WO2022226854A1

WO2022226854A1 - Spray head retraction assembly

Info

Publication number: WO2022226854A1
Application number: PCT/CN2021/090781
Authority: WO
Inventors: Si HE; Perry D. Erickson; Jacob Frye; Ryan Leichty
Original assignee: Kohler Co.
Priority date: 2021-04-28
Filing date: 2021-04-28
Publication date: 2022-11-03

Abstract

A faucet assembly includes a faucet (100) and a retraction assembly (150). The faucet (100) includes a spray head (106) and a hose (136). The spray head (106) and the hose (136) are both operable between a retracted position and an extended position. The retraction assembly (150) includes a rail (152) and a bracket (154) slidably coupled to the rail (152). The rail (152) includes a first rail end (161) and a second rail end (163) opposite to the first rail end (161). The bracket (154) is coupled to the rail (152) such that the bracket (154) is slidable between the first rail end (161) and the second rail end (163). The bracket (154) is also coupled to, and in some embodiments rigidly coupled to, the hose (136) such that the hose (136) and the bracket (154) move simultaneously. The bracket (154) slides along the rail (152) in response to the spray head (106) transitioning between the retracted position and the extended position.

Description

SPRAY HEAD RETRACTION ASSEMBLY

BACKGROUND

The present application relates generally to the field of kitchen fixtures. In particular, the present application relates to an assembly for retracting a spray head into a spout for docking.

Conventionally, a faucet with a removable spray head connected to a hose may include a counterweight on the hose positioned beneath the faucet to apply a force on the hose to retract the spray head toward the spout. The counterweight provides a substantially constant retraction force for biasing the spray head toward the spout, but does not prevent the hose from disturbing items stored beneath a sink, where the hose is stored. Other biasing mechanisms (e.g., springs) increase in resistance as the hose is withdrawn and therefore do not provide the desirable constant retraction force.

SUMMARY

At least one embodiment relates to a faucet assembly. The faucet assembly includes a faucet and a retraction assembly. The faucet includes a spray head and a hose. The spray head and the hose are both operable between a retracted position and an extended position. The retraction assembly includes a rail and a bracket slidably coupled to the rail. The rail includes a first rail end and a second rail end opposite to the first rail end. The bracket is coupled to the rail such that the bracket is slidable between the first rail end and the second rail end. The bracket is also coupled to, and in some embodiments rigidly coupled to, the hose such that the hose and the bracket move simultaneously. The bracket slides along the rail in response to the spray head transitioning between the retracted position and the extended position.

Another embodiment relates to a retraction assembly. The retraction assembly comprises a rail, a bracket slidably coupled to the rail, and a biasing member coupled to the bracket. The rail includes a first rail end and a second rail end opposite to the first rail end. The bracket is slidably along the rail between the first rail end and the second rail end. The bracket is configured for coupling with a hose of a faucet such that the hose and the bracket move simultaneously. The biasing member is coupled to the bracket and configured to apply a force to the bracket in a direction substantially toward the first rail end. The bracket slides along the rail in response to the spray head transitioning away from a retracted position.

This summary is illustrative only and should not be regarded as limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The disclosure will become more fully understood from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a faucet with a spray head in a retracted position, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the faucet of FIG. 1 in an extended position;

FIG. 3 is a side, cross-sectional view of the faucet of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the faucet of FIG. 1 operably coupled with a spray head retraction assembly, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 5, is a cross-sectional view of the spray head retraction assembly of FIG. 4 about the line AA;

FIG. 6 is a detailed perspective view of the spray head retraction assembly of FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the faucet and the spray head retraction assembly of FIG. 4 mounted proximate to a wash basin, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a spray head retraction assembly, according to an example embodiment, operably coupled with the faucet of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a detailed view of the spray head retraction assembly of FIG. 8 through view window BB;

FIG. 10 is a detailed view of the spray head retraction assembly of FIG. 8 through view window CC;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the spray head retraction assembly of FIG. 8 about line DD;

FIG. 12 is a side view of a portion of the spray head retraction assembly of FIG. 8;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a spray head retraction assembly, according to an example embodiment, operably coupled with the faucet of FIG. 1;

FIG. 14 is a detailed view of the spray head retraction assembly of FIG. 13 in a retracted position, shown through view window EE;

FIG. 15 is a detailed view of the spray head retraction assembly of FIG. 13 in an extended position, shown through view window EE;

FIG. 16 is a detailed view of the spray head retraction assembly of FIG. 13 having a damper assembly according to an example embodiment, shown through view window EE;

FIG. 17 is a detailed view of the spray head retraction assembly of FIG. 13 having the damper assembly of FIG. 16, shown through view window EE;

FIG. 18 is a side view of a portion of the spray head retraction assembly of FIG. 13;

FIG. 19 is a detailed view of a portion of the spray head retraction assembly of FIG. 13, shown through view window GG;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a portion of the portion of the spray head retraction assembly of FIG. 19, shown through view window GG;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a spray head retraction assembly, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 22 is a front view of a portion of the spray head retraction assembly of FIG. 21, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a portion of the spray head retraction assembly of FIG. 21, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional side view of the portion of the spray head retraction assembly of FIG. 22, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional front view of the portion of the spray head retraction assembly of FIG. 22 along line AA of FIG. 24, according to an example embodiment; and

FIG. 26 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the portion of the spray head retraction assembly of FIG. 22 along line BB of FIG. 24, according to an example embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before turning to the figures, which illustrate certain exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.

Referring generally to the FIGURES, a faucet having a spray head retraction assembly (i.e., system) is shown according to various exemplary embodiments. The faucet includes a body, a spout, and a spray head releasably coupled (e.g., removably coupled, selectively coupled, etc. ) to the spout. A hose carries fluid through the spout to the spray head, where the fluid is ejected (e.g., released, sprayed, output) to the environment, for example, into a basin, sink, tub, or shower stall.

The faucet shown in FIG. 1 is shown in a retracted (e.g., first, docked, etc. ) position, in which the spray head is coupled to and received in the spout. According to the present disclosure, a spray head retraction assembly is configured to retract the spray head from an extended position to the retracted position.

A faucet 100 includes a base 102, a spout 104, and a spray head 106 removably coupled to (e.g., received in, engaging, etc. ) the spout 104. The faucet 100 is shown to include an arm 108 configured to house and support a manual valve (not shown) . The valve may be configured to control the volume, temperature, or some combination thereof, of the fluid (e.g., water, beverage, etc. ) flow through the faucet 100. A handle 120 is coupled to the valve to control the operation thereof. According to other embodiments, the faucet 100 may not include an arm 108, and the valve and handle 120 may be located remotely from the faucet 100. According to various other embodiments, the faucet 100 may include an electronically controlled valve (e.g., solenoid valve) in addition to or instead of the manual valve.

Referring now to FIG. 2, the faucet 100 is shown in an extended positon. The faucet 100 is operable to transition between the retracted position and the extended position. In some embodiments, the faucet 100 includes a fully extended position (e.g., a position in which the hose 136 may no longer be extended) and a plurality of partially extended positions (e.g., a position between the fully extended position and the retracted position) . In some embodiments, a retraction assembly applies a force (e.g., constant force, variable force) to the hose 136 and the spray head 106 in the direction of the retracted position. Thus, if a user is using the spray head 106 in an extended position (e.g., partially extended position) , release of the spray head 106 by the user will result in the spray head 106 moving toward the retracted positon and re-coupling to the spout 104.

Referring to FIG. 3, the base 102 includes a sidewall 122, extending between a first or bottom end 124 to a second or top end 126, and an axially extending cavity 128. The bottom end 124 is configured to provide stable support to the faucet 100 when coupled to a first surface 170 (e.g., countertop, wall, bar, table, support structure, etc. ) , as shown in FIG. 8. A shank 130 (e.g., stem) may be coupled (e.g., threadably coupled) to the bottom end 124 and extend through the first surface 170. A clamping mechanism 132 is coupled to the shank 130 and configured to couple the shank 130 to an opposite side (e.g., underside, inside, etc. ) of the first surface 170. According to an exemplary embodiment, the first surface 170 is a sink or countertop over a cabinet, the countertop receiving the sink therein.

Referring still to FIG. 3, the sidewall 122 is shown to at least partially define the cavity 128, which is configured to receive and permit the passage therethrough of water lines (not shown) . For example, the cavity 128 may receive a cold water line (not shown) and a hot water line (not shown) . The faucet 100 further includes an outlet line, shown as hose 136, according to an exemplary embodiment. The hose 136 is configured to carry water through the spout 104 to the spray head 106 and is sufficiently flexible to permit the hose 136 to travel through the shape of the spout 104 while the spray head 106 is moved between the docked and undocked position. According to the exemplary embodiment shown, the hose 136 extends from a first or inlet end 138, which fluidly couples to the valve, to a second or outlet end 140, which fluidly couples to the spray head 106.

Further referring to FIG. 3, the spray head 106 includes a sidewall 144 extending between a first or inlet end 146 and a second or outlet end 148. The spray head 106 transfers fluid from the hose 136 to an outlet port. For example, the spray head 106 may include an aerator and one or more non-aerated nozzles. A diverter mechanism controlled by a switch may transition the flow between modes, e.g., divert flow to the aerator, to the nozzles, or pause the flow of fluid through the spray head 106.

The spout 104 includes a sidewall 160 extending from a first or bottom end 162 to a second or top end 164. The bottom end 162 couples to the top end 126 of the base 102. According to other embodiments, the spout 104 may be fixed to the base 102, but according to the embodiment shown, the spout 104 is rotatably coupled to the base 102 to provide direction and range of the outlet flow of fluid to the environment, i.e., provides a greater usable work area. The top end 164 is configured to releasably couple to the spray head 106.

Referring now to FIG. 4, a spray head retraction assembly 150 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The retraction assembly 150 includes a rail 152 (e.g., guide rail) , a bracket 154 movably coupled to rail 152, and a biasing member 156 operably coupled to the bracket 154. The bracket 154 is also coupled to the hose 136 such that movement of the hose 136 translates to movement of the bracket 154, and vice versa. When a user pulls on the spray head 106 to transition the spray head 106 out of the retracted position, the hose 136 is pulled through the spout 104 and the bracket 154 moves along the rail 152 toward the base 102. When the user releases the spray head 106, the biasing member 156 applies a force to the bracket 154 in a direction away from the base 102 such that the bracket 154 moves away from the base 102 along the rail 152. The hose 136 is then retracted though the spout 104 and the spray head 106 transitions toward the spout 104.

The rail 152 includes a first rail end 161 and a second rail end 163 positioned opposite to the first rail end 161. The bracket 154 is movably coupled to the rail 152 such that the bracket 154 may move between the first rail end 161 and the second rail end 163.

The rail 152 further defines a profile (e.g., path) between the first rail end 161 and the second rail end 163. The rail 152 may define most any continuous path between first rail end 161 and the second rail end 163. As shown in FIG. 4, the rail 152 includes a first rail portion 166 extending away from the first rail end 161, a second rail portion 168 extending away from the second rail end 163, and a bend portion 171 (e.g., third portion) positioned between and contiguous with both the first rail portion 166 and the second rail portion 168. As shown, the bend portion 171 facilitates an approximately 90-degree bend between the first rail portion 166 and the second rail portion 168. In some embodiments, the rail 152 extends linearly away from the shank 130 such that the rail 152 does not include the bend portion 171. In some embodiments, the bend portion 171 facilitates a 180-degree angle between the first rail portion 166 and the second rail portion 168 such that the rail 152 defines a substantially U-shaped profile. The rail 152 may define most any profile between the first rail end 161 and the second rail end 163 such that the hose 136 does not get tangled with or caught in objects positioned below the sink, such as bottles, drainage plumbing, and the like. The rail 152 may be adjusted depending on a needed profile for the installation. In some embodiments, a linear rail 152 is needed. In some embodiments, the rail 152 having the bend portion 171 is needed. In some embodiments, multiple bend portions 171 may be required, all bent at different angles and different radius of bending.

Positioned along an inner curve (e.g., intrados) of the bend portion 171 is a plurality of rollers 172 configured to engage the hose 136 and the biasing member 156 as the faucet 100 transitions between the extended position and the retracted position. Friction between the rail 152 and the hose 136 may cause the hose 136 to wear down and tear. The added friction may also increase the force required to transition the faucet 100 between the retracted positon and the extended position. The rollers 172 engage the hose 136 and guide the hose 136 along the extrados of the bend portion 171 to ease the transition of the hose between the first rail portion 166 and the second rail portion 168.

A mounting bracket 164 is coupled to the rail 152 at the second rail end 163 and is configured for coupling with at least one of the shank 130, the base 102, and the surface 170. The mounting bracket 164 may be coupled to the faucet 100 using adhesives, threaded couplings, fasteners, latches, and the like. In some embodiments, the rail 152 is coupled to a surface under the faucet 100, such as a wall or cabinet, such that the rail 152 is not directly coupled to the faucet 100. The mounting bracket 164 also behaves as a stop to prevent the bracket 154 from sliding off of the rail 152 proximate to the second rail end 163.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a cross-sectional view of the rail 152 and the bracket 154 is shown along the line AA of FIG. 4. The rail 152 defines a channel 180 that extends between the first rail end 161 and the second rail end 163 and is configured to receive the hose 136. The channel 180 is defined by a base wall 182 (e.g., first wall) and a pair of sidewalls 184, 186 (e.g., a second wall and a third wall) . The base wall 182 and the

sidewalls

184, 186 cooperate to define a substantially U-shaped and/or C-shaped cross-sectional shape.

The bracket 154 includes a substantially planar bracket body 190 having a pair of

bracket legs

192, 194 extending substantially orthogonally from the bracket body 190. The pair of

bracket legs

192, 194 are configured to engage the

sidewalls

184, 186 of the rail 152 such that the bracket 154 is slidable along the rail 152. Extending inward from each of the

legs

192, 194 is a

projection

196, 198 that engages a pair of

grooves

200, 202 that extend toward the channel 180 and along the length of the rail 152.

Extending from a central portion 204 of the bracket body 190 is a clamp 206 configured for coupling with the hose 136. The clamp 206 includes a pair of

fingers

208, 210 defining crescent shapes that extend away from the bracket body 190 in a direction similar to the

legs

192, 194. In some embodiments, the clamp 206 is structured to be clamped, unclamped, and reclamped such that the hose 136 is adjustable relative to the bracket 154. Specifically, the bracket 154 is adjustable along the length of the hose 136 such that the tension on the hose 136 is adjustable to ensure that the spray head 106 is in the retracted position when the retraction assembly 150 is in the retracted position (e.g., the bracket 154 is proximate to the first rail end 161) .

Referring to FIG. 6, a fixture 220 (e.g., flange, chassis, etc. ) is coupled to the rail 152 at the first rail end 161 . The fixture 220 is configured to support the biasing member 156 while the hose 136 is transitioned between the retracted position and the extended position. The fixture 220 includes a first member 222 and a second member 224 that extend away from the first rail end 161 in a direction opposite to the second rail end 163. The first member 222 and the second member 224 have a lobe-like profile and cooperate to support and protect the biasing member 156. The biasing member 156 may be sensitive and susceptible to damage from blunt force, debris, and misalignment. The first member 222 and the second member 224 provide protection and guidance to the biasing member 156. Extending through the first member 222 is a first aperture 226 and extending through the second member 224 is a second aperture 228 (hidden in FIG. 6) . The first aperture 226 and the second aperture 228 cooperate to define a fixture axis 230. The biasing member 156 may be coupled to the fixture 220 about the fixture axis 230. In some embodiments, the biasing member 156 is a constant force spring (e.g., clock spring) and is configured to apply a substantially constant force to the hose 136 when the hose 136 is in all of the retracted position, the fully extended position, and any one of plurality of partially extended positions (e.g., between the retracted position and the fully extended position) . In some embodiments, a free end 155 of the constant force spring is coupled to the bracket 154. In some embodiments, the biasing member 156 is similar to a badge reel, where a constant force spring is housed entirely within a housing of the biasing member 156, and a sting (e.g., thread, line, etc. ) extends from the biasing member 156 and is coupled to the bracket 154. In some embodiments, the biasing member 156 is a torsion spring, an extension spring, a compression spring, or the like. The biasing member 156 is coupled to the bracket 154 and is configured to bias the bracket 154 toward the first rail end 161.

The retraction assembly 150 further includes a soft-close assembly 240. The soft-close assembly 240 is configured to prevent the spray head 106 from retracting into the spout 104 too quickly and striking the spout 104 with great force. For example, the biasing member 156 may provide so much force that the bracket 154 moves quickly toward the first rail end 161, causing the spray head 106 to strike and break either the spray head 106 or the spout 104. The soft-close assembly 240 includes a damper flange 242 coupled to the rail 152, a damper 244 coupled to the damper flange 242, and an engagement body 246 (FIG, 5) coupled to the bracket 154 and extending toward the damper 244 when the retraction assembly 150 is in the first position. While the damper flange 242 is shown coupled to the rail 152 proximate to the first rail end 161, it should be understood that the damper flange 242 may extend from other positions along the rail 152. In some embodiments, the damper flange 242 is optional and the damper 244 is coupled directly to a surface proximate to the rail 152, such as a wall or cabinet wall. The damper flange 242 includes a flange offset 270 structured to position the damper 244 away from the path of the hose 136 when the hose 136 transitions between the retracted position and the extended position.

The damper 244 is a rotational damper configured to provide resistance in a rotational direction. In some embodiments, the damper 244 is a unidirectional rotational damper configured to provide resistance in a single rotational direction while rotating substantially freely in the opposite rotational direction. As shown in FIG. 6, the damper 244 is a unidirectional damper configured to resist, but not prevent, rotational movement in the rotational direction marked by arrow α. Accordingly, the damper 244 does not resist the motion of the bracket 154 as the hose 136 is transitioned out of the retracted position, but the damper 244 does resist the motion of the bracket 154 as the hose 136 transitions into the retracted position. In some embodiments, the biasing member 156 and the damper 244 cooperate to provide a “soft close” feature and are calibrated relative to one another to achieve the desired movement proximate to the first rail end 161.

The engagement body 246 (e.g., rack, planar gear teeth, etc. ) extends orthogonally away from the bracket body 190 in a direction opposite to the pair of

bracket legs

192, 194 and opposite to the clamp 206. The engagement body 246 is configured to engage with the damper 244 when the faucet 100 is in the retracted position. The damper 244 and the engagement body 246 may be a rack and pinion assembly.

Referring now to FIG. 7, the faucet 100 is shown coupled to the surface 170 and the retraction assembly 150 is shown positioned below the surface 170. In some embodiments, drain plumbing 252 may be positioned below the faucet 100 and may interfere with the hose 136 as the faucet is transitioned between the retracted position and the extended position. The rail 152 allows the hose 136 to be directed away from the drain plumbing 252 to avoid snagging and binding that may resist or prevent the retraction and extension of the hose 136.

Referring now to FIG. 8, a spray head retraction assembly 350 is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. The retraction assembly 350 is similar to the retraction assembly 150. A difference between the retraction assembly 350 and the retraction assembly 150 is that the retraction assembly 350 includes a weight coupled to the hose 136 that applies a gravitational force to the hose 136 to transition the hose 136 toward the retracted position. The retraction assembly 350 includes a rail 352 (e.g., guide rail) , a bracket 354 movably coupled to rail 352, and a weight 356 (e.g., mass) coupled to the bracket 354. The bracket 354 is also coupled to the hose 136 such that movement of the hose 136 translates to movement of the bracket 354, and vice versa. When a user pulls on the spray head 106, the hose 136 is pulled through the spout 104 and the bracket 354 moves along the rail 352 toward the base 102. When the user releases the spray head 106, the weight 356 applies a gravitational force to the bracket 354 in a direction away from the base 102 such that the bracket 354 moves away from the base 102 along the rail 352. The spray head 106 is then retracted into the spout 104.

The rail 352 includes a first rail end 361 and a second rail end 362 positioned opposite to the first rail end 361. The bracket 354 is movably coupled to the rail 352 such that the bracket 354 may move between the first rail end 361 and the second rail end 362. A mounting bracket 364 is coupled to the rail 352 at the second rail end 362 and is configured for coupling with at least one of the shank 130, the base 102, and the surface 170. The mounting bracket 364 may be coupled to the faucet 100 using adhesives, threaded couplings, fasteners, latches, and the like. In some embodiments, the rail 352 is coupled to a surface under the faucet 100, such as a wall or cabinet, such that the rail 352 is not directly coupled to the faucet 100.

The rail 352 further defines a profile (e.g., path) between the first rail end 361 and the second rail end 362. As shown, the rail 352 is substantially linear and does not include any bends. In some embodiments, the rail 352 may define most any continuous path between first rail end 361 and the second rail end 362. For example, the rail 352 may be bent to avoid drain plumbing, containers, and shelves positioned below the faucet 100.

Extending into the rail 352 is a channel 360. The channel 360 extends lengthwise along the rail 352 and includes a first channel end 373 positioned proximate to the first rail end 361 and the channel 360 includes a second channel end 374 positioned proximate to the second rail end 362. The channel 360 is depressed within the rail 352 and is configured to guide the movement of the bracket 354.

Referring now to FIG. 9, a detailed portion of the retraction assembly 350 from view window BB of FIG. 8 is shown. The bracket 354 defines a pair of apertures extending through the bracket 354 and having central axes that extend substantially parallel to one another. A first bracket aperture 366 extends through a main bracket body 368 of the bracket 354 and is configured to receive the hose 136 such that the hose 136 may slide freely through the first bracket aperture 366. In some embodiments, the hose 136 is selectively coupled to the main bracket body 368, such as with a set screw, latches, clamp, and the like. In some embodiments, a first hose coupling 370 and a second hose coupling 372 are coupled to the hose 136, the first hose coupling 370 coupled to the hose 136 downstream from the main bracket body 368, and the second hose coupling 372 coupled to the hose 136 upstream from the main bracket body 368. The first hose coupling 370 and the second hose coupling 372 are configured to fix the position of the bracket 354 relative to the hose 136 such that movement of the hose 136 translates to movement of the bracket 354.

Coupled to the main bracket body 368 and positioned about the hose 136 is the weight 356. The weight 356 is coupled to the main bracket body 368 with fasteners 375 that extend through the main bracket body 368 and thread into the weight 356. The weight 356 may be coupled to the hose 136 between the first hose coupling 370 and the second hose coupling 372 to prevent translational movement of the weight 356 along the hose 136. The weight 356 may be formed of metal, stone, sand, and the like such that the mass of the weight 356 may influence the movement of the hose 136 and the spray head 106. The weight 356 may define an aperture 376 that extends along the length of the weight 356 and is substantially concentric with the first bracket aperture 366 such that the hose 136 may slide freely through both the main bracket body 368 and the weight 356. In some embodiments, neither of the bracket 354 and the weight 356 are directly coupled to the hose 136. Instead, the first hose coupling 370 and the second hose coupling 372 are coupled to the hose 136 and prevent the bracket 354 and the weight 356 from moving translationally along the hose 136.

A second bracket aperture 378 extends through a peripheral portion of the bracket 354, defined by a first bracket flange 380 and a second bracket flange 382. The second bracket aperture 378 extends substantially parallel to the first bracket aperture 366. The second bracket aperture 378 is configured to receive the rail 352 such that the rail 352 is slidable through both the first bracket flange 380 and the second bracket flange 382. Positioned between the first bracket flange 380 and the second bracket flange 382 is a detent assembly 384. The detent assembly 384 is configured to facilitate movement of the bracket 354 along the rail 352. The detent assembly 384 includes a retainer ring 386, a detent 388 positioned within the retainer ring 386, and a biasing member 390 positioned about the retainer ring 386 and engaging the detent 388. The retainer ring 386 is positioned about the rail 352 and is positioned between the first bracket flange 380 and the second bracket flange 382 such that movement of the bracket 354 results in movement of the retainer ring 386. Extending through the retainer ring 386 is a detent aperture 392 configured to receive the detent 388. In some embodiments, the detent aperture 392 is substantially square shaped such that rotation of the detent 388 within the detent aperture 392 is prevented. In some embodiments, the detent aperture 392 is a non-circular aperture. In some embodiments, the detent aperture 392 is circular.

The detent 388 extends into the channel 360 to facilitate movement of the bracket 354 along the rail 352. The biasing member 390 applies a force to the detent 388 in the direction of the rail 352 to maintain the detent 388 within the channel 360. The biasing member 390 may be a rubber band, an O-ring, a spring, and the like.

Referring now to FIG. 10, a detailed portion of the retraction assembly 350 from view window CC of FIG. 8 is shown. Specifically, a detailed view of the channel 360 is shown. The channel 360 is defined by a channel surface 400 positioned radially inward from an external surface 402 of the rail 352, and the channel 360 is defined by a pair of sidewalls 404 that extend perpendicularly away from the channel surface 400 and extend along the length of the channel 360 between the first channel end 373 and the second channel end 374. The pair of sidewalls 404 are contiguous with the channel surface 400 and the external surface 402. The detent 388 partially extends into the channel 360 between the pair of sidewalls 404 and engages with the channel surface 400 (FIG. 11) . Referring to FIG. 11, a cross-section of the detent assembly 384 is shown along line DD of FIG. 8. In some embodiments, the detent 388 tappers as the detent 388 extends toward the channel surface 400. In some embodiments, the portion of the detent 388 that engages the biasing member 390, shown as a detent groove 391, has a wider cross-section that the portion of the detent 388 positioned within the channel 360, shown as a detent projection 393.

Referring again to FIG. 10, as the bracket 354 moves along the rail 352 between the first rail end 361 and the second rail end 362, the retainer ring 386 slides along the rail 352 and the detent 388 (e.g., the detent projection 393) slides within the channel 360. Positioned within the channel 360 and extending radially away from the channel surface 400 is a channel projection 406 configured to engage the detent 388 and allow movement of the detent 388 through the channel 360 in a single direction. The channel projection 406 includes a ramp 408 and a stop 410. As the detent 388 travels along the channel 360 in the direction of the arrow β, the detent 388 engages the ramp 408 and is biased radially away from the channel surface 400. The detent 388 is simultaneously biased by the biasing member 390 that applies a force to the detent 388 in the direction of the channel surface 400. As the detent 388 passes over the channel projection 406, the biasing member 390 biases the detent 388 into the channel surface 400. For example, as a user pulls on the spray head 106, the detent 388 may pass over the channel projection 406 and make a clicking noise (e.g., snapping noise, etc. ) when the detent 388 passes over the ramp 408 and is quickly biased into the channel surface 400. If the user then releases the spray head 106, the mass of the weight 356 applies a gravitational force on the hose 136 in a direction along the channel 360 and opposite to the arrow β. The stop 410 is structured to engage the detent 388 to prevent motion of the detent 388, and thus the bracket 354, along the channel 360 in the direction opposite to the arrow β. The stop 410 extends substantially orthogonally away from the channel surface 400 and is contiguous with the ramp 408. The stop 410 is configured to engage the detent 388 without biasing the detent away from the channel surface 400. Thus, the bracket 354 may be positioned between the first rail end 361 and the second rail end 362 without a user applying a force to the spray head 106 This allows the spray head 106 to be maintained in a partially extended position without the user having to apply a force to the spray head 106 to counter the gravitational force applied on the hose 136 by the weight 356.

Referring now to FIG. 12, a side view of the rail 352 is shown. The channel 360 may include a plurality of channel projections 406 that extend from the channel surface 400 and are configure to maintain the hose 136 in a partially extended position. The channel 360 includes a first channel projection 412, a second channel projection 414, a third channel projection 416, and a fourth channel projection 418 positioned within the channel 360. As the bracket 354 moves along the channel 360 in the direction of the arrow β, the detent 388 may make a clicking noise as the detent 388 passes over each of the channel projections 412, 414, 416, 418 and is biased into the channel surface 400 by the biasing member 390. In this way, the user of the retraction assembly 350 may hear or feel that the bracket 354 passed by a channel projection 406, and may release the spray head 106 at a desired extended position.

The channel 360 defines a one-way (e.g., unidirectional) path that is traversed by the bracket 354 in a single direction. The channel 360 defines two portions, shown as a first channel portion 422 and a second channel portion 424. The first channel portion 422 of the channel 360 is configured to allow movement of the bracket 354 along the rail 352 in the direction of the arrow β while preventing movement of the bracket 354 in the direction opposite to the arrow β through use of the channel projections 406.

At the second channel end 374, the first channel portion 422 and the second channel portion 424 are joined together. The second channel end 374 is configured to receive the detent 388 and prevent the detent 388 from traversing further in the direction of the arrow β. In other words, when the detent 388 is positioned at the second channel end 374, the hose 136 and the spray head 106 are in a fully extended position. Separating the first channel portion 422 from the second channel portion 424 at the second channel end 374 is a channel step 420. The channel step 420 is similar to the stop 410 in that the channel step 420 extends orthogonally from the channel surface 400 and prevents the detent 388 from entering the first channel portion 422. The channel step 420 extends radially toward the central axis of the rail 352 from the channel surface 400 of the first channel portion 422 to the channel surface 400 of the second channel portion 424. After the detent 388 passes over the channel step 420, the detent 388 is positioned within the second channel portion 424 and is configured to travel toward the first channel end 373 within the second channel portion 424 in the direction of the arrow γ (gamma) . At the first channel end 373, the first channel portion 422 and the second channel portion 424 are joined. When the detent 388 is positioned at the first channel end 373, the hose 136 and the spray head 106 are in the retracted position. Separating the first channel portion 422 from the second channel portion 424 proximate to the first channel end 373 is another channel step 420, shown in detail in FIG. 9. The channel step 420 is similar to the stop 410 in that the channel step 420 extends orthogonally from the channel surface 400 and prevents the detent 388 from entering the second channel portion 424. The channel step 420 extends radially toward the central axis of the rail 352 from the channel surface 400 of the second channel portion 424 to the channel surface 400 of the first channel portion 422. After the detent 388 passes over the channel step 420 proximate to the first channel end 373, the detent 388 is positioned within the first channel portion 422 and is configured to travel toward the second channel end 374 within the first channel portion 422 in the direction of the arrow β. In general, the channel 360 is a unidirectional closed loop that facilitates the movement of the detent 388, and thus the movement of the bracket 354, between the extended position and the retracted position.

The channel projections 412, 414, 416, 418 are optional and are not required to maintain the unidirectional closed-loop of the channel. In some embodiments, the channel 360 includes more or fewer channel projections 406 which are configured to maintain the hose 136, and thus the faucet 100, in a plurality of partially extended positions.

Referring now to FIG. 13, a spray head retraction assembly 550 is shown, according to an example embodiment. The retraction assembly 550 is similar to the retraction assembly 350. Accordingly, like parts are labeled with like numbering. The retraction assembly 550 includes a rail 352, a bracket 354, and a weight 356. The rail 352 includes a first rail end 361 and a second rail end 362 opposite to the first rail end. The bracket 554 is movably coupled to the rail 552 such that the bracket 554 may move between the first rail end 361 and the second rail end 362. A mounting bracket 564 (FIGS. 19 and 20) is coupled to the rail 552 at the second rail end 562 and is configured for coupling with at least one of the shank 130, the base 102, and the surface 170. The mounting bracket 364 may be coupled to the faucet 100 using adhesives, threaded couplings, fasteners, latches, and the like. In some embodiments, the rail 552 is coupled to a surface under the faucet, such as a wall or cabinet, such that the rail 552 is not directly coupled to the faucet 100.

Extending into the rail 552 is a channel 660. The channel 660 extends lengthwise along the rail 552 and includes a first channel end 662 positioned proximate to the first rail end 560 and the channel 660 includes a second channel end 664 positioned proximate to the second rail end 562. The channel 660 is depressed within the rail 552 and is configured to guide the movement of the bracket 554.

The bracket 554 is slidably coupled to the rail 552 and pivotally coupled to the weight 556.

The bracket 554 includes a first bracket flange 555 and a second bracket flange 557 having a first bracket aperture 559 extending through both the first bracket flange 555 and the second bracket flange 557 and configured to receive the rail 552. The first bracket aperture 559 is configured to receive the rail 552 such that the rail 552 is slidable through both the first bracket flange 555 and the second bracket flange 557. Positioned between the first bracket flange 555 and the second bracket flange 557 is a detent assembly 584. The detent assembly 584 is configured to facilitate movement of the bracket 554 along the rail 552. The detent assembly 584 includes a retainer ring 586, a detent 588 positioned within the retainer ring 586, and a biasing member 590 positioned about the retainer ring 586 and engaging the detent 588. The detent assembly 584 is substantially similar to the detent assembly 384. The retainer ring 586 is positioned about the rail 552 and is positioned between the first bracket flange 555 and the second bracket flange 557 such that movement of the bracket 554 results in movement of the retainer ring 586. Extending through the retainer ring 586 is a detent aperture 592 configured to receive the detent 588. In some embodiments, the detent aperture 592 is substantially square shaped such that rotation of the detent 588 within the detent aperture 592 is prevented. In some embodiments, the detent aperture 592 is a non-circular aperture. In some embodiments, the detent aperture 592 is circular.

The detent 388 extends into the channel 660 to facilitate movement of the bracket 554 along the rail 552. The biasing member 590 applies a force to the detent 588 in the direction of the rail 552 to maintain the detent 588 within the channel 660. The biasing member 590 may be a rubber band, an O-ring, a spring, and the like.

A difference between the bracket 554 and the bracket 354 is that the bracket 554 includes a pair of slots that are configured to pivotally couple the weight 556 to the bracket 554. The bracket 554 further includes a third flange 565 and a fourth flange 567 extending orthogonally away from a substantially planar bracket base 568. The third flange 565 and the fourth flange 567 extend substantially parallel to one another and define substantially parallel slots, shown as a first slot 570 extending through the third flange 565 and second slot 573 extending through the fourth flange 567. Extending through all of the first slot 570, the second slot 573, and the weight 556 is a weight pin 575 that engages the third flange 565 and the fourth flange 567 and is pivotally coupled with the bracket 554. Proximate to the weight pin 575, the weight 556 defines a flat spot 576 on either side of the weight 556, the flat spot 576 configured to interface with the third flange 565 and configured to prevent the weight 556 from rotating relative to the bracket 554 about an axis concentric with the hose 136. The flat spot 576 abuts the third flange 565 such that the weight 556 is prevented from rotating in a direction where the weight pin 575 would be removed from either of the first slot 570 or the second slot 573.

The weight pin 575 is configured to facilitate rotation of the weight 556 relative to the bracket 554 about a central axis of the weight pin 575. This prevents potential binding between the rail 552, the bracket 554, the weight 556, and the hose 136. The weight 556 may include an aperture that extends through the weight 556 and is configured to receive the hose 136. In some embodiments, the weight 556 is coupled to the hose 136, such as with a set screw, adhesives, clamps, latches, and the like. In some embodiments, a hose clamp 578 is coupled to the hose 136 upstream from the weight 556 such that the hose clamp 578 applies a force to the weight 556 when the hose 136 is moving to an extended position. In some embodiments, the weight 556 applies a force to the hose clamp 578, and thus the hose 136, when the weight is facilitating movement of the hose to a retracted position.

Referring now to FIGS. 14 and 15, a detailed portion of the retraction assembly 550 from view window EE of FIG. 13 is shown. The retraction assembly 550 includes a damping system 600 coupled to the rail 552 proximate to the first rail end 560. The damping system 600 is configured to reduce the speed at which the spray head 106 and the hose 136 retract just before the spray head 106 and the hose 136 reach the retracted position. The damping system 600 includes a sleeve 602, a biasing member 604, and a pin 606. The sleeve 602 is positioned around the rail 552 proximate to the first rail end 560 and is configured to freely rotate about and slide relative to the rail 552. Extending through the sleeve 602 is an elongate slot 608 that receives the pin 606. The elongate slot 608 includes a first slot end 610 and a second slot end 612. The slot 608 extends between the first slot end 610 and the second slot end 612 at a variety of angles relative to a central axis 614 of the sleeve 602. As shown in FIG. 15, the slot 608 extends along the sleeve 602 at an angle θ (theta) relative to the central axis 614. Proximate to the second slot end 612, the angle of the slot 608 is greater than angle θ. The greater angle of the slot 608 proximate to the second slot end 612 results in a greater deceleration of the hose 136 as the hose 136 retracts toward the retracted position.

When the hose 136 is in the fully extended position, the bracket 554 and the weight 556 are position proximate to the second rail end 562. When a user releases the spray head 106, the weight 556 applies a gravitational force to the hose 136 and to the bracket 554, biasing the bracket 554 toward the first rail end 560. As shown in FIG. 15, the damping system 600 is in an extended positon and the sleeve 602 is biased away from the first rail end 560 such that the pin 606 is abutting the first slot end 610. When the bracket 554 engages the sleeve 602, the bracket 554 applies a force to the sleeve 602, causing the sleeve 602 to translate toward the first rail end 560 while the pin 606 traverses through the slot 608. The biasing member 604 applies a force to the sleeve 602 in the opposite direction as the bracket 554 to slow down the descending bracket 554. As the sleeve 602 travels toward the first rail end 560, the pin 606 is nearing the second slot end 612. As the slot 608 changes angles relative to the central axis 614, the friction between the pin 606 and the slot 608 may increase the resistance of the sleeve 602 and further slow the movement of the bracket 554 toward the first rail end 560. This increased resistance provides a “soft-close” feature to the spray head 106 to prevent the spray head 106 from striking the faucet 100 too hard and causing damage to either of the spout 104 and/or the spray head 106. As shown in FIG. 15, the hose 136 is in the retracted position and the pin 606 is abutting the second slot end 612. When the spray head 106 is pulled into an extended position, the biasing member 604 biases the sleeve 602 toward the second rail end 562 until the pin 606 abuts the first slot end 610.

Referring now to FIGS. 16 and 17, a damping system 650 is shown, according to another example embodiment. The damping system 650 is similar to the damping system 600. A difference between the damping system 600 and the damping system 650 is that the damping system 650 includes an extension spring that biases the sleeve 602 toward the first rail end 560 when the bracket 554 is latched to the sleeve 602. The damping system 650 includes the sleeve 602, the biasing member 604, and a damper 652. The damper 652 has an end coupled to the sleeve 602 and an end coupled to the rail 552 proximate to the first rail end 560. The damper 652 is configured to resist, though not prevent, movement of the sleeve 602 toward the first rail end 560.

Extending away from the bracket 554 in a direction substantially toward the sleeve 602 may be a latch flange 654 configured to engage with (e.g., latch to, removably couple with, etc. ) a tab 656 extending radially away from the sleeve 602. When the spray head 106 and the hose 136 are transitioned out of the retracted position, the hose 136 biases the bracket 554 toward the second rail end 562. At the same time, the latch flange 654 applies a force to the tab 656 to pull the sleeve 602 toward the second rail end 562. The force applied by the latch flange 654 on the tab 656 elongates (e.g., extends, pre-loads, etc. ) both the biasing member 604 and the damper 652. In some embodiments, the biasing member 604 is an extension spring that applies a force to the sleeve 602 in a direction toward the first rail end 560. In some embodiments, the damper 652 is a unidirectional damper that resists compression, but does not resist extension. When the sleeve 602 reaches a limit distance from the first rail end 560, a latching mechanism (not shown) engages with the rail 552 to maintain the sleeve 602 in an extended position as the latch flange 654 disengages with the tab 656 and the bracket 554 translates along the rail 552 toward the second rail end 562.

When the hose 136 transitions out of an extended position and toward the retracted position, the bracket 554 translates toward the sleeve 602. Depending on the mass of the weight 556, the bracket 554 may strike the sleeve 602 with considerable force. When the latch flange 654 re-engages the tab 656, the latching mechanism disengages the rail 552 and allows the sleeve 602 to transition toward the first rail end 560. When the latching mechanism is disengaged, the biasing member 604 applies a force to the sleeve 602, and thus the bracket 554, toward the first rail end 560. The damper 652 likewise resists motion of the bracket 554 and the sleeve 602 as the damper 652 is compressed. The biasing member 604 and the damper 652 cooperate to slowly transition the hose 136 to the retracted position.

Referring now to FIG. 18, a side view of the rail 552 is shown. The channel 660 extends radially into the rail 552 and is configured to receive the detent 588. The channel 660 is similar to the channel 360. Accordingly, like numbering is used to denote like parts. In some embodiments, the rail 352 may include either of the channel 360 or the channel 660. Similarly, the rail 552 may include either of the channel 360 or the channel 660. The channel 660 includes the channel surface 400

The channel 660 defines a one-way (e.g., unidirectional) path that is traversed by the bracket 554 in a single direction. The channel 660 includes a first channel end 662 proximate to the first rail end 560 and a second channel end 664 proximate to the second rail end 562. At the second rail end 562, the channel 660 includes a V-shaped catch 666 configured to maintain the detent 588, and thus the hose 136, in an extended position. The V-shaped catch 666 allows a user to pull the spray head 106 until the spray head 106 stops extending, and then release the spray head 106 to maintain the spray head 106 in an extended position. The channel steps 420 facilitate the transition of the detent 588 to the V-shaped catch 666. Upon a second pull of the spray head 106, the detent 588 exits the V-shaped catch 666 after passing over a channel step 420. When the user then releases the spray head 106, the weight 556 applies a gravitational force to the hose 136 and retracts the hose 136.

Referring now to FIGS. 19 and 20, the mounting bracket 564 is shown, according to an example embodiment. The mounting bracket 564 includes a pair of angle brackets configured for coupling with the shank 130. The mounting bracket 564 includes a first angle bracket 670 and a second angle bracket 672. The first angle bracket 670 is configured for coupling with any one of the shank 130, the surface 170, and the faucet 100. The second angle bracket 672 is coupled with the first angle bracket 670, such as by fasteners, welding, adhesives, latches, and the like. The second angle bracket 672 is further structured for coupling with the rail 552 proximate to the second rail end 562. Extending through the second angle bracket 672 are a bracket aperture 674 and a bracket slot 676 positioned radially away from the bracket aperture 674 and extending circumferentially about the bracket aperture 674. The bracket aperture 674 and the bracket slot 676 are configured to receive fasteners that extend through both the rail 552 and the second angle bracket 672. The bracket slot 676 being circumferentially positioned about the bracket aperture 674 allows the central axis of the rail 552 to be positioned at a non-zero angle 678 with respect to the central axis of the shank 130. Thus, the rail 552 may be positioned such that no portion of the rail 552 engages with or interferes with drainage plumbing, shelves, sink basins, garbage disposals, and the like positioned below the faucet.

Referring now to FIG. 21, a spray head retraction assembly 700 is shown, according to an example embodiment. The retraction assembly 700 includes a retraction device 702, a retractable cord 704 (e.g., string, rope, etc. ) , and a coupling 706 (FIG. 23) coupled with an end of the cord 704. The retraction device 702 is configured to facilitate extension and retraction of the cord 704. The retraction device 702 is configured for coupling below the faucet 100. For example, the retraction device 702 may be coupled with a cabinet, a wall, a floor, a drain pipe, or a similar structural feature positioned below the faucet 100. The retraction device 702 is configured for coupling such that the retraction device 702 does not move while facilitating extension and retraction of the spray hose 136. When the spray hose 136 is in the retracted position (FIG. 1, FIG. 21) , the retraction device 702 may apply a slight force to the cord 704 to keep the cord 704 taught and to maintain the spray head 106 and the spray hose 136 in the retracted position. When the spray hose 136 is in an extended position (FIG. 2) , the retraction device 702 applies a force to the cord 704 to bias the spray hose 136 toward the retracted position. The coupling 706 is coupled (e.g., fixedly coupled) with the spray hose 136 such that the coupling 706 does not slide along the length of the spray hose 136. As the spray hose 136 is transitioned to an extended position, the coupling 706 moves toward the shank 130.

Referring now to FIG. 22, a detailed front view of the retraction device 702 is shown. The retraction device 702 includes a detent feature 710 that traverses along a track 712 formed within a chassis 714 of the retraction device 702. As the cord 704 is extended out of an aperture 716 formed at a peripheral of the retraction device 702, the detent feature 710 transverses along the track 712 in an outwardly spiraling manner, counterclockwise relative to the orientation of FIG. 22. A fixture 718 (e.g., guide rails, etc. ) slidably engages the detent feature 710, maintaining the orientation of the detent feature 710, as the fixture 718 rotates. The detent feature 710 moves radially relative to a central axis 720 of the retraction device 702.

Referring now to FIG. 24, a side, cross-sectional view of the retraction device 702 is shown. The retraction device 702 further includes a rotatable body 722 rotatably coupled with the chassis 714and fixedly couple with the fixture 718. Referring to FIG. 25, a front, cross-sectional view of the retraction device 702 is shown along line AA of FIG. 24. The rotatable body 722 includes a plurality of apertures 724 extending about a circumference of the rotatable body 724. The apertures 724 provide an adjustable feature to the cord 704 such that the length of the cord 704 relative to the extended position of the faucet 100 may be changed and adjusted. For example, in embodiments where the retraction device 702 must be positioned far away from the spray hose 136, a bulbous end 726 of the cord 704 may be positioned in a different one of the plurality of apertures 724. In some embodiments, such as when the retraction device 702 is positioned much closer to the spray hose 136, the bulbous end 726 of the cord 704 may be moved to a different one of the plurality of apertures 724 to remove the slack from the cord 704. As the faucet 100 is transitioned out of the retracted position, the bulbous end 726 applies a circumferential force on the rotatable body 722 (in the clockwise direction relative to FIG. 25) . As the rotatable body 722 is rotated during the extension of the faucet 100, potential energy is stored in a biasing member 728. As shown, the biasing member 728 is a coil spring. When the faucet 100 is in an extended position, the biasing member 728 applies a counterforce to the rotatable body 722, which in turn applies a force to the cord 704, which applies a force to the spray hose 136 in a direction toward the retracted positon.

Referring again to FIG. 24, a damping assembly 730 is coupled with the chassis 714 and is configured to provide a soft-close feature to the faucet 100. The damping assembly 730 includes a support bracket 732 and a damper 734 coupled with the support bracket 732. The support bracket 732 includes two arms extending radially away from the damper 734 and configured for coupling with the chassis 714, such as by fasteners via the first coupling aperture 736 and the second coupling aperture 738. Specifically, the detent feature 710 includes a projection 740 configured to engage an engagement surface 742 of the damper 734.

The damper 734 may be similar to the damper 244. The damper 734 is coupled to the support bracket 732 proximate a central axis 720 of the retraction device 702. The damper 734 is configured to engage with the detent feature 710 as the faucet 100 transitioned toward a fully retracted position.

Turning now to FIG. 26, a detailed cross-sectional front view of the damper 734 and the detent feature 710 is shown along line BB of FIG. 24. The detent feature 710 translates along and within the track 710 as the faucet 100 is transitioned between the extended position and the retracted position. The track 710 includes a first track end 750 and a second track end 752. The first track end 750 spirals inward toward the central axis 720 of the retraction device 702. The second track end 752 is opposite to the first track end 750 and spirals outward away from the central axis 720. The second track end 752 is configured to retain the spray hose 136 in an extended position. The second track end 752 is similar to the second channel end 664 (FIG. 18) . Specifically, the second track end 752 includes a V-shaped catch 754 configured to maintain the detent feature 710, and thus the spray hose 136, in an extended position. The V-shaped catch 754 allows a user to pull the spray head 106 until the spray head 106 stops extending, and then release the spray head 106 to maintain the spray head 106 in an extended position.

A plurality of track steps 756 (similar to the channel steps 420) facilitate the transition of the detent feature 710 to the V-shaped catch 754. Upon a second pull of the spray head 106, the detent feature 710 exits the V-shaped catch 754 after passing over a track step 756. When the user then releases the spray head 106, the biasing member 728 applies a force to the spray hose 136 and retracts the hose 136.

When the faucet 100 is transitioned out of a fully extended position, the biasing member 728 causes rotation of the rotating body 722 (in the counterclockwise direction as shown in FIG. 25) . The rotation of the rotating body 722 pulls on the cord 704, which applies a retraction force to the spray hose 136. As the cord 704 is retracted and coiled around the rotating body 722, the detent feature 710 spirals inward within the track 712. As the detent feature 710 spirals closer to the central axis 720, the projection 740 engages with the damper 734. The damper 734 is configured to provide a soft-close feature to the faucet 100. Referring to FIG. 26, the damper 734 may be a unidirectional damper that resists clockwise rotation while allowing uninhibited rotation in the counterclockwise direction. When the projection 740 engages the damper 734, the damper 734 slows down the rotation of the fixture 718 and the rotating body 722 to provide the soft-close feature.

When the faucet 100 is transitioned out of the retracted position, a force is applied to the spray head 106, which is translated to the spray hose 136 which is translated to the cord 704. The force applied to the cord 104 is translated to the rotatable body 722 and causes the rotatable body to rotate about the central axis 720 (in a clockwise direction relative to FIG. 25) . The rotation of the rotatable body 722 translates to rotation of the fixture 718. The fixture 718 is fixedly coupled with the rotatable body 722 at the central axis 720 such that rotation of the rotatable body 722 about the central axis 720 results in rotation of the fixture 718 about the central axis 720. The fixture 718 facilitates movement of the detent feature 710 within the track 712. As shown in FIG. 26, as the fixture 718 is rotated in the counterclockwise direction about the central axis 720, the detent feature 710 slides within the fixture 718 and travels within the track 712 in an outward spiraling counterclockwise direction. When the spray hose 136 is in a fully extended position, the detent feature 710 rests within the V-shaped catch 754.

As utilized herein with respect to numerical ranges, the terms “approximately, ” “about, ” “substantially, ” and similar terms generally mean +/-10%of the disclosed values, unless specified otherwise. As utilized herein with respect to structural features (e.g., to describe shape, size, orientation, direction, relative position, etc. ) , the terms “approximately, ” “about, ” “substantially, ” and similar terms are meant to cover minor variations in structure that may result from, for example, the manufacturing or assembly process and are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the disclosure as recited in the appended claims.

It should be noted that the term “exemplary” and variations thereof, as used herein to describe various embodiments, are intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such terms are not intended to connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or superlative examples) .

The term “coupled” and variations thereof, as used herein, means the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g., permanent or fixed) or moveable (e.g., removable or releasable) . Such joining may be achieved with the two members coupled directly to each other, with the two members coupled to each other using a separate intervening member and any additional intermediate members coupled with one another, or with the two members coupled to each other using an intervening member that is integrally formed as a single unitary body with one of the two members. If “coupled” or variations thereof are modified by an additional term (e.g., directly coupled) , the generic definition of “coupled” provided above is modified by the plain language meaning of the additional term (e.g., “directly coupled” means the joining of two members without any separate intervening member) , resulting in a narrower definition than the generic definition of “coupled” provided above. Such coupling may be mechanical, electrical, or fluidic.

References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top, ” “bottom, ” “above, ” “below” ) are merely used to describe the orientation of various elements in the FIGURES. It should be noted that the orientation of various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and that such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

Although the figures and description may illustrate a specific order of method steps, the order of such steps may differ from what is depicted and described, unless specified differently above. Also, two or more steps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence, unless specified differently above.

Claims

A faucet assembly comprising:

a faucet comprising a spray head and a hose, the spray head and the hose operable between a retracted position and an extended position; and

a retraction assembly comprising:

a rail having a first rail end and a second rail end;

a bracket slidably coupled to the rail between the first rail end and the second rail end and the bracket rigidly coupled to the hose such that the hose and the bracket move simultaneously;

wherein the bracket slides along the rail in response to the spray head transitioning from a retracted position to an extended position.
The assembly of claim 1, further comprising a biasing member coupled to the bracket, the biasing member applying a force to the bracket to slide the bracket along the rail.
The assembly of claim 2, further comprising a fixture coupled proximate to the first rail end, the biasing member coupled to the fixture and configured to apply a force to the bracket in a direction toward the first rail end.
The assembly of claim 1, further comprising a damping assembly coupled proximate to the rail, the damping assembly configured to engage the bracket and negatively accelerate the bracket as the bracket slides toward the first rail end.
The assembly of claim 4, wherein the damping assembly includes a damper structured to engage a rack extending from the bracket.
The assembly of claim 5, wherein the damper is a unidirectional damper.
The assembly of claim 1, wherein the rail includes a bend portion positioned between the first rail end and the second rail end, the bend portion facilitating a bend between 70–110 rotational degrees.
The assembly of claim 7, wherein the rail further comprises rollers positioned proximate to an inner curve of the bend portion, the rollers configured to engage the hose to facilitate movement of the hose along an extrados of the bend portion.
The assembly of claim 1, wherein the rail defines a U-shaped channel structured to receive the hose such that the hose is positioned within the channel between the bracket and the second rail end.
The assembly of claim 1, wherein the rail includes a pair of grooves that extend along the length of the rail, the pair of grooves configured to receive projections of the bracket such that the projections of the bracket slide within the pair of grooves as the bracket slides along the rail between the first rail end and the second rail end.
An retraction assembly comprising:

a rail having a first rail end and a second rail end;

a bracket slidably coupled to the rail between the first rail end and the second rail end and the bracket configured for coupling with a hose of a faucet such that the hose and the bracket move simultaneously; and

a biasing member coupled to the bracket and configured to apply a force to the bracket in a direction substantially toward the first rail end;

wherein the bracket slides along the rail in response to the spray head transitioning away from a retracted position.