical and horizontal views provide different options for target detection. For example, the horizontal field of view can be made 1.2 times wider than the vertical field of view, or vice versa. A properly selected view can eliminate unwanted signals from adjacent faucets or urinals. The detection algorithm includes a calibration routine that takes into account a predetermined field of view including the size and orientation of the field of view.

  6 to 6E show different optical elements for generating the desired detection pattern of the passive sensor. 6 and 6B show different pinhole arrays. The plate thickness, size, and pinhole orientation (shown in cross section in FIGS. 6A and 6C) will determine the characteristics of the field of view. 6D and 6E show a slit array for generating the detection patterns shown in FIGS. 5B and 5H. The plate also includes a shutter for covering the upper or lower detection view.

  FIG. 7 shows in detail an automatic cleaning valve suitable for use with automatic cleaning apparatus 100 or automatic cleaning apparatus 100A. Other cleaning valves are described in the above PCT application. Still other suitable flush valves are described in US Pat. Nos. 6,382,586 and 5,244,179. In either case, the cleaning valve is controlled by the passive optical sensor described herein.

  Referring to FIG. 7, the automatic cleaning valve 140 is a high performance electronically or manually controlled tankless cleaning valve. The automatic cleaning valve 140 uses a passive optical sensor 130 (shown in FIG. 7). Passive light sensor 130 includes a lens 134 for defining a detection field of view and providing ambient light to light receiver 132. The plastic enclosure 135 includes an optical window 136, which can include the optical elements described with respect to FIGS. 6-6E. A controller is disposed on the circuit board 138. The plastic enclosure 135 also houses a battery for powering the entire cleaning system.

  Still referring to FIG. 7, the flush valve 140 includes an input union 112, which is preferably made from a suitable plastic resin. The input union 112 is attached via threads to an input coupling that interacts with the building water supply system. Furthermore, the union 112 is designed to rotate on its own axis when no water is present, thereby facilitating alignment with the inlet supply line. The union 112 is attached to the inlet pipe 142 by a fixture 144 and a radial seal 146, which allows the union 112 to move in and out along the inlet pipe 142. This movement aligns the inlet with the supply line. However, when the fixture 144 is fixed, the water pressure applied by the union 112 is present at the inlet 142. This forms one unit that is tightly sealed via the seal 146. The feed water propagates through the union 112 to the inlet 142 and passes through the inlet valve assembly 150 and the inlet screen filter 152, which is in the passage formed by the member 178 and is in the main valve seat 156. Is in contact with. The overall operation of the main valve can be better understood with reference to FIGS. 9 and 9A as well.

  As described with respect to FIGS. 8, 9 and 9A, the electromagnetic actuator 201 controls the operation of the main valve, or “Flame piston valve” 270. In the open state, water flows through passages 152 and 158 into passages 159A and 159B and to main outlet 114. In the closed state, the fram element 278 (FIGS. 9 and 9A) seals the valve main seat 156, thereby closing the flow through the passage 158. The automatic cleaning device 140 includes an adjustable input valve 150 that is controlled by rotation of a valve element 174 screwed with the valve elements 162,164. Valve elements 162, 164 are sealed from body 170 via one or more O-rings 163. Furthermore, the valve elements 162, 164 are pressed down by the threaded element 160 when the element 174 is fully screwed. This force is transmitted to the elements 154,178. The resulting force presses element 180 downward.

  When the valve element 160 is fully unscrewed, the force of the spring 184 disposed on the guide element 186 in the adjustable input valve causes the valve assemblies 150, 151 to move upward. This spring force coupled with the inlet fluid pressure from the pipe 142 forces the component 151 into contact with the O-ring 182 with respect to the valve seat, resulting in a sealing action for the O-ring 182. The O-ring 182 (or other sealing element) includes an element behind the shut-off valve 150 that blocks the flow of water to the internal passages of 152 and then does not require water supply closure at the inlet 112. Maintenance of all internal valve elements can be performed. This is a great advantage of this embodiment.

  According to another function of the adjustable valve 140, the threaded retainer is screwed in part so that the valve body elements 162, 162 only partially push the valve seat downward. A partial opening is provided that provides a flow restriction that reduces the flow of incoming water through the valve 150. This new function is designed to meet the specific requirements of the application. To provide flow restriction to the installer, the inner surface of the valve body includes an application specific mark such as a 1.6 W.C 1.0 GPF urinal to calibrate the incoming water.

  The automatic cleaning valve 140 is equipped with the above-described sensor-based electronic system disposed in the housing 135. Alternatively, the sensor-based electronic cleaning system can be replaced with an all-mechanical drive button or lever. Alternatively, the flush valve can be controlled by a hydraulically timed mechanical actuator that operates in a hydraulic delay configuration as described in PCT application PCT / US01 / 43273. The hydraulic system can be adjusted to a delay period corresponding to the wash volume required for a given facility, such as 1.6 GPF W.C. The hydraulic delay mechanism can open the outlet orifice of the pilot section instead of the electromagnetic actuator 201 for a period equal to the value preset by the wearer.

  Referring again to FIG. 7, in response to the passive light sensor signal, the microcontroller executes a control algorithm to provide ON and OFF signals to the valve actuator 201, which then opens and closes the water supply. Let me. The microcontroller can also perform semi-washing or delayed washing, depending on the mode of use (eg, frequently used urinals in toilets, urinals, baseball fields, etc.). The microcontroller can also perform timed cleaning (once a day or once a week at a facility such as a summer ski resort) to prevent the water trap from drying out.

  8, 8A and 8B show an automatic valve 38 constructed and arranged to control water flow in the automatic faucet 10. FIG. Specifically, the automatic valve 38 receives water at the valve input port 202 and provides water from the valve output port 204 in the open state. The automatic valve 38 includes a body 206 formed from a durable plastic or metal. Preferably, the valve body 206 is made from a plastic material, but includes a metal input coupler 210 and a metal output coupler 230. The input and output couplers 210,230 are made of metal (such as brass, copper, or steel), thereby providing a gripping surface for the wrench used to connect them to the water pipes 24,25 respectively. Is possible. The valve body 206 includes a valve input port 240, a valve output port 244, and a cavity 207 for receiving the individual valve components shown in FIG.

  The metal input coupler 210 is rotatably attached to the input port 240 using a metal C-shaped clamp 212, and the metal C-shaped clamp 212 is placed in a slit 214 inside the input coupler 210. And into the slit 242 (FIG. 8) inside the body of the input port 240. The metal output coupler 230 is rotatably attached to the output port 244 using a metal C-shaped clamp 232, and the metal C-shaped clamp 232 is placed in a slit 234 inside the output coupler 230. And slide into the slit 246 inside the main body of the output port 244. When maintaining the faucet 12, this rotatable configuration prevents the water pipe connection from being tightened to one of the two valve couplers unless a wrench is attached to the predetermined surface of the coupler 210,230. (That is, a person who performs maintenance cannot tighten the water input and output lines by gripping the valve body 206). This protects the relatively soft plastic body 206 of the automatic valve 38. However, the body 206 can be made from metal, in which case the rotatable coupling described above is not necessary. Sealing O-ring 216 seals input coupler 210 against input port 240, and sealing O-ring 238 seals output coupler 230 against output port 244.

  Referring to FIGS. 8, 8A, and 8B, the metal input coupler 210 includes inlet flow adjustment means 220 configured to cooperate with the flow control mechanism 310 (FIG. 8). The inlet flow rate adjusting means 220 includes an adjustment piston 222 and a closing spring 224 disposed around the adjustment pin 226 and pressing the pin retainer 218. The input flow rate adjusting means 220 also includes an adjustment rod 228 coupled to the adjustment piston 222 to displace the piston. The flow control mechanism 310 includes a spin cap 312 coupled to the adjustment cap 316 in communication with the flow control cam 320 by screws 314. The flow control cam 320 slides linearly inside the main body 206 when the adjustment cap 316 rotates. The flow control cam 320 includes an inlet flow opening 321, a lock mechanism 323, and a slope 324. Slope 324 is configured to cooperate with distal end 229 of adjusting rod 228. The linear motion of the flow control cam 320 displaces the inclined surface 324 in the valve main body 206, and consequently displaces the adjusting rod 228. The adjustment piston 222 also includes an inner surface 223 configured to cooperate with the inlet seat 211 of the input coupler 210. Linear movement of the adjustment rod 228 displaces the adjustment piston 222 between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the sealing surface 223 seals the inner sheet 211 by the force of the closing spring 224. In the open position, the adjusting rod 228 displaces the adjusting pin 222 against the closing spring 224, so that a selectively sized opening is provided between the inlet seat 211 and the sealing surface 223. Provided. Therefore, by rotating the adjustment cap 316, the adjustment rod 228 opens and closes the inlet adjustment means 220. The inlet adjustment means 220 controls or completely closes the water flow from the water pipe 24. The manual adjustment described above can be replaced by an automatically monitored adjustment mechanism controlled by a microcontroller.

  Referring to FIGS. 8, 8A, and 8B, the automatic valve 38 also includes a removable inlet filter 330 that is removably disposed on an inlet filter holder 332 that forms part of the lower valve housing. . The inlet filter holder 332 also includes an O-ring and a set of outlet holes 267 shown in FIG. The “Fram Piston” 270 is shown in detail in FIGS. 9 and 9A. Referring again to FIG. 8A, water from the input port 202 of the input coupler 210, through the inlet flow adjustment means 220, then through the inlet flow opening 321, and through the inlet filter 330 inside the inlet filter holder 332. Flowing. The water then reaches the input chamber 268 inside the cylindrical input element 276 and pressure is provided to the flexible member 278 (FIG. 9).

  The automatic valve 38 also includes a service loop 340 (or service rod) designed to pull the entire valve assembly including the attached actuator 200 out of the body 206 after the plug 316 is removed. Removal of the entire valve assembly also removes the attached actuator 200 (or actuator 201) and the pilot button described in PCT application PCT / US02 / 38757 and PCT application PCT / US02 / 38757. A rotating electrical contact is disposed on the PCB at the end of the actuator 200 to allow easy mounting and maintenance. Specifically, the actuator 200 includes two annular contact areas at its ends that provide contact surfaces for the corresponding pins, all of which can be gold plated to achieve high quality contact. Alternatively, a stationary PCB can include two annular contact areas, and the actuator can be connected to a movable contact pin. Such a distal actuator contact assembly achieves an easy rotary contact that simply slides the actuator 200 disposed within the valve body 206.

  FIG. 8C shows an automatic valve 38 that includes a leak detector to indicate a water leak or flow across the valve device 38. The leak detector includes an electronic measurement circuit 350 and at least two electrodes 348, 349 coupled to the input coupler 210 and the output coupler 230, respectively (the leak detector also includes four four-point resistance measurement Electrodes may be included). The valve body 206 is made from a plastic or other non-conductive material. In the closed state, when there is no water flow between the input coupler 210 and the output coupler 230, the electronic circuit 350 measures a very high resistance value between the input coupler 210 and the output coupler 230. In the open state, the resistance value between the input coupler 210 and the output coupler 230 decreases dramatically. This is because the conductive path is provided by running water.

  Various electronic circuit 350 embodiments exist that can provide DC measurements and AC measurements including noise removal using lock-in amplifiers (well known in the art). Alternatively, the electronic circuit 350 can include a bridge or other measurement circuit for accurate measurement of resistance. Electronic circuit 350 provides a resistance value to the microprocessor, thereby indicating when valve 38 is open. Further, the leak detector indicates when there is an undesirable water leak between the input coupler 210 and the output coupler 230. The entire valve 38 is disposed within an insulative enclosure, thereby preventing undesired ground paths that can affect conductivity measurements. In addition, the leak detector can indicate some other valve failure when water leaks from the valve 38 into the enclosure. Thus, the leak detector can detect an undesirable water leak that is difficult to observe by other means. The leak detector is configured to detect the open state of the automatic faucet system and confirm correct operation of the actuator 200.

  The automatic valve 38 may include a standard diaphragm valve, a standard piston valve, or a new “Flame Piston” valve 270 as described in detail with respect to FIGS. 9 and 9A. Referring to FIG. 9, the valve 270 includes a distal body 276 that includes an annular lip seal 275 with a flexible member 278 to provide a seal between the input port chamber 268 and the output port chamber 269. To do. The end body 276 also includes one or more water flow chambers 267 (also shown in FIG. 8) that provide communication (in an open state) between the input chamber 268 and the output chamber 269. The flexible member 278 also includes sealing members 279A, 279B configured to provide a sliding seal against the valve body 272 between the pilot chamber 292 and the output chamber 271. There are various possible embodiments of seals 279A, 279B (FIG. 9). This seal can be a single side seal or a double side seal such as 279A, 279B shown in FIG. In addition, there are various additional embodiments of sliding seals including O-rings and the like.

  The present invention contemplates valve devices 270 having various sizes. For example, a “full” size embodiment may have a pin diameter A = 1.78 mm (0.070 ”), a spring diameter B = about 7.87 mm (0.310”), a flexible member diameter C = about 18.5 mm (0.730 ”). "), Overall fram and seal diameter D = about 10.5mm (0.412"), pin length E = about 11.4mm (0.450 "), body height F = about 6.661mm (0.2701"), pilot The chamber height G = about 5.59 mm (0.220 "), the fram member size H = about 4.06 mm (0.160"), and the fram stroke I = about 2.54 mm (0.100 "). The overall height of the valve. The length is about 34.3 mm (1.35 ") and the diameter is about 29.82 mm (1.174").

  The “half size” embodiment of the “Fram Piston” valve is given the following dimensions for the same reference numbers: For "half size" valves, A = approx. 1.78mm (0.070 "), B = approx. 7.6mm (0.30"), C = approx. 14.2mm (0.560 "), D = approx. 16.5mm (0.650"), E = approx. 8.64 mm (0.34 "), F = about 7.87 mm (0.310"), G = about 5.46 mm (0.215 "), H = about 3.18 mm (0.125"), I = about 15.2 mm (0.60 "). The overall length of the / 2 embodiment is about 1.450 "and the diameter is about 15.5 mm. Different embodiments of the" Fram Piston "valve device can be It is possible to have a larger or smaller size.

  Referring to FIGS. 9 and 9A, the diaphragm piston valve 270 receives fluid at the input port 268 which applies pressure on the diaphragm-like member 278 and provides a seal with the closed lip member 275. Groove passage 288 in pin 286 provides pressure communication with pilot chamber 292, which is in communication with actuator cavity 300 via communication passages 294A, 294B. The actuator (described in PCT application PCT / US02 / 38757) provides a seal at the surface 298, which seals the passages 294A, 294B and thus the pilot chamber 300. As the plunger of actuator 200 moves away from surface 298, fluid flows through passages 294A, 294B to control passage 296 and output port 269. As a result, the pressure in the pilot chamber 292 decreases. Thus, diaphragm-like member 278 and piston-like member 288 move linearly within cavity 292, thereby providing a relatively large fluid opening at the location of lip seal 275. A large amount of fluid can flow from the input port 268 to the output port 269.

  As the plunger of the actuator 200 seals the control passages 294A, 294B, pressure is created in the pilot chamber 292 due to fluid from the input port 268 via the “bleed” groove 288 in the guide pin 286. The increased pressure in the pilot chamber 292 as well as the force of the spring 290 causes the sliding motion on the guide pin 286 to move linearly from the member 270 toward the sealing lip 275. A diaphragm-like flexible member 278 seals the input port chamber 268 at the lip seal 275 when sufficient pressure is present in the pilot chamber 292. The flexible member 278 includes an inner opening designed with a guide pin 286 to clean the groove 288 during the sliding operation. That is, the groove 288 of the guide pin 286 is periodically cleaned.

  The embodiment of FIG. 9 shows a valve having a central input chamber 268 (and guide pin 286) configured symmetrically with respect to vent passages 294A, 294B (and the position of the plunger of actuator 200). However, the valve device may have an input chamber 268 (and guide pin 286) that is asymmetrically configured with respect to passages 294A, 294B and output vent passage 296. That is, in such a design, the valve has an input chamber 268 and a guide pin 286 that are configured asymmetrically with respect to the position of the plunger of the actuator 200. Both the symmetric and asymmetric embodiments are equivalent to each other.

  The automatic valve 38 has a number of advantages with regard to its long-term operation and easy maintenance. The automatic valve 38 includes an inlet adjustment means 220, which enables maintenance of the valve without stopping the water supply elsewhere. The configuration of valve 38, including the internal dimensions of cavity 207 and actuator 200, allows for easy replacement of internal components. The maintenance person removes the screw 314, turns the cap 312, then removes the adjustment cap 316 and opens the valve 38. The valve 38 includes a service loop 340 (or service rod) designed to pull the entire valve assembly including the attached actuator 200 out of the body 206. The maintenance person can then replace any defective parts, including the actuator 200, or the entire assembly and insert the repaired assembly into the valve body 206. Depending on the design of the valve, such repair may only require a few minutes and there is no need to disconnect the valve 38 from the water pipe or stop the water supply. Advantageously, the “Fram Piston” design 270 provides a large stroke, and therefore a large flow rate compared to its size.

  Another embodiment of the “Fram Piston” valve device is described in PCT application PCT / US02 / 34757 filed on December 4, 2002 and PCT application PCT / US03 / 20117 filed on June 24, 2003. Yes. Again, the overall operation of this valve device is controlled by a single solenoid actuator, which is either a latching solenoid actuator or an independent PCT application UST / US01 / 51054 filed on Oct. 25, 2001. It can be an actuator.

  FIG. 10 shows an outline of the electronic control circuit 400 that is fed by the battery 420. The electronic control circuit 400 includes a battery conditioning unit 422, a no or low battery detection unit 425, a passive sensor, a signal processing unit 402, and a microcontroller 405. The battery conditioning unit 422 provides power for the entire controller system. The battery conditioning unit 422 supplies 6.0V power to the “no battery” detector, supplies 6.0V power to the low battery detector, and supplies 6.0V power to the power driver 408. The battery adjustment unit 422 supplies the adjusted 3.0V power to the microcontroller 405.

  The “no battery” detector generates a pulse to the microcontroller 405 in the form of a “no battery” signal to notify the microcontroller 405. The low battery detector is connected to the battery / power conditioning circuit via a 6.0V power supply. When the power supply drops below 4.2V, the detector generates a pulse (ie, a low battery signal) to the microcontroller. Upon receipt of the “low battery” signal, the microcontroller can flash an indicator 430 (eg, an LED) at a frequency of 1 Hz or provide an audible alarm. After 2000 cleans in a low battery condition, the microcontroller stops cleaning but keeps the LEDs flashing.

  As described with respect to FIG. 10B, the passive sensor and signal processing module 402 converts the resistance value of the photoresistor into a pulse, which is sent to the microcontroller via the charge pulse signal. A change in pulse width represents a change in resistance value, and the change in resistance value corresponds to a change in illumination. The control circuit also includes a clock / reset unit that provides clock pulse generation and resets pulse generation. The clock / reset unit generates a reset pulse having a frequency of 4 kHz, which is the same frequency according to the clock pulse. The reset signal is sent to the microcontroller 405 via a “reset” signal to reset the microcontroller or wake the microcontroller from sleep mode.

  The manual button switch can be formed by a reed switch and a magnet. When the button is pressed by the user, the circuit sends a signal to the clock / reset unit via the manual signal IRQ, which then causes the clock / reset unit to generate a reset signal. At the same time, the level of the manual signal level changes to inform the microcontroller 405 that it is a valid manual wash signal.

  Referring to FIG. 10, the electronic control circuit 400 receives a signal from the light sensor unit 402 and is adjusted by an actuator 412, a controller or microcontroller 405, an input element (eg, a light sensor), a voltage regulator 422, and a battery 420. The solenoid driver 408 (power driver) that receives the power from is controlled. The microcontroller 405 is designed to perform efficient power operations. To save power, the microcontroller 405 initially enters a low frequency sleep mode and periodically accesses the light sensor to see if it has been triggered. After being triggered, the microcontroller provides a control signal to the power consumption controller 418. The power consumption controller 418 is a switch for powering on the voltage adjusting means 422 (or voltage boost 422), the optical sensor unit 402, and the signal adjusting means 416 (for simplicity of the block diagram, the power consumption controller Connections from 418 to the optical sensor unit 402 and to the signal adjustment means 416 are not shown).

  Microcontroller 405 can receive input signals from external input elements (eg, push buttons) designed for manual drive or control input for actuator 410. Specifically, the microcontroller 405 supplies control signals 406A and 406B to the power driver 408 that drives the solenoid of the actuator 410. The power driver 408 receives DC power from the battery, and the voltage adjustment means 422 adjusts the battery power to provide a substantially constant voltage to the power driver 408. The actuator sensor 412 records or monitors the armature position of the actuator 410 and supplies a control signal 415 to the signal adjusting means 416. The low battery detection unit 425 can detect battery power and supply an interrupt signal to the microcontroller 405.

  Actuator sensor 412 provides data regarding the movement or position of the armature of the actuator to microcontroller 405 (via signal conditioning means 416), which is used to control power driver 408. Actuator sensor 412 can be an electromagnetic sensor (eg, a pickup coil), a capacitive sensor, a Hall effect sensor, a light sensor, a pressure transducer, or any other type of sensor.

  Preferably, the microcontroller 405 is a Toshiba 8-bit CMOS microcontroller TMP86P807M. The microcontroller has an 8 kbyte program memory and a 256 byte data memory. Programming is performed using a Toshiba adapter socket with a general purpose PROM programmer. The microcontroller operates at three frequencies (fc = 16MHz, fc = 8MHz, fc = 332.768kHz), its first two clock frequencies are used in normal mode and the third frequency is in low power mode (ie Used in sleep mode. The microcontroller 405 operates in sleep mode between various startups. To conserve battery power, the microcontroller 405 periodically samples the input signal of the light sensor 402 and then triggers the power consumption controller 418. The power consumption controller 418 turns on the power of the signal adjusting means 416 and other components. In other cases, no power is supplied to the optical sensor 402, the voltage adjustment unit 422 (or the voltage boost 422), and the signal adjustment unit 416 in order to save battery power. In operation, the microcontroller 405 also provides instruction data to the indicator 430. The electronic control circuit 400 can receive a signal from the above-described passive light sensor or active light sensor. The passive optical sensor includes only a photodetector that supplies a detection signal to the microcontroller 405.

  The low battery detection unit 425 can be a low battery detector: model number TC54VN4202EMB sold by Microchip Technology. The voltage adjustment means 422 can also be a voltage adjustment circuit sold by Microchip Technology (http://www.microchip.com): part number TC55RP3502EMB. The microcontroller 405 may alternatively be a microcontroller sold by National Semiconductor: part number MCUCOP8SAB728M9.

  FIG. 10A shows an overview of another embodiment of the electronic control circuit 400. The electronic control circuit 400 receives a signal from the optical sensor unit 402 and controls the actuator 412. As described above, the electronic control circuit 400 also includes a microcontroller 405, a solenoid driver 408 (ie, a power driver), voltage regulator 422, and a battery 420. The solenoid actuator 411 includes two coil sensors 411A and 411B. The coil sensors 411A and 411B supply signals to preamplifiers 416A and 416B and low-pass filters 417A and 417B, respectively. The differencer 419 supplies a difference signal to the microcontroller 405 in a feedback loop configuration.

  The microcontroller 405 sends an open signal to the power driver 408 to open the flow path. The power driver 408 supplies drive current to the drive coil of the actuator 410 in a direction that will cause the armature to retract. At the same time, coils 411A and 411B supply the induced signal to an adjustment feedback loop including a preamplifier and a low pass filter. If the output of the differencer 419 indicates that it is less than a predetermined threshold calibrated for the retracted armature (ie, the armature has not reached the predetermined position), the microcontroller 405 asserts the open signal 406B. to continue. If no movement of the solenoid armature is detected, the microcontroller 405 adds different (higher) levels of the open signal 406B to increase the drive current supplied by the power driver 408 (up to several times the normal drive current). ) Increase. In this way, the system can move armatures that have become stuck due to inorganic deposits or other problems.

  Microcontroller 405 can detect armature displacement (or even monitor armature movement) using signals induced in coils 411A, 411B disposed in the adjustment feedback loop. As the output from the differentiator 419 changes in response to the armature displacement, the microcontroller 405 can apply a different (lower) level of the open signal 406B, or turn off the open signal 406B, The power driver 408 is then caused to apply different levels of drive current. As a result, typically the drive current will drop or the duration of the drive current (which must be used without an armature sensor) the time required to open the flow path in the worst case Much shorter than. Thus, the present control system saves significant energy and therefore extends battery life.

  Advantageously, the configuration of the coil sensors 411A, 411B can detect the latching and unlatching operations of the actuator armature with high accuracy (however, a single coil sensor or multiple coil sensors or capacitances). It is also possible to detect armature movement using sex sensors). The microcontroller 405 can detect a drive current of a predetermined profile applied by the power driver 408. Various profiles can be stored in the microcontroller 405, including the fluid type, the fluid pressure (water pressure), the fluid temperature (water temperature), the time the actuator 410 has been operated since it was installed or maintained. Can be driven based on battery level, input from an external sensor (eg, motion sensor or pressure sensor), or other factors. Based on the water pressure and the known size of the orifice, the automatic wash valve can deliver a known amount of wash water.

  FIG. 10B shows an overview of the detection circuit used for the passive optical sensor 50. The passive optical sensor does not include a light source (no light emission occurs), and includes only a photodetector that detects incoming light. Compared to an active light sensor, a passive sensor allows a reduction in power consumption. This is because all the power consumption of the IR emitter is lost. The photodetector can be a photodiode, a photoresistor, or some other optical element that provides an electrical output depending on the intensity or wavelength of the received light. The photoreceiver is selected to be active in the range of 350-1500 nm, preferably 400-1000 nm, more preferably 500-950 nm. For this reason, the photodetector is not sensitive to body heat generated by the user of the faucet 10, 10A, 10B, or 10C or body heat generated by the user located in front of the cleaning device 100 or 100A.

  FIG. 10B is a schematic diagram of a detection circuit used by a passive sensor that allows a significant reduction in power consumption. The detection circuit includes a detection element D (eg, a photodiode or a photoresistor) and two comparators (U1A, U1B) connected to provide readout from the detection element upon receipt of a HIGH pulse. Preferably, the detection element is a photoresistor. The voltage VCC is + 5V (or + 3V) received from the power supply. Resistors R2 and R3 are voltage dividers between VCC and ground. The diode D1 is connected between the pulse input and the output line, and can read the electrostatic capacitance C1 charged at the time of light detection.

  Preferably, the photoresistor is designed to receive light in the range of 1-1000 lux by appropriately designing the optical lens 54 or the optical element shown in FIGS. 6-6E. For example, the optical lens 54 can include a photochromic material or a variable size aperture. In general, a photoresistor can receive light in the range of 0.1 to 500 lux for proper detection. The resistance of the photodiode is very large at low light intensity and decreases (usually exponentially) with increasing intensity.

  Referring to FIG. 10B, upon receiving a “HIGH” pulse on the input connection, comparator U1A receives the “HIGH” pulse and provides the “HIGH” pulse to node A. At this point, the corresponding capacitor change is read out to output 7 via comparator U1B. The output pulse is a rectangular wave having a period depending on the photocurrent (capacitor C1 is charged during the light detection period). Thus, the microcontroller 34 receives a signal that depends on the detected light.

  In the absence of a HIGH signal, the comparator U1A does not provide a signal to node A, so the capacitor C1 is charged by the photocurrent excited by the photoresistor D between VCC and ground. . The charging and reading (discharging) process is repeated in a controlled manner by providing a HIGH pulse at the control input. The output receives a HIGH output, that is, a square wave having a period proportional to the photocurrent excited by the photoresistor. The detection signal follows a detection algorithm implemented by the microcontroller 405.

  By eliminating the need to use an IR light source that consumes the energy used in the case of active light sensors. The system can be configured to achieve longer battery life (usually many years or multiple operations without replacing the battery). In addition, passive sensors enable a means to more accurately determine the presence of the user, the user's movement, and the user's direction of movement.

  The preferred embodiment as to what type of photosensor element should be used will depend on the following factors: Photoresistor response times are on the order of 20-50 msec, which makes the photodiodes on the order of a few microseconds, so the use of the photoresist would require a much longer time, which is overall Will greatly affect the use of energy.

  In addition, passive optical sensors can be used to determine the light and darkness in a facility and then change the detection frequency (performed in the faucet detection algorithm). That is, in a dark facility, the detection rate is reduced under the assumption that faucets or cleaning devices will not be used in such conditions. The decrease in detection frequency further reduces overall energy consumption, thus further extending battery life.

  FIG. 11 illustrates various factors that affect the operation and calibration of passive optics. The sensor environment is important because detection depends on ambient light conditions. If the ambient light in the facility changes brightly from normal conditions, the detection algorithm must recalculate the background and detection scale. The detection process will differ as indicated by the given algorithm when the lighting conditions change (585). For each facility, there are several fixed states (588) such as walls, toilet bowl locations, and their surfaces. A given algorithm periodically calibrates the detection signal to account for such conditions. The above factors are included in the following algorithm.

  Referring to FIGS. 12-12I, the microcontroller is programmed to execute a cleaning algorithm for flush toilet 116 or urinal 120 at a plurality of different light levels. The algorithm 600 moves different users located in front of the cleaning device when the user is approaching the device, when the user is using a toilet or urinal, and when the user leaves the device. Detect when you are. Based on their activity, the algorithm 600 uses different states. In order to automatically clean the toilet at appropriate intervals, there are time intervals between each state. The algorithm 600 also controls cleaning at specific intervals to confirm that there was no detection and the toilet was not in use. The passive photodetector for algorithm 600 is preferably a photoresistor connected to the readout circuit shown in FIG. 10B.

  Algorithm 200 has three light modes: bright mode (mode 1), dark mode (mode 3), and normal mode (mode 2). The bright mode (mode 1) is set as the microcontroller mode when the resistance value is less than 2 kΩ (Pb) (corresponding to a large amount of detection light) (FIG. 12). The dark mode (mode 3) is set when the resistance value is larger than 2 MΩ (corresponding to extremely small detection light) (FIG. 12). The normal mode (mode 2) is defined when the resistance value is between 2 kΩ and 2 MΩ (there is an ambient conventional amount of light). The resistance value is measured with respect to the pulse width (corresponding to the resistance value of the photoresistor in FIG. 10B). The threshold value of the resistance value is different for each different photoresistor, and is shown as an example in this document.

  The microcontroller is constantly cycling through the algorithm 600, in this case starting every second (for example) and determining which mode it was last in (by the amount of light detected in the previous cycle). From the current mode, the microcontroller determines which mode to transition to based on the current pulse width (p) (corresponding to the resistance value of the photoresistor).

  The microcontroller passes through six states in mode 2. The following shows a plurality of states necessary for starting the cleaning. In the Idle state, no background light change occurs, and the microcontroller calibrates the ambient light, in the Targetin state the target begins to enter the sensor's field of view, and during the In8Seconds state, the target moves toward the sensor. Approach and the measured pulse width stabilizes for 8 seconds (no cleaning occurs if the target leaves after 8 seconds), and in the After8Seconds state, the target enters the sensor's field of view and the pulse width is 8 This means that the target stays in front of the sensor for a longer period of time, which is stable for longer than a second (if the target leaves after 8 seconds (and then the target leaves), a guaranteed cleaning is performed. ) In the TargetOut state, the target has gone out of the field of view of the sensor. In the In2Seconds state, the target has left after the target has left. Click the ground is stable. After this last state, the microcontroller performs a wash and returns to the Idle state.

  As the target moves closer to the sensor, it may block light (especially when wearing dark light-absorbing clothing). For this reason, the sensor will detect a smaller amount of light in the TargetIn state, which will increase the resistance (which will later be referred to as the TargetInUp state) and the microcontroller will detect more light in the TargetOut state. As a result, the resistance value decreases (becomes a TargetOutUp state described later). However, if the target is wearing bright and reflective clothing, the microcontroller will detect more light as the target approaches in the TargetIn state (which will be described later as the TargetInDown state). State occurs), and less light will be detected in the TargetOut state (TargetOutDown state described below). Two seconds after the target leaves the toilet, the microcontroller flushes the toilet and returns to the Idle state.

  In order to test whether a target is present, the microcontroller checks the stability of the pulse width, i.e., how much the value p could vary within a certain period, and It is checked whether the pulse width variability is higher than a certain selected background level or a given threshold of the pulse width variability (unstable). The system uses two other constant preselected values in the algorithm 600 when checking the stability of the value p to set the state in mode 2. One of these two values is Stable1, which is a constant threshold of pulse width variability. A value less than that means that there is no activity in front of the device, since the value p does not change over the measured period. The second preselected value used to determine the stability of the value p is Stable2, which is another constant threshold for pulse width variability. In this case, a value less than that means that the user did not move in front of the microcontroller over the measured period.

  The microcontroller also calculates the Target value, ie the average pulse width in the After8Sec state, and then whether the Target value is a certain level greater (in the case of TargetInUp) or smaller (in the case of TargetInDown) than the background light intensity. Check (ie, Background × (1 + PercentageIn) for TargetInUp, Background × (1-PercentageIn) for TargetInDown). To check the case of TargetOutUp and TargetOutDown, the microcontroller uses a second set of values: Background × (1 + PercentageOut) and Background × (1-PercentageOut)).

  Referring to FIG. 12, every second (601), the microcontroller is activated to measure the pulse width p (602). The microcontroller then determines what mode it was in before and enters mode 1 (614) if it was previously in mode 1 (604). Similarly, if mode 2 was entered in the previous cycle (606), mode 2 was entered (616), and if mode 3 was entered in the previous cycle (608), mode 3 is entered (618). If the microcontroller cannot determine what mode it entered in the previous cycle, it enters mode 2 as the default mode (610). When the mode subroutine is complete, the microcontroller enters sleep mode (612) until the next cycle 600 begins at step 601.

  Referring to FIG. 12A (mode 1-light mode), the microcontroller was previously in mode 1 based on the value p being less than 2 kΩ, and now the value p is greater than 8 seconds measured by timer 1. If it remains above 2 kΩ for longer than 60 seconds, the microcontroller performs a wash (640), all mode 1 timers (timers 1 and 2) are reset (630), and the next The microcontroller will go to sleep until the next cycle 600 begins at step 601 (612). However, if the value p changes while timer 1 counts longer than 8 seconds or shorter than 60 seconds (628), no cleaning is performed. Simply, all mode 1 timers are reset (630), the microcontroller goes to sleep (612), and mode 1 will continue to be set as the microcontroller mode until the next cycle 600 begins.

  If the microcontroller was previously in mode 1 but currently (632) over a period longer than 60 seconds (634) the value p is greater than 2 kΩ and less than 2 MΩ based on the count of timer 1 (622 ) All mode 1 timers are reset (644), the microcontroller sets mode 2 as system mode (646), the microcontroller starts in mode 2 in the next cycle 600, and the microcontroller goes to sleep A transition will be made (612). However, if the value p changes while timer 1 counts 60 seconds (134-148), mode 1 remains in microcontroller mode and the microcontroller goes to sleep until the next cycle 600 begins. A transition will be made (612).

  If the microcontroller was in mode 1 before and timer 2 currently counts (638) longer than 8 seconds (638), the value p is greater than or equal to 2 MΩ (624), all modes 1 The timer is reset (650), the microcontroller is set to mode 3 (652) as a new system mode, and the microcontroller will go to sleep until the next cycle 600 begins (612). However, if the value p changes while timer 2 counts 8 seconds, the microcontroller goes to sleep (steps 638-612) and mode 1 remains in microcontroller mode until the next cycle 600 begins. Will continue to be set.

  Referring to FIG. 12B (mode 3-dark mode), the microcontroller was previously in mode 3 based on the value p being 2 MΩ or greater, and now the value p was measured by timer 3 (812). If (814) 2 kΩ or less (810) for a period longer than 2 seconds, the microcontroller resets timers 3 and 4 (ie, all mode 3 timers) (816) and the microcontroller Mode 1 is set as a state until it is started (818), and a transition is made to sleep (612). However, if the value p changes while timer 3 counts 8 seconds, the microcontroller goes from step 814 to step 612 and sleeps and enters mode 3 as microcontroller mode until the next cycle 600 begins. Will continue to be set.

  If the microcontroller was previously in mode 3 based on the value p being 2 MΩ or greater and the value p is still greater than 2 MΩ (820), the microcontroller resets timers 3 and 4 (822). The microcontroller goes to sleep (612) and mode 3 will continue to be set as the microcontroller mode until the next cycle 600 begins.

  (824) if the microcontroller was in mode 3 before but now the value p is between 2 kΩ and 2 MΩ for a period longer than 2 seconds measured by timer 4 (826) (828) Timers 3 and 4 are reset (830), mode 2 is set as a state until the next cycle 600 starts (832), and the microcontroller goes to sleep (612). However, if the value p changes while timer 4 counts longer than 2 seconds, mode 3 remains in microcontroller mode and transitions from microcontroller step 828 to step 612 and the next cycle 600 begins. It will shift to sleep until. If an abnormal value p occurs, it will go to sleep (612) until the next cycle of the microcontroller starts.

  Referring to FIG. 12C (Mode 2—Normal Mode), the microcontroller has been previously set to Mode 2 and currently has a (664) value p over a period longer than 8 seconds measured by Timer 5 (662). If it is 2 kΩ or less (656), all mode 2 timers are reset (674), mode 1 (bright mode) is set as the microcontroller mode (676), and the microcontroller goes to sleep. (612). However, if the value p changes while timer 5 counts longer than 8 seconds, the microcontroller goes to sleep (from step 664 to step 612), and mode 2 remains until the next cycle 600 begins. The microcontroller mode will be maintained.

  However, currently, over a period longer than 8 seconds measured by timer 6 (668) (670) the value p is 2 MΩ or more (658) and the toilet is not idle (ie there is a background change (680). )), The system will clean (690) if the value p remains above 2 MΩ while the timer 6 counts over 5 seconds (688). After the cleaning, the timers 5 and 6 are reset (692), the mode 3 is set as the microcontroller mode (694), and the microcontroller goes to sleep (612). If the value p changes while the timer 6 counts longer than 5, the system goes from step 688 to step 612 and sleeps.

  The microcontroller was previously set to mode 2 and currently the value p is greater than 2 MΩ (658) for a period longer than 8 seconds measured by timer 6 (668) (658) and the toilet is in the idle state ( 680), the timers 5 and 6 are reset (682), mode 3 is set as the microcontroller mode (684), and the microcontroller goes to sleep in step 612.

  If the value p is greater than 2 MΩ but the value p changes while the timer 6 counts (670) longer than 8 seconds (670), the microcontroller goes to sleep (612) and mode 2 Will be maintained as a microcontroller mode. If the value p is at a different value, the microcontroller will move to step 660 (shown in FIG. 12D).

  Alternatively, referring to FIG. 12D, if the microcontroller mode was previously set as mode 2 and the value p is greater than 2 kΩ and less than 2 MΩ (661), timers 5 and 6 are reset ( 666), the stability of the pulse width value is checked by evaluating the variability (667) of the last four pulse width values, and by determining the average value of the pulse width (669), the Target value is Found.

  At this point, if the microcontroller state is found to be Idle (672), the microcontroller proceeds to step 675. In step 675, the Stability is found to be greater than a certain Unstable value (which means that there is a user in front of the device) and the Target value is Background × (1 If it is greater than (+ PercentageIn) value (which means that the light detected by the microcontroller has dropped), this will lead to step 679 and the TargetInUp state (i.e. the light has been moved because the user has approached the device). The resistance value increases by being blocked or absorbed), the microcontroller goes to sleep (612), and enters the mode 2 TargetInUp as the microcontroller mode and state.

  If the condition indicated in step 675 is not true, the microcontroller checks the condition in step 677. In step 677, the stability was found to be greater than a certain Unstable value due to the user being in front of the device, but the Target value was set to Background due to increased detected light. If it is smaller than (1-PercentageIn), this will lead to the “TargetInDown” state of step 681 (ie, the user approaches and the light is reflected by the user's clothes and the resistance value decreases), and the microcontroller Shifts to sleep (612) and enters the mode 2 TargetInDown as the microcontroller mode and state. However, if the microcontroller state is not Idle (672), the microcontroller proceeds to step 673 (shown in FIG. 12E).

  Referring to FIG. 12E, if the system starts in the TargetInUp state (683), in step 689, the system determines whether the Stability value is less than the constant Stable2, and the Target value is Background × (1 + PercentageIn ) Is checked (689). If both of these conditions are met at the same time, this means that the user is stationary in the front of the device and is blocking light, the microcontroller goes to the In8SecUp state (697), and goes to sleep. Transition (612). If the two conditions in step 689 are not met, the system will have a Stability less than Stable1 and a Target less than Background × (1 + PercentageIn) (this means that there is no user in front of the device, the device Means that a large amount of light is detected) (691). If this is true, the system is set as Mode 2 Idle (699) and the microcontroller goes to sleep (612). If none of the conditions in steps 689 and 691 is satisfied, the system goes to sleep (612).

  If TargetInDown state (686) is set in the previous cycle, the system determines in step 693 whether Stability is less than Stable2 and Target is less than Background × (1-PercentageIn). . If this is true, this means that the user is stationary at the front of the device and more light is detected, and the microcontroller advances the state to In8SecDown (701). Then sleep (612).

  If the two conditions in step 693 are not met, the microcontroller checks in step 698 whether Stability is less than Stable1 and Target is greater than Background × (1-PercentageIn). If both are true, this means that there is no activity in front of the device and that the device is detecting a large amount of light, so the state is set to mode 2 idle. (703), and then goes to sleep (612). If Stability and Target do not satisfy either of the conditions of Step 693 or Step 698, the microcontroller goes to sleep (612) and mode 2 continues to be in the microcontroller state. If the state is not Idle, TargetInUp, or TargetInDown, the microcontroller continues processing as shown at step 695 (shown in FIG. 12F).

  Referring to FIG. 12F, when In8SecUp is set as the state (700), it is checked in step 702 whether Stability is smaller than Stable2 and Target is larger than Background × (1 + PercentageIn). If these conditions are met, this means there is a stationary user in front of the device and still a small amount of light is detected, and the timer for the In8Sec state starts counting ( 708). If the two conditions remain the same and the timer counts longer than 8 seconds, timer 7 is reset (712), the microcontroller proceeds to the After8SecUp state (714), and finally goes to sleep. (612). If the two conditions change while the timer counts over 8 seconds (710), the microcontroller goes to sleep (612). If the conditions are not met by the values of Stability and Target in step 702, the In8Sec timer is reset (704), the microcontroller state is set to TargetInUp in step 706, and the microcontroller proceeds to step 673 (FIG. 12E).

  Referring to FIG. 12E, if the microcontroller state is set to In8SecDown (716), the microcontroller determines whether Stability is less than Stable2 and Target is less than Background × (1-PercentageIn), step 718. To check whether the user is stationary in front of the device and whether the device continues to detect a large amount of light. If the two values satisfy the conditions simultaneously, the In8Sec state timer starts counting (724). If the timer counts longer than 8 seconds while the two conditions are met (726), timer 7 is reset (728), the state proceeds to After8SecDown (730), and the microcontroller Transition to sleep (612).

  If the timer does not count longer than 8 seconds while the Stability and Target maintain their respective ranges, the microcontroller does not advance the state and goes to sleep (612). If the condition in step 718 is not met by the stability and target values, the In8Sec timer is reset (720), the microcontroller is set to TargetInDown (722), and the microcontroller continues to step 673 (FIG. 12E). If the mode 2 state is not one of those covered in FIGS. 12C-12F, the system proceeds via step 732 (shown in FIG. 12G).

  Referring to FIG. 12G, at step 734, if the system is in the After8SecUp state (734), the system checks whether Stability is less than Stable1, ie, no activity in front of the device. . If this is true, the timer 7 starts counting (742) and until the timer 7 counts longer than 15 minutes (744), if the Stability remains less than Stable1, The microcontroller performs cleaning (746), the Idle state is set (748), and the microcontroller goes to sleep (612). If the Stability is not maintained below the Stable1 value until the timer 7 counts longer than 15 minutes, the microcontroller goes to sleep until the next cycle (612).

  If Stability is not less than Stable1, the microcontroller checks whether Stability is greater than Unstable and whether Target is greater than Background × (1 + PercentageOut) (738). If both of these criteria are met at the same time, this means that there is a user moving in front of the device, but more light is being detected as the user moves away, The controller proceeds to mode 2 TargetOutUp as a microcontroller state (740), and the microcontroller goes to sleep (612). If Stability and Target do not meet the two criteria of step 738, the microcontroller goes to sleep (612).

  If the microcontroller is in After8SecDown (750), the microcontroller checks in step 752 whether Stability is less than Stable1. If this is true, timer 7 starts counting (754), and if timer 7 counts longer than 15 minutes (756), the microcontroller performs cleaning (758) and the Idle state is set (760), the microcontroller goes to sleep (612). If the Stability is not maintained below the Stable1 value until the timer 7 counts longer than 15 minutes, the microcontroller goes to sleep until the next cycle (612).

  If it is determined in step 752 that Stability is not smaller than Stable1, the microcontroller checks whether Stability is larger than Unstable and Target is smaller than Background × (1-PercentageOut) (738). If this is true, this means that there is a user in front of the device and less light is detected as the user leaves, and the microcontroller advances its state to TargetOutDown at step 764. And transition to sleep (612). If both of the conditions in step 762 are not satisfied, if the Stability and Target do not satisfy the two criteria of step 738, the microcontroller goes to sleep (612). If the mode 2 state is not one of those covered in FIGS. 12C-12G, the system continues processing via step 770 (shown in FIG. 12H).

  Referring to FIG. 12H, when TargetOutUp is set as a state (772), the microcontroller determines in step 774 whether Stability is smaller than Stable1 and Target is smaller than Background × (1 + PercentageOut). To check. If this is true, the microcontroller sets the state to In2Sec (776) and goes to sleep (612). However, if Stability and Target do not meet the criteria of Step 774 at the same time, the microcontroller checks in Step 778 whether Stability is greater than Unstable and Target is greater than Background x (1 + PercentageOut). To do. If this is true, the microcontroller sets the state to After8SecUp (780) and proceeds to step 732 to continue processing (see FIG. 12). If Stability and Target do not meet the criteria of step 774 or 778, the microcontroller goes to sleep (612).

  When the microcontroller is in the TargetOutDown state (782), the microcontroller checks whether Stability is smaller than Stable1 and Target is larger than Background × (1-PercentageOut) (783). If this is true, this means that there is no activity in front of the device and less light reaches the device, so the microcontroller advances the state to In2Sec (784). , And shifts to sleep (612). However, if Stability and Target do not satisfy both criteria of Step 783, the microcontroller determines in Step 785 whether Stability is greater than Unstable and Target is less than Background × (1-PercentageOut). To check. If this is true, the microcontroller sets the state to After8SecDown (788) and proceeds to step 732 to continue processing (see FIG. 12G). If Stability and Target do not satisfy any of the criteria of step 783 or 785, the microcontroller goes to sleep (612).

  Referring to FIG. 12I, when the microcontroller is set to the In2Sec state in the previous cycle (791), the microcontroller checks whether Stability is smaller than Stable1 (792). This is a very important condition. This is because there is no fluctuation in the light detected via the resistance value after the user leaves. In step 792, it is also checked in step 792 whether the Target value is larger than Background × (1−PercentageIn) or smaller than Background × (1 + PercentageIn). If this is true, there is no activity on the front of the device, and the detected light is not one of the two levels required to indicate a block or reflection by the user, which is the front of the device. Indicates that the user does not exist. The system then starts an In2Sec state timer in step 794 and if these conditions are maintained and the timer counts longer than 2 seconds, the microcontroller performs a wash (798) and in step 799 all modes 2 The timer is reset, the state returns to Idle at step 800, and the microcontroller goes to sleep (612). If the Stability and Target values change while the In2Sec timer counts longer than 2 seconds (796), the microcontroller goes to sleep until the next cycle 600 begins (612).

  If the Stability and Target values do not meet the two conditions set in step 792, the In2Sec timer is reset (802), the state is returned to TargetOutUp or TargetOutDown in step 804, and the microcontroller returns to step 770 (FIG. 12H). ) If the microcontroller is not in the In2Sec state, the microcontroller goes to sleep (612) and starts the algorithm 600 again.

  13, 13A, and 13B show control algorithms for the faucets 10, 10A, and 10B. The algorithm 900 includes two modes. Mode 1 is used when the passive sensor is located outside the water stream (faucet 10B), and mode 2 is used when the passive sensor field of view is inside the water stream (faucet 10, 10A). . In mode 1 (algorithm 920), a sensor placed outside the water stream detects light blockage by a nearby user's hand, checks the period during which a small amount of light remains stable, Although it is interpreted that it is in front of the sink, it is excluded as a similar signal that the room in which the device is placed is dark. This sensor then turns off the water directly when the user leaves the faucet or no longer detects an unstable low level of light.

  In mode 2 (algorithm 1000), the photoresistor inside the water stream still uses the variables described above, but considers another factor, i.e. the flowing water can also reflect light, so Consider that the sensor may not be able to fully verify that the user has left the faucet. In this case, the algorithm also uses a timer to turn off the water, but in this case it actively checks whether the user is still there. Mode 1 or 2 can be selected by, for example, a dip switch.

  Referring to FIG. 13, the algorithm 900 begins after the power is turned on (901) and in step 902 the device initializes the module. The microcontroller then checks the battery status (904), resets all timers and counters (906), and closes the valve at step 908 (shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 4, and 4A). All electronics are calibrated (910) and in step 914 the microcontroller establishes a background light threshold level (BLTH). The microcontroller then determines the mode to be used in step 914, in mode 1, the microcontroller executes algorithm 920 (to step 922 in FIG. 13A), and in mode 2, the microcontroller executes algorithm 1000 ( Step 1002 of FIG. 13B).

  Referring to FIG. 13A, the microcontroller uses mode 1 and the passive sensor scans the target every 1/8 second (924). The scan and sleep times can be different for different photosensors (photodiodes, photoresistors, etc. and their readout circuits). For example, the scan frequency can be every 1/4 second or every 3/4 second. Also, similar to the algorithm shown in FIG. 12, the microcontroller proceeds through the algorithm and then sleeps between each executed cycle. After scanning, the microcontroller measures a sensor level (SL), a value corresponding to the resistance value of the photoresist, in step 925. The microcontroller then compares the sensor level to the background light threshold level (BLTH). If SL is greater than 25% of BLTH, the microcontroller further determines that SL is greater than 85% of BLTH. It is determined whether or not (927). These comparisons determine the level of ambient light, and if SL is greater than 85% of the BLTH calculated in step 912, this means that the room has now suddenly become very dark (947) This causes the microcontroller to enter the Idle state, where every 5 seconds until it detects that SL is less than 80% of BLTH (which means there is now more ambient light (949)). Scan (948). When this is detected, the microcontroller establishes a new BLTH for the room (950) and returns to step 924 to continue scanning the target every 1/8 second using the new BLTH.

  If SL is less than 25% of the previously established BLTH, this means that the light in the room has suddenly increased dramatically (eg due to direct sunlight). The scan counter begins counting (928) to see if this change is stable throughout the five cycles of steps 924, 925, 926, 928, 929. If five cycles have been made under the same conditions, a new BLTH is established at step 930 for the current bright room, and a new cycle is started at step 922 using this new BLTH.

  However, if SL is greater than or equal to 25% of BLTH and less than or equal to 80% of BLTH (in steps 926 and 927), the light is normal light, not in the extreme range, and the micro controller Set SL to zero and check the user again by measuring SL (934) and if the SL is greater than 20% of BLTH and less than 25% of BLTH (20% BLTH <SL <25% BLTH) No is evaluated at step 936. If this is false, this means that there is a user in front of the device sensor because the light is lower than normal ambient light, so the microcontroller goes to step 944 and the user Turn on the water for. When water is turned on, the microcontroller sets the scan counter to zero (946), scans the target every 1/8 second (948), and determines whether SL is less than 20% of BLTH, step 950. By checking with, continue to check high SL, ie low light intensity. When SL decreases to less than 20% of BLTH (which means that the detected light has increased) (950), the microcontroller moves to step 952 and turns on the scan counter. The scan counter goes through steps 948, 950, 952, 954, scans every 1/8 second, and over 5 cycles (954) SL is still less than 20% of BLTH (this is more than the 5 cycles) It will cause the microcontroller to continue to check that there is now an increase in light that lasts for a period of time, meaning that the user no longer exists. When the check is true, the microcontroller turns off the water (956). When the water is turned off, the entire cycle is repeated from the beginning.

  Referring to FIG. 13B (algorithm 1000 for faucet 10), the microcontroller scans the target every 1/8 second (1004), but again the time required between each scan is another time (eg 1 Can be changed every 4 seconds). The microcontroller advances its algorithm and goes to sleep between each cycle, just as in the algorithm shown in FIG. After scanning, the microcontroller measures the sensor level (1006) and compares SL to BLTH. Again, if SL is 25% or more of BLTH, the microcontroller checks whether the SL is 85% or more of BLTH. If this is true, this means that the room must have suddenly darkened (1040). The microcontroller then transitions to Idle mode at step 1042 until it detects that SL is less than 80% of BLTH (which means it is currently detecting more light) (1044). Scan every 5 seconds. Upon detecting that SL is less than 80% of BLTH, the microcontroller establishes a new BLTH for the newly lit room (1046) and returns to step 1004 to use the new BLTH to Start a new cycle.

  If SL is greater than 25% of BLTH and less than 80% of BLTH, the microcontroller continues through step 1015 and sets the scan counter to zero. The microcontroller measures SL at step 1016 and evaluates at step 1017 whether the SL is greater than 20% of BLTH and less than 25% of BLTH (20% BLTH <SL <25% BLTH). . If this is false, this means that something is blocking the light to the sensor, the microcontroller turns on the water (1024), which also turns on the water off timer or WOFF (1026) ). The microcontroller then continues to process a scan of the target every 1/8 second (1028). If a new SL is checked against BLTH and the SL value does not satisfy the condition that it is greater than 20% of BLTH and less than 25% of BLTH, the microcontroller loops back to step 1028. Continue to scan the target and flush with water. If SL is within the range (1030), the WOFF timer starts counting (1032) and loops back to step 1028. The function of the timer is simply to allow some time to elapse between when the user is no longer detected and when the water is turned off. This is because, for example, the user is moving his hand or taking soap and may not be in the field of view of the sensor for some time. The timer (2 seconds) can be variously set according to the use of the apparatus. When 2 seconds have elapsed, the microcontroller turns off the water at step 1036, cycles back to step 1002, and repeats the entire cycle.

  However, if at step 1017 SL is greater than 20% of BLTH and less than 25% of BLTH (20% BLTH <SL <25% BLTH), the microcontroller cycles through steps 1016, 1017, 1018, 1020 The scan counter starts until the circulation exceeds 5 cycles. Then proceed to step 1022 to establish a new BLTH for the light in the room and the microcontroller will cycle back to step 1002 and use the new BLTH to create a new cycle via the algorithm 1000 .

  While various embodiments and implementations of the present invention have been described, it should be understood that the above is for illustrative purposes only, and is not intended to be limiting, but as an illustration of the present invention. It will be understood by the contractor. There are other embodiments or components suitable for the above embodiments, which are described in the application on which the priority of this application is based. The function of any component can be implemented in various ways in alternative embodiments. Also, the function of some components can be performed by fewer or a single component in alternative embodiments.

In the following, exemplary embodiments consisting of combinations of various constituents of the present invention are shown.
1. A system including an optical sensor for controlling a flow valve of an electronic faucet or flush toilet,
An optical element disposed at the light input port and configured and arranged to define a detection field of view having a predetermined size and orientation that eliminates invalid targets;
A photodetector optically coupled to the optical element and the light input port and configured to detect ambient light arriving from the detection field of view;
A control circuit for controlling the opening and closing of the flow valve, wherein the ambient light background is received by receiving a signal from the photodetector corresponding to the detected ambient light and executing a detection algorithm A control circuit configured to determine the opening and closing of the flow valve based on a level and a current level of the ambient light;
A number of predetermined states based on a user's possible movements that cause the detection algorithm to detect an increase or decrease in ambient light detected by the photodetector due to the presence of the user in the detection field of view; A calibration routine that takes into account the size and orientation of the detected field of view defined by an optical element, wherein the predetermined condition is to a detected level due to the user's movement and the stability of the detected ambient light. And the predetermined state is separated by a predetermined period between the states, and the flow valve is opened and closed after a specific series of the predetermined state.
system.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the optical element is further configured to provide the detection field of view tilted below horizontal.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the optical element is further configured to provide the detection field of view that is tilted below horizontal and symmetrical with respect to a toilet or urinal.
4). The system of claim 1, wherein the optical element is further configured to provide the detection field of view that is tilted below horizontal and asymmetric with respect to a toilet or urinal.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein the optical element is further configured to provide the detection field of view tilted below horizontal and above horizontal.
6). The system according to any one of the preceding paragraphs 1 to 5, wherein the photodetector is configured to detect light in the range of 400 to 1000 nm.
7). The system according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the control circuit is configured to periodically sample the photodetector based on a previously detected amount of light.
8). The control circuit according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 5, wherein the control circuit is configured to open and close the flow valve based on detecting the arrival of a user first and then detecting that the user has left. The described system.
9. The system according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 5, wherein the control circuit is configured to open and close the flow valve based on detection of the presence of a user.
10. The system according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 5, wherein the optical element includes an optical fiber.
11. The system according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 5, wherein the optical element includes a lens.
12 The system according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 5, wherein the optical element includes a pinhole.
13. The system according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 5, wherein the optical element includes a slit.
14 The system according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 5, wherein the optical element includes an optical filter.
15. 6. The system according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 5, wherein the light input port is disposed in a faucet ventilation device.
16. 6. The system according to any one of the preceding items 1 to 5, wherein the light input port is disposed adjacent to a faucet ventilation device.
17. The system according to claim 1, wherein the control circuit confirms the arrival of a user after the photodetector detects an increase in the amount of light.
18. The system of claim 1, wherein the flow valve is included in an electronic faucet system.
19. The system according to claim 1, wherein the flow valve is included in a flush toilet system.
20. 20. The system according to item 18 or item 19, wherein the photodetector includes a photodiode.
21. 20. The system according to item 18 or item 19, wherein the photodetector includes a photoresistor.
22. 20. The system according to item 18 or item 19, wherein the optical element and the light input port are configured such that the photodetector receives light in the range of 1 to 1000 lux.
23. A method of controlling an electronic faucet or a flush toilet flow valve using an optical sensor,
An optical element disposed at the light input port and configured and arranged to define a detection field of view having a predetermined size and orientation that eliminates invalid targets;
A photodetector optically coupled to the optical element and the light input port;
Periodically detecting ambient light reaching the photodetector from the detection field of view;
Periodically providing a signal corresponding to the detected ambient light from the photodetector to a control circuit;
The value of the signal that determines several predetermined states based on the user's possible movements that cause detection of an increase or decrease in ambient light detected by the photodetector due to the presence of the user in the detection field of view Performing a detection algorithm and moving to the predetermined state comprising calculating and comparing the signal value in a calibration routine that takes into account the size and orientation of the detection field of view defined by the optical element Is based on a level detected due to user movement and the stability of the detected ambient light, and the predetermined states are separated by a predetermined period between each state;
Providing a control circuit to initiate opening and closing of the flow valve after a certain series of the predetermined conditions;
The control method of a flow valve including each step.
24. 24. The method of controlling a flow valve according to the preceding item 23, including the step of providing the detection field of view tilted below horizontal with the optical element.
25. 24. The method of controlling a flow valve according to the preceding item 23, comprising the step of providing, by the optical element, the detection field of view that is inclined below horizontal and symmetrical with respect to a toilet or urinal.
26. 24. A method for controlling a flow valve as described in 23 above, comprising providing the optical element with the detection field of view that is inclined below horizontal and asymmetric with respect to a toilet or urinal.
27. 24. The method of controlling a flow valve according to the preceding item 23, including the step of providing, by the optical element, the detection field of view that is inclined below the horizontal and above the horizontal.
28. 28. A flow valve according to any one of paragraphs 23 to 27, wherein the control circuit is configured to perform periodic sampling of the photodetector based on a previously detected amount of light. Control method.
29. 28. The preceding clause 23 to 27, wherein the control circuit is configured to adjust a sampling period based on the amount of light detected after determining whether the facility is in use. Flow valve control method.
30. 28. The method for controlling a flow rate valve according to any one of the preceding items 23 to 27, wherein the control circuit is configured to circulate between a sleep period and a measurement period.
31. 24. The method for controlling a flow valve according to item 23, wherein the flow valve is included in an electronic faucet.
32. 24. The method for controlling a flow valve according to item 23, wherein the flow valve is included in a flush toilet.
33. 28. The method for controlling a flow rate valve according to any one of items 23 to 27, wherein the photodetector includes a photodiode.
34. 28. The method of controlling a flow valve according to any one of the preceding items 23 to 27, wherein the photodetector includes a photoresistor.
35. 28. The method of controlling a flow valve according to any one of items 23 to 27, wherein the optical element and the light input port are configured so that the light detector receives light in a range of 1 to 1000 lux. .

1 is a schematic diagram of an automatic faucet system including a control circuit, a valve, and a passive light sensor for controlling water flow. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the spout and sink of the automatic faucet system of FIG. 1 using optical fiber coupling to a passive optical sensor. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the spout and sink of the automatic faucet system of FIG. 1 using electrical coupling to a passive optical sensor. It is sectional drawing of the ventilation apparatus used with the automatic faucet system of FIG. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a venting device used in the automatic faucet system of FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a venting device used in the automatic faucet system of FIG. 1. It is sectional drawing of the ventilation apparatus shown to FIG. 1D. Fig. 6 schematically illustrates another embodiment of an automatic faucet system, including another embodiment of a valve and a passive light sensor for controlling water flow. Fig. 6 schematically illustrates another embodiment of an automatic faucet system, including another embodiment of a valve and a passive light sensor for controlling water flow. 2 schematically illustrates a faucet and sink for different light detection patterns used by the passive light sensor employed in the automatic faucet system of FIGS. 1, 1B, 2 and 2A. 2 schematically illustrates a faucet and sink for different light detection patterns used by the passive light sensor employed in the automatic faucet system of FIGS. 1, 1B, 2 and 2A. 2 schematically illustrates a faucet and sink for different light detection patterns used by the passive light sensor employed in the automatic faucet system of FIGS. 1, 1B, 2 and 2A. 2 schematically illustrates a faucet and sink for different light detection patterns used by the passive light sensor employed in the automatic faucet system of FIGS. 1, 1B, 2 and 2A. 2 schematically illustrates a faucet and sink for different light detection patterns used by the passive light sensor employed in the automatic faucet system of FIGS. 1, 1B, 2 and 2A. It is a side view which shows the outline | summary of the toilet bowl containing an automatic flushing apparatus. It is a side view which shows the outline | summary of the urinal containing an automatic water washing apparatus. It is the side view and top view which show the outline | summary of the different light detection pattern used with the passive optical sensor employ | adopted with the automatic toilet bowl washing apparatus of FIG. It is the side view and top view which show the outline | summary of the different light detection pattern used with the passive optical sensor employ | adopted with the automatic toilet bowl washing apparatus of FIG. It is the side view and top view which show the outline | summary of the different light detection pattern used with the passive optical sensor employ | adopted with the automatic toilet bowl washing apparatus of FIG. It is the side view and top view which show the outline | summary of the different light detection pattern used with the passive optical sensor employ | adopted with the automatic toilet bowl washing apparatus of FIG. It is the side view and top view which show the outline | summary of the different light detection pattern used with the passive optical sensor employ | adopted with the automatic toilet bowl washing apparatus of FIG. It is the side view and top view which show the outline | summary of the different light detection pattern used with the passive optical sensor employ | adopted with the automatic toilet bowl washing apparatus of FIG. It is the side view and top view which show the outline | summary of the different light detection pattern used with the passive optical sensor employ | adopted with the automatic toilet bowl washing apparatus of FIG. It is the side view and top view which show the outline | summary of the different light detection pattern used with the passive optical sensor employ | adopted with the automatic toilet bowl washing apparatus of FIG. It is the side view and top view which show the outline | summary of the different light detection pattern used with the passive optical sensor employ | adopted with the automatic urinal flush device of FIG. 4A. It is the side view and top view which show the outline | summary of the different light detection pattern used with the passive optical sensor employ | adopted with the automatic urinal flush device of FIG. 4A. It is the side view and top view which show the outline | summary of the different light detection pattern used with the passive optical sensor employ | adopted with the automatic urinal flush device of FIG. 4A. It is the side view and top view which show the outline | summary of the different light detection pattern used with the passive optical sensor employ | adopted with the automatic urinal flush device of FIG. 4A. It is the side view and top view which show the outline | summary of the different light detection pattern used with the passive optical sensor employ | adopted with the automatic urinal flush device of FIG. 4A. 5 shows an overview of optical elements used to form the different light detection patterns shown in FIGS. 3D and 5L. 5 shows an overview of optical elements used to form the different light detection patterns shown in FIGS. 3D and 5L. 5 shows an overview of optical elements used to form the different light detection patterns shown in FIGS. 3D and 5L. 5 shows an overview of optical elements used to form the different light detection patterns shown in FIGS. 3D and 5L. 5 shows an overview of optical elements used to form the different light detection patterns shown in FIGS. 3D and 5L. 5 shows an overview of optical elements used to form the different light detection patterns shown in FIGS. 3D and 5L. It is sectional drawing which shows one Embodiment of the automatic flushing apparatus used with a flush toilet and flush toilet. 1B is an exploded perspective view of a valve device used in the automatic faucet system of FIG. 1, FIG. 1A, or FIG. 1B. It is an expanded sectional view of the valve apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 8B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the valve device shown in FIG. 8A, but is partially disassembled for maintenance. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the valve device of FIG. 4 including a leak detector for detecting water leaks in an automatic faucet system. It is an expanded sectional view of the moving piston-like member used with the valve apparatus shown in FIG. 7, or the valve apparatus shown to FIG. 8, FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B. It is a perspective view which shows in detail the moving piston-like member shown in FIG. 2B is a block diagram of a control system for controlling valve operation of the automatic faucet system of FIGS. 1-2A or the flush toilet of FIGS. 4 and 4A. FIG. 2B is a block diagram of another automatic control system for controlling the valve operation of the automatic faucet system of FIGS. 1-2A or the flush toilet of FIGS. 4 and 4A. FIG. It is the schematic of the detection circuit used in the passive optical sensor used with an automatic faucet system or an automatic water washing apparatus system. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating various factors that affect the operation and calibration of a passive optical system. It is a flowchart which shows the algorithm for processing the optical data detected by the passive sensor which operates an automatic water washing system. It is a flowchart which shows the algorithm for processing the optical data detected by the passive sensor which operates an automatic water washing system. It is a flowchart which shows the algorithm for processing the optical data detected by the passive sensor which operates an automatic water washing system. It is a flowchart which shows the algorithm for processing the optical data detected by the passive sensor which operates an automatic water washing system. It is a flowchart which shows the algorithm for processing the optical data detected by the passive sensor which operates an automatic water washing system. It is a flowchart which shows the algorithm for processing the optical data detected by the passive sensor which operates an automatic water washing system. It is a flowchart which shows the algorithm for processing the optical data detected by the passive sensor which operates an automatic water washing system. It is a flowchart which shows the algorithm for processing the optical data detected by the passive sensor which operates an automatic water washing system. It is a flowchart which shows the algorithm for processing the optical data detected by the passive sensor which operates an automatic water washing system. It is a flowchart which shows the algorithm for processing the optical data detected by the passive sensor which operates an automatic water washing system. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an algorithm for processing optical data detected by a passive sensor operating an automatic faucet system. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an algorithm for processing optical data detected by a passive sensor operating an automatic faucet system. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an algorithm for processing optical data detected by a passive sensor operating an automatic faucet system.

Claims (14)

An optical sensor for controlling a flow valve of an electronic faucet or flush toilet,
Is arranged in the optical input port, and an invalid target is constructed and arranged such that the detection field of view to image the constant having a predetermined size and orientation to eliminate an optical element,
A passive light sensor optically coupled to the optical element and the light input port and configured to detect ambient light;
A control circuit for controlling the opening and closing of the flow valve, which can be considered by a user who receives a signal from the passive light sensor corresponding to the detected ambient light and causes detection of increase or decrease of the ambient light. Determining the opening and closing of the flow valve by executing a detection algorithm including a number of predetermined states based on movement, the opening and closing of the flow valve being initiated after a certain series of the predetermined states , A detection algorithm includes a first state in which a user begins to enter the field of view toward the passive light sensor, wherein the first state is a predetermined state from a second state in which the user is moving away from the passive light sensor. A control circuit that is separated by a stable signal over a time interval;
An optical sensor. The optical sensor of claim 1, wherein the control circuit is configured to periodically sample the photosensor based on a previously detected amount of light. Optical sensor, wherein the control circuit, based on the current level of the background level and the ambient light of the ambient light is configured to determine the opening and closing of the flow valve, to claim 1 or claim 2 . The optical sensor according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the optical element includes an optical fiber, a lens, a pinhole, a slit, or an optical filter. Before SL control circuit determines the brightness condition of the equipment, to change the detection frequency of the passive optical sensor according to the determination, the optical sensor according to claim 1. The optical sensor according to claim 5 , wherein the control circuit executes separate algorithms for a light mode, a normal mode, and a dark mode depending on a lighting state in the facility. The optical sensor of claim 1, wherein the passive optical sensor includes a photodiode . The optical sensor of claim 1, wherein the passive optical sensor includes a photoresistor . The optical sensor of claim 1, wherein the passive optical sensor is configured to detect light in the range of 500 nm to 950 nm . An optical sensor for controlling a flow valve of an electronic faucet or flush toilet,
An optical element disposed at the light input port and configured and arranged to define a detection field of view having a predetermined size and orientation that eliminates invalid targets;
A passive light sensor optically coupled to the optical element and the light input port and configured to detect ambient light;
A control circuit for controlling opening and closing of the flow valve, the microcontroller programmed to receive a signal from the passive optical sensor corresponding to the detected ambient light and to start opening and closing the flow valve A control circuit that determines the opening and closing of the flow valve by executing a predetermined detection algorithm;
And the detection algorithm comprises:
Using a stability value corresponding to a change in the detected ambient light within a predetermined period, and a target value corresponding to the light intensity of the detected ambient light relative to the background ambient light,
Determining a user state corresponding to a user behavior in the detection field of view, each user state being determined by both the stability value and the target value;
An optical sensor including each step. The optical sensor of claim 10, wherein the control circuit executes a control algorithm that includes a determination of a light mode, a normal mode, and a dark mode of the photodetector based on the detected ambient light . The optical sensor of claim 10, wherein the control circuit adjusts a sampling period based on previous detection of ambient light. The optical sensor of claim 10, wherein the passive optical sensor comprises a photodiode . The optical sensor of claim 10, wherein the passive optical sensor comprises a photoresistor .

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