MX2014001203A - AUTOMATIC FAUCETS. - Google Patents

Abstract

An automatic faucet includes a housing that partially forms an internal barrel and a tap head and being constructed to include at least one water inlet conduit that extends into the barrel and a water outlet to supply water from a mouth. The automatic faucet also includes a faucet head that has a removable faucet crown and mouth, where the faucet crown is removably mounted to the faucet head. The automatic tap also includes a valve module, a sensor module, a battery module, a turbine module and a control module. The valve module includes a valve controlled by an electromagnetic actuator to control the flow of water from the mouth. The sensor module is constructed to provide sensor data influenced by a user. The control module is constructed to control the opening and closing of the valve by providing signals to the electromagnetic actuator. The control module is also constructed to receive sensor data from the sensor module and execute a pick-up algorithm. The control module is also constructed to execute a power management algorithm to handle the electrical power generated by the water turbine and being provided to and from the battery.

Description

AUTOMATIC FAUCETS This application claims priority and is a continuation in part of provisional application PCT / US2012 / 000150, filed on March 15, 2011, entitled "Automatic Faucets" and the provisional application of E.U.A. 61 / 574,345, filed July 31, 2011, entitled "Automatic Faucets", both of which are incorporated herein by reference.

This invention relates to automatic taps and methods for operating and controlling the taps.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION In public facilities or large private facilities, there are several different types of automatic faucets in use today. In this way there are dosing faucets that are activated manually to open the water by pressing the head of the tap and the time is measured hydraulically so that the water is maintained for a period of time after pressing the head. Some of these faucets have separate heads that allow independent control over hot and cold water. Other dosing faucets mix incoming hot and cold water currents and, when operated, supply a tempered output flow.

There is also known a manually activated metering tap which is electronically controlled in time. However, other known taps are activated electronically when the user places a hand under the tap. The automatic water dispensing system has provided numerous advantages, including better sanitation services, water conservation and reduced maintenance costs. Since many infectious diseases are transmitted by contact, public health authorities have suggested and ordered public food workers to perform proper hygiene, including washing their hands effectively. Effective hand washing has been facilitated by automatic taps. Automatic taps typically include a sensor for objects that detects the presence of an object and an automatic valve that turns the water outlet on and off based on a signal from the sensor. If the temperature of the automatic tap water is not in an optimal range, people tend to shorten their handwashing time. To obtain an optimum water temperature, an adequate mixing ratio of hot and cold water must be achieved for the proper operation of the water. Automatic faucets usually use a predetermined water flow control valve after mixing.

Hydraulically timed faucets are disadvantaged in that it is difficult to accurately control the long-term faucet ignition timing due to changes in network pressure and foreign matter accumulating in the faucet that can adversely affect the hydraulic controls on the tap. Additionally, some faucets can not always distinguish between the user's hand and other substances and objects that may be subjected to the proximity of the faucet, for example, a reflective object arranged in opposition to the infrared transceiver of the faucet, the accumulation of the soap in the proximity sensor of the tap, etc. As a result, the taps of the prior art can be activated accidentally and / or remain on for too long a time resulting in waste of water.

There is still a need for automatic faucets that do not waste water and have energy efficient operation.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention generally relates to automatic faucets based on sensors and methods of operation of said faucets.

According to one aspect, an automatic faucet includes a housing that partially forms a barrel internal and a tap head and is constructed to include at least one inlet duct of water that extends into the barrel and one outlet of water to supply water from one mouth. The automatic tap also includes a tap crown mounted removably on the head of the tap. The automatic tap also includes a valve module inside the barrel, a sensor module and a control module. The valve module includes an electromagnetic actuator to control the flow of water from the water outlet. The sensor module is constructed to provide sensor data influenced by a user. The sensor module is constructed to receive the sensor data from the sensor module. The internal barrel and the tap head are constructed and arranged to releasably enclose and retain the valve module, the sensor module and the control module.

Preferred embodiments may include one or more of the following characteristics: The control module is located on a circuit board removably mounted within the head of the faucet. The circuit board can be removed after removing the crown from the faucet head tap.

The automatic tap includes a turbine module built to generate electric power. The turbine module is located inside the tap head and is Removable for your service. The turbine module is built to generate electrical power and the turbine module is inside the tap head and can be removed after removing the tap crown from the tap head.

The valve module includes a housing comprising a mixing valve module arranged in cooperation with a closure cartridge. The closure cartridge is designed to shut off after removing the drive device and the associated actuator housing. The automatic faucet may include a mixing handle to control the mixing valve module. The valve module includes the housing comprising a mixing valve module cooperatively disposed with a closure cartridge and the turbine module is constructed to receive the flow of water from the closure cartridge.

According to another aspect, an automatic faucet includes a housing constructed to receive at least one water inlet conduit and having a nozzle for the water supply and a valve module that includes a valve controlled by the electromagnetic actuator to control the Water flow from the nozzle. The water tap also includes a sensor module constructed to provide sensor data influenced by a user, and a control module constructed to control the opening and closing of the valve providing signal to the electromagnetic drive device. The control module is constructed to receive sensor data from the sensor module and execute a pickup detection algorithm that produces at a noise signal level and dynamically adapts a signal threshold, the tracking signal from detection algorithms tends to to determine the presence of a user.

Preferred embodiments may include one or more of the following characteristics: The control module is constructed and programmed to execute the algorithm for detecting the use of independent parameters for different energy supply sources. There may be one or more sensor modules and the sensor module may include a capacitive sensor. The capacitive sensor includes a capacitive sensor to the touch, or the capacitive sensor includes a capacitive proximity sensor. Alternatively, the sensor module includes an active infra-red (IR) sensor comprising an infrared emitter and the detector, or a passive infrared sensor comprising an infrared detector. Alternatively, the sensor module includes an ultrasonic approach to detecting the sensor, presence, or output of a user.

The valve module, the sensor module and the control module are located in the tap housing. Alternatively, the valve module and the module of control are located in a control system unit located below a top surface of a sink. The control system unit may include a quick connect fitting for the connection of the water inlet duct. The control system unit includes a water filter unit associated with the actuator.

The control system unit is mounted on a wall that uses a wall plate. The valve module is designed for automatic shutdown after removal of the actuator.

The automatic faucet includes a water turbine to provide power to the electronic control circuit. The water turbine and the control module are designed to measure a flow rate of tap water. The water turbine and the control module are designed to detect a fault condition of the faucet. The control module is constructed to execute an energy management algorithm.

The automatic faucet includes a photovoltaic cell to provide power to the electronic control circuit. The automatic tap includes an indicator to indicate the status to a user. The indicator includes an LED diode, an acoustic indicator, or a screen.

According to yet another aspect, an automatic faucet includes a housing constructed to receive at least one water inlet conduit and having a nozzle for the water supply. The automatic faucet includes a valve module, a sensor module, a battery module, a turbine module and a control module. The valve module includes a valve controlled by an electromagnetic actuator to control the flow of water from the nozzle. The sensor module is constructed to provide sensor data influenced by a user. The control module is constructed to control the opening and closing of the valve, providing signals to the electromagnetic drive device. The control module is also constructed to receive the sensor data from the sensor module and execute a detection algorithm. The control module is also constructed to execute an energy management algorithm for managing the electric power generated by the water turbine and provided to and from the battery.

Preferred embodiments of this aspect may include one or more of the following characteristics: The control module (control system unit) may include the valve module that includes the electromechanical actuator (a solenoid actuator) and an optional filter. The actuator housing is constructed to allow an automatic shut-off by rotating the actuator housing (i.e., rotating off) and therefore not you need to close the water in case of maintenance, change the valve, or clean the filter. The filter combination connected to the removable valve module (ie, valve cartridge) and the shutdown associated with the electromagnetic actuator allows to inspect and clean the filter without tools and without having to turn off the water supply.

According to yet another aspect, a sensor-based tap includes a water turbine located in a flow of water discharged from the tap. The water turbine includes a rotor coupled to the rotor blades located within the water path having a predetermined flow rate, a magnet and a stator and an electric coil constructed and arranged to generate electric power.

Preferably, the faucet includes the water turbine to provide power to the electronic control circuit and a rechargeable battery. The water turbine and the electronic control circuit are designed to measure a flow rate of tap water. The faucet may include a water turbine, a photovoltaic cell and a rechargeable battery and the microcontroller may include a power management system for controlling the input and output of electrical power and battery charge.

Preferably, the tap including the water turbine is further constructed and arranged to detect a small amount of water that comes out of the tap. The tap that includes the water turbine is built and also has to detect a flow rate of water that comes out of the tap. The tap is activated by the automatic sensor and is also constructed and arranged to detect a malfunction of a tap element based on a signal from the water turbine.

Advantageously, the water system unit is designed for the easy installation and removal of water conduits (eg, water hoses using a quick connect design.) Installation requires a simple pull / push to secure the conduits to the water. Control system unit and / or faucet After shutting off the water supply, the quick connect hose accessories allow the installation of the hoses before installing the valve housing (manifold). Special wall mount, the manifold can be easily installed and removed without the need for tools for repairs.The present design uses a special Alien key, or another key for a screw securing the cover of the control module with respect to a bracket mounted by under the sink.

The control module (control manifold) is cooperatively designed with a mounting bracket on the wall. The manifold provides an easy installation and ontological removal of the wall support. The manifold is connected to the wall plate through a simple turning action and fixed as soon as the manifold cover is placed on the manifold.

The control system unit is rigidly fixed by a simple adjustment of screws. Once the cover screw is secured, the manifold can not be removed from the wall mounting bracket (wall plate).

The control system unit also includes a battery module that connects batteries inside a battery box without taking into account the orientation of the box with respect to the container. The battery box can only be installed in two ways (180 degrees of symmetry) and therefore prevents installation of incorrect polarity. The battery box allows a "blind" installation, that is, if the installer can not see the location under the sink, but can still install the batteries. A single quarter turn of the battery cover ring will slide the batteries outward for easy replacement. If the battery cover ring does not close the batteries (unsecured batteries) the battery box can not be installed on the manifold, which alerts the installer. The battery case is sealed by the moisture O-ring and the battery case is fixed to the manifold via snaps.

The manifold of the control module also includes a water turbine. The turbine reduces the energy consumption and therefore allows accurate measurement by reading the AC frequency signal that is proportional to the flow rate and therefore is optimized for different flow rates with an insertable flow nozzle. integrated in the manifold and the detection of faults: such as leaks and obstructions. That is to say, the turbine turns in search of turns for leaks or stops for obstructions.

The innovative tap provides easy installation and removal of the crown assembly with a screw. Advantageously, the design of the crown and the function can be easily changed: such as the addition of the photovoltaic cells, display screens (for example, the LCD screen) and user interfaces.

The electromechanical actuator may be coupled to a single valve interposed in a pre-mixed hot and cold water supply conduit. The electromechanical actuator can be coupled to another type of valve to control the flow of hot and cold water in two separate conduits, as described in PCT application PCT / US01 / 43277. Alternatively, the control signals can be sent to two electromechanical actuators constructed and arranged to separately control two valves and thus control the flow of water separately in two separate pipes with cold and hot water supplied to a tap.

According to yet another aspect, the tap can be autonomous running on batteries, the electronic tap that can operate for more than two, three or more years between battery replacements. The tap that has a minimum number of moving parts and individual components can be accessed very easily for maintenance purposes. Faucets can be manufactured and maintained at a relatively low cost.

According to yet another aspect, there is a novel interface for the programming or calibration of a tap based sensor. The interface interacts with a user through an object sensor coupled to a microprocessor to control the flow of water in the tap. The sensor-based tap includes a valve interposed in a conduit a and controlled by the electromechanical actuator and a sensor for generating the output signal of the sensor to the electronic control circuit constructed and arranged to provide the control signal for opening and closing the valve. The control circuit can direct the valve to provide a predetermined number of water jets or flashes of light in different steps of various algorithms to communicate with a user when they are captured differently. problems such as low battery status, an electical problem or a mechanical problem in one of the elements of the faucet.

According to yet another aspect, the tap has an inlet and outlet of hot water and cold water. A sensor generates sensor output signals provided to an electronic control circuit constructed and arranged to provide control signals to an electromechanical actuator. The control circuit also provides the signal to an optical, acoustic indicator or other indicator that initiates signaling when the actuator first opens the valve. The control circuit provides signals to the indicator which continues to signal a predetermined duration to indicate to a user that a prescribed time interval as necessary for effective hand washing has not yet expired. When the interval expires, the user ensures in this way that he has complied with the relevant duration regulation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a front perspective view showing a tap installed in a sink with a control system unit located under the sink.

Figure 1A is the front perspective view of the tap with the control system unit shown in the developed view.

Figures 2 and 2A are perspective views showing two forms of tap mode of Figure 1.

Figure 3 is a perspective view of the tap of Figure 1 with a tap crown removed.

Figure 3A is a developed perspective view of the tap without the crown of the tap.

Figures 3B and 3C are perspective views developed of the crown of the faucet and a circuit board module with a fitting for the faucet is shown in Figure 3 designed for capacitive detection and IR sensor, respectively.

Figure 4 is a developed perspective view of the control system unit located under the sink of the installation shown in Figure 1.

Figures 4A and 4B are perspective developed views of the system control unit shown in Figure 4 with individual modules shown in more detail.

Figures 4C and 4D are perspective side views of the control system unit shown in Figure 4 with the cover removed showing a valve module with a rotary off when removed.

Figure 4E illustrates a quick connection for a water conduit that is connected to the control system unit of Figure 4.

Figure 5 is a perspective view of a wall connection plate for connecting the control system unit shown in Figure 1 and Figure 1A.

Figures 6 and 6A are a top perspective view and a perspective top view and perspective bottom view, respectively of a base fastener for the control system unit shown in Figures 4A to 4D without the individual modules.

Figures 7, 7-1, 7A, 7A-1, are top and cross-sectional views of the control system unit with the individual modules attached.

Figure 8 shows a cover for the control system unit in several perspective and detailed views to also illustrate individual connecting elements for connecting the cover to the fastener to a base.

Figure 8A is an ordered developed perspective view of the battery module shown in Figure 4A.

Figure 8B is a developed perspective view of the actuator module shown in Figure 4A.

Figure 9 is a front perspective view showing another embodiment of a faucet installed in a sink with a control system unit that is located inside the faucet body.

Figures 9A and 9B are a front view and a side view of the tap shown in Figure 9, respectively.

Figure 10 is a cross-sectional side view of the tap shown in Figure 9.

Figure 10A is a detailed cross-sectional side view of the faucet head of the faucet shown in Figure 10a.

Figure 10B is a cross-sectional side view of the faucet shown in Figure 10 showing the head of the faucet in a view developed for better illustration.

Figures 11 and 11A are top and cross-sectional views of a turbine module located in the head of the faucet shown in Figures 10A and 10B.

Figure 11B is a developed perspective view of the elements located within the head of the faucet including the turbine module, the circuit board module and the aerator.

Figures 12, 12A, 12B, 12C and 12D show various views of the turbine, including water flow surfaces all located within the turbine module.

Figure 13 shows a developed perspective view of the control system located inside the tap shown in Figure 10, which has the tap box removed.

Figures 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D and 13E show several views of a mixing and shut-off valve located within the tap shown in Figure 10.

Figure 14 is a block diagram of the faucet elements and control circuits for the operational control of the faucet shown in Figure 1 or Figure 9.

Figure 15 is a block diagram of another embodiment of the faucet elements and control circuits for the operational control of the faucet shown in Figure 1 or Figure 9.

Figures 16A to 16G are diagrams of the elements of the tap circuit shown in the block diagram in Figure 15.

Figure 17 illustrates the main operation and tap control shown in Figure 1 or Figure 9.

Figure 18 is a flow diagram illustrating energy management for the turbine module executed by a controller.

Figures 19, 19A, 19B, 19C and 19D show another flow diagram illustrating the energy management for the tap executed by a controller.

Figure 20 is a flow diagram illustrating battery contact control for driving the control circuits.

Figure 21 includes Figures 21A, 21B and 21C illustrating a flow chart of the algorithm for capturing a target present in the faucet nozzle shown in Figure 1 or Figure 9.

Figure 22 is a flow diagram illustrating the target detection for opening the water in the flow chart of Figure 21.

Figures 22A and 22A-I are a flow diagram illustrating the detection for closing water in the flow chart of Figure 21.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED MODALITY Referring to Figure 1, a water tap 10 is shown mounted in a sink 14, where a tap base 18 is in contact with an upper surface sink 15. The faucet includes a housing body or cover 17 and a tap crown 16. Tap 10 is electrically coupled to a control manifold (control system unit) 100 using power line 11 and receives water through a water line 12. Figure 1A shows a tap 10 with the control system unit 100 shown in a developed view. The water line 12 is coupled to the central control unit 100 using a quick connect arrangement (shown in Figure 4E) and provides mixed hot / cold water. That is, there is a hot and cold mixing unit (not shown in Figures 1 and 1A) located below the sink 14. The control system unit 100 includes the plastic manifold 12, i.e., a base designed to accept the individual modules and a cover 105.

Figures 2 and 2A show two different mounting modes of the faucet 10, shown in Figure 1, to the basin 14. These mounting modes can also be applied to the faucet 10A, shown in Figure 9. Assembly can be done using a quick connect assembly including a bar 24 and the coupling elements 25A and 25B. The coupling assembly may include a gasket 22 or a thicker insulation element to electrically isolate the faucet from a sink made of metal. This insulation is important for the proper functioning of the capacitance sensor (described below) in the installation with a metal sink. Figure 2A shows another embodiment 10 with the assembly of the bar tap 28A and 28B and the coupling elements 27A, 27B, 29A and 29B.

The faucet housing actually consists of a cover-shaped structure that forms a vertical main body and the upper portion including the crown of the faucet having a nozzle extending outwardly from the main body portion to an aerator 38. The tap crown (tap crown 34 as shown in Figs 2 and 2A) includes a removable cover plate secured to the body. The cover plate can be replaced by an LCD screen or other type of screen for communication with a user or provides a message to the user for entertainment or publicity.

Figures 3 and 3A illustrate the tap having a tap crown 34 removed. The faucet 10 includes a flexible water conduit 12 having a quick connect coupling faucet 12A which is connected to the tap crown insert 36 which provides water to the aerator 38. Figure 3B is a developed perspective view of a tap crown 34A, including a circuit board and a cover plate, designed for capacitive detection of the user's hands. Figure 3C is a developed perspective view of the crown of the tap 34B, including a circuit board and a cover plate, designed for IR detection of the user's hands (or, alternatively, designed for both capacitive and sensing detection to go) .

Figure 4 is a developed perspective view of a control system unit 100 located below the sink. Figure 4A is a developed perspective view of the manifold of the control system (control system unit) 100 having a cover 105 removed. The control system unit 100 is cooperatively designed with a mounting on the support wall 106 (shown in Figs 4 and 5) for attachment to the bathroom wall below the sink.

Referring to Figures 4, 4A, 4B, 4C and 4D, the control system of the unit 100 includes a valve module 150, a battery module 200, a turbine module 250 and an electronic control module 400 (shown in Figure 14). The valve module 150 includes a valve housing 160, a lower valve body 156, an upper valve body 152, a filter 158 (or a strainer 158) and an actuator 153. The housing of the actuator 152 includes an alignment mark 154? and a valve housing 160 includes an alignment mark 154B used to turn off rotation by rotating the actuator housing (ie, the rotary shutoff operates as a bayonet connection) and therefore there is no need to shut off the water in case of maintenance , change valves or filter cleaning. This is allowed by the combination of a rotating shutdown cartridge (shown in Figures 13C and 13D) located within a rotating shutdown base structure 180 and enclosed within the shutdown housing 160.

The valve module 150 provides a valve for controlling the flow of water to the tap 10 using the actuator 153 and provides a shut-off valve for easy maintenance. When the valve module 150 is removed from the valve housing 160 there is no water flow through the control system of the unit 100. Referring also to Figures 7 and 7A, the actuator module 150 is inserted into the housing of the valve oriented to match the arrows 154A and 154B on both elements, as shown in Figure 4D. When the actuator module 150 is rotated, eg, 45 degrees as shown in Figure 4C, water can flow through the valve module if the actuator is open. By rotating the actuator module 150 approximately 45 degrees (from the position shown in Figure 4C to the position shown in Figure 4D) the valve is closed for maintenance. The actuator module 150 includes an electromechanical actuator (a solenoid driver) described below. Figure 8B is a developed perspective view of the actuator and the valve module including the water filter, which is also shown in Figure 4A. The solenoid actuator controls the flow of water supplied to the user of the aerator 38. The entire faucet system includes numerous toric rings and water seals to prevent water leakage and improve water flow as known to a person of ordinary skill in the art.

Referring to Figures 4A and 4B, the water turbine module 250 includes a rotor assembly 260 (shown in detail in Figure 12C) and a stator assembly 270 (shown in detail in Figure 12D). The rotor assembly 260 includes a ceramic magnet 262 (or other corrosion resistant magnet) and a propeller 264 secured with a plastic bolt. The stator assembly 270 includes a coil 271 positioned between two stator parts 272 and 273 made of non-magnetic material.

The water turbine module 250 is located in the water path where the rotor is integrally fixed using the rotating shaft to couple the turbine blades 264 and the rotor magnet 262. The rotor magnet is opposite to the pole elements of the rotor. stator The stator coil is provided to be interconnected with a magnetic flux that passes through the stator poles. When the water turbine rotates upon receiving the water flow, the magnet 262 rotates relatively with respect to the stator pole. The flow of the magnetic flux flowing to the rotor and to the stator pole is changed. As a result, a Induced current flows in the stator coil in one direction in a way that prevents the change in the flow of the magnetic flux. The stator-rotor arrangement preferably has 12 poles (but may also have a smaller or larger number of poles to optimize energy production). The generator is also used as a tachometer to effectively measure the rate of flow through the tap. This arrangement also allows the monitoring and detection of failures of a clogged line or a clogged filter. The current is then rectified, which is stored, for example, in the rechargeable battery using the energy management algorithm described below. The corresponding signal is supplied to the microcontroller, as shown in Figs. 14 and 15.

Still referring to Figure 4B and Figures 12A and 12B, the water turbine module 250 has a unique fluid path designed to allow a range of flow rates. The rotor turbine 260 is cooperatively designed with a base of the turbine 282 having a specially designed focusing inlet 284, and an optional nozzle 283 located in a focusing inlet 284. For flow rates greater than 0.7 GP (gallons) per minute) at 1.8 GPM, a larger cross-sectional flow path is provided to reduce internal flow resistance (ie, a loss of pressure). For another side, for low flow rates as low as 0.35 GPM, approach input 284 includes nozzle 283 that reinforces the output power of the turbine generator. The nozzle can be held in place by a small tongue and groove molded to the mouthpiece. This design requires a relatively small amount of space.

As shown in Figure 4B, the rotary closure cartridge 170 includes an outlet port 174 (see also Figures 13C and 13D), which receives the water flow from the valve, whose flow is confined by the rotary closure cartridge 170 and outlet port 174 and has a laminar flow between the rotatable closure base 180 and the housing 160 flowing in the focus inlet 284. Advantageously, the valve housing 160 and the turbine housing 280 are made in one piece to improve the laminar flow of water.

The water turbine module reduces energy consumption and also allows accurate water measurement by reading the frequency of the AC signal, which is proportional to the flow rate and is also optimized for different flow rates with the nozzle of insertable or permanent flow 283.

As described above, the magnetic flux flows between the rotor and the stator pole in the generator. The magnetic flux acts as a resistance when the turbine of water will be rotated by the force of the flowing water. That is, a magnetic flux generated between the rotor and the stator pole acts as a holding torque to slow down the operation of the water turbine during start-up and rotation of the water turbine. The turbine module of the present invention is designed to initiate and detect a small amount of water flow to detect the leakage of water in the tap. The turbine module can be replaced by another rechargeable power supply module, such as one or more photovoltaic cells. The photovoltaic cells can be installed on top of the crown assembly.

The battery module 200 includes four batteries each providing 1.5V DC. Figure 8? is an orderly developed perspective view of the battery module. The battery housing located in the control system unit is designed to receive the battery module 200 regardless of the orientation of the battery case 204 with respect to the holder 210 in the manifold. That is, the battery case 210 can only be installed in two ways (180 degrees of symmetry) by holding the connection fasteners 208 in the fasteners 212 to the holder 210. This prevents installation of incorrect polarity of the batteries. In other words, the battery case 204 allows a "blind" installation when the installer does not You can see the location under the sink, but you can still install the batteries. During installation, a simple quarter turn of the battery cover ring will cause the batteries to slide outward for easy replacement. If the battery case ring is not closing (ie the batteries are not secured), the battery case can not be installed on the holder 210. The battery module 200 is sealed by means of an O-ring. the humidity and the box are well fixed in the manifold by means of pressure adjustment.

The control system module 100 includes plastic manifold 120, which is connected to a plate 106. Figure 5 illustrates the wall fixing plate 106 having fasteners 113, 114 and 115 cooperatively designed with the fasteners located in the plastic manifold 120, which are cooperatively designed for hermetic, mechanically robust coupling. Specifically, the plastic manifold 120 includes an opening 122 and a barrier 123 designed with the element 115 of the plate 106. These cooperating surfaces provide mechanically robust coupling and are marked to facilitate maintenance of the unit 100 of the control system. The unit of the entire control system is designed in cooperation with the wall mount bracket 106 to facilitate installation and connection to, and removal of, the wall bracket.

Figures 6 and 6A are perspective top views and a bottom perspective view of the plastic manifold (base fastener) 120 to the control system unit 100. Figures 7, 7- I, 7A and 7A-I , are cross-sectional views of manifold control system 100. Figure 10 shows manifold 105 in several perspective and detailed views.

The cooperative action of the valve module and the actuator module allows automatic shutdown and therefore there is no need to shut off the water in case of maintenance, valve change or filter cleaning. The combination of filters connected to a removable valve cartridge and automatic closure associated with the electromagnetic drive device allows the inspection and cleaning of the filter without the need for tools and without having to close the water.

The actuator module includes an electromagnetic actuator (electromagnetic operator). The electromagnetic actuator includes a solenoid wound around armature housing constructed and arranged to receive an armature including a plunger partially enclosed by a membrane. The armature provides a passage of fluid for the displacement of the armature fluid between a distal part and a proximal part of the armature thus allowing the energetically efficient movement of the armature between the open and closed positions. The membrane is secured with respect to the housing of the armature and is arranged to seal the fluid of the armature within a pocket of the armature having a fixed volume, wherein the displacement of the plunger (i.e., the distal part or armor) displaces the membrane with respect to a passage of the valve opening or closing the passage thus. This allows operation with low energy battery for a long time.

Preferably, the actuator may be a bolt actuator (including a permanent magnet to contain the armature) or an actuator without a bolt. The distal part of the armature is cooperatively arranged with different types of diaphragm membranes designed to act against a valve seat when the armature is disposed in its extended armature position. The electromagnetic actuator is connected to a control circuit constructed to apply the coil drive to the coil in response to an output of the optional armature sensor.

The armature sensor can detect when the armor reaches the final position (open or closed position). The control circuit can direct the application of a drive signal from the coil to the drive coil in a first direction, and in response to the output from the sensor that meets a first predetermined current termination criterion to start or stop the coil drive application to the coil in the first direction of drive. The control circuit can direct or stop the application of a coil drive signal to the coil response to a sensor output that meets a predetermined criterion.

The tap can be controlled, for example, by the electromagnetic actuator constructed and arranged to release the pressure in the pilot chamber and thus initiate the movement of a piston, a diaphragm or a structure assembly, from the position of the valve closed to the open valve position. The actuator may include a bolt actuator (as described in US Patent 6,293,516, which is incorporated by reference), a boltless actuator (such as described in US Patent 6,305,662, which is incorporated by reference), or an isolated operator (as described in PCT application PCT / US01 / 51098, which is incorporated by reference). Therefore, the valve module can be manually controlled, the electric signal initials to the actuator controller (instead of a signal with a sensor initialized) or by manually releasing the pressure in the pilot camera, as described in the patent of E.U.A. 6,874,535 (which is incorporated by reference).

Referring to Figure 4E, the control system unit is designed for easy installation and removal of the water conduit for supplying tap water 10. The installation requires a simple push-pull to secure the conduit (eg, a hose) of the mixing valve or tap. In combination with the special wall mounting bracket 106, the control system of the unit 100 can be easily installed and removed for repair without tools.

Figure 9 is a front perspective view showing another embodiment of a faucet installed in a sink with a system control unit that is located inside the body of the faucet. Figures 9A and 9B are a front view and a side view of the tap shown in Figure 9, respectively. Figure 'O is a cross-sectional side view of the faucet shown in Figure 9. Figure 10A is a detailed cross-sectional side view of the faucet head of the faucet shown in Figure 10 and Figure 10B is a side view in cross-section of the tap shown in Figure 10 showing the tap head in the developed view for a better illustration.

Figure 13 shows an orderly developed perspective view of the interior of the tap 10A. In this embodiment, the control system unit is arranged differently than in Figures 4 to 4D, but provides similar advantages and modular design for all modules now located inside the faucet as shown in Figure 10. Still with Referring to Figure 13, the control system unit includes a valve module 150A, a battery module 200A, and a turbine module 250A. The valve module 150A includes a water mixing handle 20 cooperatively designed with a module 180A of the mixing valve (shown in Figures 13A, 13B and 13E) and rotary closure cartridge 170A (shown in the Figures) 13C and 13D) all enclosed in turn in the closing housing 160A.

The valve module 150A includes a lower valve body 156A, an upper valve body portion 152A, a filter 158A (or a strainer 158A), and an actuator 153 located inside the upper valve body 152A. The housing of the actuator 152 may also include a co-ordinated alignment mark designed with an alignment mark located in the valve housing 160A used to rotationally turn off the actuator housing as described in relation to Figures 4C and 4D. The output of Water from the valve module 150A flows into the turbine module 250A which is shown in detail in Figures 11 to 12B.

Figures 11 and 11A are top and cross-sectional views of turbine module 250A located at the head of the faucet shown in Figs. 10A and 10B, and Figure 11B is a perspective view of the elements located inside the head tap 16A. The turbine module 250A includes the rotor 260 and stator 270 both cooperatively designed to fit in the base of the turbine 275A, which in turn fits into a hydraulic crown assembly 280A. The turbine module 250A includes a rotor assembly 260 (shown in detail in Figure 12C) and a stator assembly 270 (shown in detail in Figure 12D). The rotor assembly 260 includes rotor magnet 262 (made of ceramic magnet or other corrosion resistant) and the propeller 264 is fixed with a plastic bolt. The stator assembly 270 includes the coil 271 located between two stator parts 272 and 273 made of non-magnetic material.

The tap head 16A includes a circuit board located above the hydraulic assembly crown 280A. The circuit board includes electronics described in relation to Figs. 14 and 15.

In the same way as described above in connection with tap 10, the water turbine module 250A it has a single fluid path extending from a seal 252A at a centering inlet 276A and exits the turbine at port 277A. The turbine module 250A is designed to allow a range of flow rates. The turbine rotor 260 is designed in cooperation with a turbine base 282 having a specially designed focusing input 276A and the optional nozzle located at the focus input 276A.

Figure 14 is a block diagram of a control electronics 400 for controlling the operation of the faucet 10. The control electronics preferably use a capacitance sensor 50, or, alternatively, an active IR sensor or a passive IR sensor. The active IR sensor includes an IR transmitter 420 for the emission of IR rays and an IR receiver 424 for detecting the reflected IR light. The passive IR sensor uses the passive optical detector for the detection of the presence of a user as described in PCT applications PCT / US03 / 38730 and PCT / US03 / 41303, both of which are incorporated by reference.

Referring to Figure 14, the control electronics 400 includes a controller 402, powered by a battery 200. The controller 402 is preferably a microcontroller MC9S08GT16A made by Freescale®. The microcontroller executes several detections and processing algorithms, which are downloaded preferably. Nevertheless, of the controllers and the algorithms can therefore be implemented in the form of dedicated logic circuit, ASIC, or otherwise. The control electronics 400 includes a power switch 405, a DC-DC converter 406 and a solenoid driver 408. The solenoid driver 408 provides a drive signal to a solenoid 150 controlled by a solenoid feedback amplifier 412 and a signal conditioner 414. The controller 402 communicates with an indicator driver 434 for driving a visible diode 436 (e.g., a blue diode or a red diode) for communications with the user.

As shown in Figure 14, the active optical sensor includes an IR diode driver 422 that provides power to an IR transmitter 420 and an IR sensor amplifier 426 that receives a signal from the IR receiver 424. The entire operation it is controlled by the controller 402.

The IR diode impeller 422 can be designed to progressively increase and decrease the optical power output according to the target conditions and the environment. The same applies to the IR receiver using IR sensor amplifier 426. Generally, only one of the modes is used since one is sufficient to achieve the purpose. The following are examples of the conditions: If the environment is IR too bright, the system increases the optical emission signal. If the objective It is very close, so that at the closest point, the system reduces the IR signal to save energy. If the target is not sufficiently reflective of IR, the system reinforces the IR signal from the IR transmitter 520 or uses the IR sensor amplifier 526.

The system 402 uses optional voice synthesizer 440 connected to a loudspeaker 442 to provide a user interface. An optional flow sensor conditioner 444 connected to a flow sensor 446 is used for the detection of water flow through the faucet. Alternatively, a sensor can be used to detect the overflow of water in the sink and provide signal to the controller 402 to turn off the automatic faucet.

The system may include an optional RF transceiver 450 connected to an antenna 452 for wireless communication with a central controller or remotely located network. The present design can be deployed with a network of bathroom taps and sanitary devices connected wirelessly. The remotely located network allows the monitoring and the collection of information about faucets and appliances. Communication between the taps and appliances preferably uses low frequency RF signals and communication with the remotely located network node preferably uses a high frequency RF signal.

In general, data communication by cable or wireless is used for the transmission of information as it relates to the well-being of bathroom taps and sanitary furniture. The information transmitted (along with the device ID) can include the battery voltage, the number of discharges, the unit is in operating condition (can not be turned off), no water condition (can not be turned on), etc. . Using an RF 450 transceiver and antenna 452, the system can receive information such as command initiated remotely from another location. The accessories can communicate with each other in a network form. The accessories can communicate with a proximal central unit and this unit can transmit data (cable or wireless) to a wider network such as the internet. In a preferred embodiment, the user's location initiates a diagnostic mission by requesting that each accessory be turned on and then turned off. In turn, each accessory reports successful / unsuccessful operation. Therefore, the device can report other variables: such as battery voltage, number of downloads, etc. The user collects the information and schedules a maintenance route according to the results. This is particularly useful in establishments: such as convention centers, etc., where maintenance personnel are currently sending equipment to monitor the good operation of the accessories and take notes manually before the event.

Another embodiment of the control electronics is described in PCT publications WO2005 / 056938 and WO2004 / 061343, both of which are incorporated by reference.

According to another embodiment, the control electronics includes a microcontroller which is an 8-bit CMOS microcontroller TMP86P807M manufactured by Toshiba. The microcontroller has a program memory of 8 Kbytes and a data memory of 256 bytes. The programming is done through a Toshiba adapter plug with a general purpose PROM programmer. The microcontroller operates at three frequencies (fe = 16 MHz, fe = 8 MHz and fs = 332.768kHz), where the first two clock frequencies are used in a normal manner and the third frequency is used in a low-energy mode ( that is, an inactive mode). The microcontroller works in the inactive mode between the different actions. To save battery power, the microcontroller periodically samples the optical sensor unit for an input signal and then powers the power consumption controller. The power consumption controller drives the signal conditioner and other elements. In some way, the optical sensor unit, the voltage regulator (or the voltage booster) and the signal conditioner are not powered to save battery power. During operation, the microcontroller provides indication data to an indicator, e.g., a visible diode or a loudspeaker. The control electronics can receive a signal from the passive optics or the optical sensor of the active sensor described above. A low battery detection unit can be the model of low battery detector No. TC54VN 202EMB, available in a Microchip Technology. The voltage regulator can be part of the voltage regulator No. TC55RP3502EMB, also available in Microchip Technology (http://www.microchip.com). The microcontroller may alternatively be a part of the MCU COP8SAB728M9 microcontroller, available from National Semiconductor.

The tap may include one or several photovoltaic cells alone or in combination with the water turbine to produce voltage that is proportional to the amount of light it receives. When the system 500 is turned on and the operation begins, the system registers this voltage and continuously monitors the voltage later. At the first time of operation, if there is no voltage of the photovoltaic cell, this means dark environment and therefore the unit marks the time and counts a predetermined amount of time. If the time is long enough, such as hours and days and there is no detected target within the same period of time then the tap system is activated but nobody is using the bathroom (ie the lights are off) and therefore the system enters a saving mode Energy. In this mode, the system scans the target at a much lower frequency to conserve battery power. The system can also turn off or decelerate other functions such as scanning the manual control buttons, battery voltage, etc. The use of photovoltaic cells is described in PCT PCT / US2008 / 008242, filed on July 3, 2008, which is incorporated by reference.

Figure 15 is a block diagram of another embodiment of the control circuitry for the operational control of the tap shown in Figure 1.

Figures 16A-16G are circuit diagrams of the control circuits shown in the block diagram in Figure 15.

In Figure 17 the operation of the tap uses a state diagram 500. The processor executes the algorithm by first performing all the initialization, which allows the interruptions foreseen for the ignition (state 501). Then, the energy of all the sources is checked in the state of energy source verification (state 506). If there is a battery A / D error or the microcontroller is running out of external power again the algorithm enters state 501 (step 504). Otherwise, for the normal power level and if there is no solenoid activation, the algorithm enters (by transition 512) to control the load of the large capacitor (state 518).

In state 506, if there is normal power level and if a solenoid activation occurs, the algorithm enters (508) the open timer control solenoid (state 510). After the target is no longer detected or after a pre-selected period of time (520) the algorithm enters the closed solenoid state (state 524). Then, the algorithm undergoes transition (transition 526) to the charge control of the large capacitor (state 518). From the charge control of the large capacitor (state 518), the algorithm transitions (transition 528) to the control sensor capacitor (state 530).

In the control of capacitor sensors (state 530) the system executes the target detection and when the target is not detected and the solenoid is activated, the system undergoes transition (transition 534) to the red LED blinking control (state 550). Alternatively, when the target is detected (Figs 22 and 22A), the system undergoes the transition (transition 536) to the open solenoid state (state 540), where the solenoid opens. Alternatively, when the target is outside the detection zone when the solenoid is opened, the system undergoes the transition (transition 532) back to the closing solenoid state (state 524), where the solenoid is closed. Otherwise, when there is no detection activity, and there is no LED Flash and it is necessary to check the second battery, the system suffers transition from state 530 (transition 538) to the inactive state (state 570).

Starting from the red LED Flash control state (state 550), the system undergoes transition (transition 552) to the inactive state (state 570) after which it is needed is LED flash and the second revision of the battery. However, if the indicator is set at the second battery check, the system undergoes transition (transition 556) to the second battery check control status (state 560). Also, after the state of the open solenoid (state 540) if a second battery check is required the system undergoes transition (transition 546) to the second battery check control status (state 560), and after complete the battery check, the system suffers from transition (transition 554) to the inactive state (state 570).

At each entry to activity, the system suffers from transition (transition 574) of the inactive state (state 570) to the complete power source revision status (state 506). If there is no turbine power, or there is no battery power (or the battery power is lowered for 10 minutes to less than 3.7 V), or there is no solar power, the system suffers from transition (step 572) of new to the inactive state (state 570).

Figure 18 is a flow diagram illustrating the administration of power to the control circuits. The system periodically checks the battery's energy, the power of the turbine and the power optionally provided by a photovoltaic cell. Figures 19, 19A, 19B, 19C, and 19D illustrate the administration of power to the control circuits.

Figure 20 is a flow chart illustrating contact control of the battery for powering the control circuits.

Figure 21 is a flow diagram illustrating the algorithm for detecting a target present in the faucet nozzle as shown in Figure 1 or Figure 9.

The system performs the capacitive detection operation in order to control the operation of the tap. From the ignition or any type of restart, the system performs the calibration and first initialization and then acts as a state machine. When you activate your inactive state, the system scans the capacitance sensor to obtain the current raw data, to update the baseline and then the system performs associated tasks based on its current state. The processor wants to go to the inactive state again after finishing the current task.

The calibration process includes several processes: "Normalize raw data", "control the environment" and "determine the effect of water". When normalizing hard data it adjusts raw data in dynamic range (a range close to 11500). Checking the environment causes the noise level to be within the predefined range, if not, the LED system flashes and keeps track until it reaches the appropriate noise level in the predefined range. If the system is maintained at this stage, there is an indication that the system is not suitable for this environment, as shown in Figure 21A. The water determination effect opens the water to determine the effect of water and determines if this is a 1.5 / 0.5 GPM spout / head. Only at an initial value, the system is updated automatically during its regular operation. When the calibration is complete, the system turns on the water per second to indicate to the system that it is ready to be used.

The system uses a total of 8 states: DELETE OBJECTIVE, CHECK ENTRY, TOUCH, SET TARGET, VERIFY OUTPUT, PROHIBITION, PAUSE, and DELETE. The system will be in one and only one of the states at any given time.

In the DELETE OBJECTIVE state, the destination signal is always cleared. The system updates the signal threshold, monitors the noise level and determines the signal threshold and the number of a signal to be verified as a target. If the difference of the current data and the baseline is greater than the threshold signal, the data continuously increases more than a certain value, the system enters the state of INPUT VERIFICATION and accelerates the scanning. In the INPUT VERIFICATION state, the target signal will establish if the data in this state was verified. The system determines when you need to establish objective signal. If the signal data is above the Signal Threshold and continuously for predetermined times, then the system turns on the target signal and enters the SET TARGET state, and saves current hard data as part of the reference used to determine when the target is removed. objective. If it is activated 5 times in 30 seconds, the system enters the PAUSE state.

In the TOUCH state, the target signal will be deleted after it has been played for 5 seconds. The system determines to eliminate the objective signal and eliminates the objective signal if it is played for more than 5 seconds. The system determines what to do from touch point to not touched. If more than 5 seconds are touched, the system enters the DELETE state. If you touch less than 5 seconds, the system returns to the SET OBJECTIVE state.

In the SET TARGET state, the target signal is always set. The system calibrates the effect of the water during the first 2 seconds and determines the value of the water effect and then establishes the following parameters: • Signal threshold for water in time, and · reference value for the water that is used to determine if the target has been moved. The system determines if it is necessary to enter the OUTPUT VERIFICATION state.

The system enters the OUTPUT VERIFICATION situation if any of the following occurs: • Time of departure • Raw data does not change over a predefined range • The signal data is smaller than in the threshold signal • The raw data decreases below the only predefined reference before the water is opened.

In the VERIFY OUT state, the destination signal will be cleared if the signal has been verified. The system tracks the time the water runs and eliminates the target signal if the operation time is exceeded, and the system enters the PAUSE state. The system determines if the data is stable and eliminates the target signal when the data is in the predefined range continuously for 1.5 seconds and then enters the state of PROHIBITION. The system determines if the data decreases from a reference level, deletes the target signal when the data is in the predefined range continuously for 1.5 seconds and then enters the state of PROHIBITION. The system determines if the data is below the lower signal threshold, eliminates the target signal when the data is in the predefined range continuously for 1 second and then enters the PROHIBIT state.

In the PROHIBITION state, the target signal is always deleted. The system determines when to exit this state. The system will enter the DELETED OBJECTIVE state if it has been in this state for a minimum time predefined.

In the PAUSE state, the target signal is always deleted. The system determines when to exit this state. The system will enter the REMOVED OBJECTIVE status if it has been in this state for a predefined time. In the DELETE state, the target signal is always deleted. The system determines when to exit this state. The system will enter the OBJECTIVE ELIMINATED state if you have been in this state for previously defined time.

Referring to Figure 14, the capacitance detector processor 465 communicates with the microcontroller processor 402 using the High-Low Heart Rate pulse every 5 seconds to indicate that it is in good condition. By keeping it depressed, the system stops scanning when port 2.5 is low to save power. In the LED power request, the system adjusts port 1.5 below to indicate that it may need to turn on the LED.

Figure 22 is a flow chart illustrating target uptake by opening the water and Figure 22A is a flow chart illustrating the target uptake to close the water in the flow chart in Figure 21C. This algorithm is described for the capacitive proximity and touch sensor (made by Cypress Semiconductor). However, this algorithm also applies to the active IR sensor using a light source and a light detector that detects a reflected signal from a user. The objective detection algorithm (and any algorithm described herein) can be embedded in a designated microcircuit or downloaded to the corresponding processor.

Referring to Figure 22, the objective detection algorithm for "turning on the water" initiates in the objective elimination state (the water is closed).

• Scan sensor at 8 Hz to read the sensor data • Signal = raw data stream - baseline • If the signal > threshold, go to the verification status • -When checking status, the Threshold is increased by 5 • -When checking status, the Threshold is increased by 5 • -If the signal > Threshold consecutively is greater than the "verification" time, the water is turned on. • • • 1 threshold and "verification" times are updated dynamically as follows: After 5 seconds: Noise level = maximum gross data - minimum gross data If the noise level is low, Threshold = high capture level Verification = 3 If the noise level is medium, Threshold = medium sensitive level Verification = 4 If the noise level is High, Threshold = low sensitive level Verification = 5 • -In "Verification" < Verification threshold that the scanning sensor reads the sensor data.

Referring to Figure 22A and 22A-I, the objective detection algorithm for "turning off the water" starts after the water is opened.

• -Once the water is opened, it remains open for at least one second even far from the left-right side of the target • -The objective threshold will be established as: Threshold = signal Target at the time of the drive + effect of water -15 • -Three counters are used to determine what the objective is, Counter 1 counts the signal number less than the threshold Counter 2 counts the signal number without change Counter 3 counts the signal decrease number • -If the current signal is less than the threshold, Counter 1 increases by 1, otherwise Counter 2 is reset to 0.

• -The stable reference starts for the first signal data. If the difference between the current signal and the stable reference is less than the predefined range, the Counter 2 is increased by 1, in some way the Counter 2 is reset to 0 and the stable reference is reset to the current signal.

• -If the current signal is less than the previous signal, the Counter 3 is incremented by 1, and the diminished value is added to the total signal decreased, otherwise, the counter 3 is reset to 0 and the total decrease is reset to 0 • · If Counter 1 greater than 8, or Counter 2 greater than, or Counter 3 is greater than 8 and the total signal decreased is greater than 45, or Counter 3 is greater than 12. Close the water, as shown in shown in Figure 22A-I.

• · The threshold is reset to 15 after the water closes.

The detection algorithm described above deals with several problems associated with capacitive proximity sensors. In the capacitance signal, the detection zone is uncertain, especially when the water flows and the human hands are only part of the capacitance of origin. The signal-to-noise ratio is not large enough, and noise can cause false detections. The intensity of the signal varies for different sources of power supply (for example, battery or power adapter). To overcome the problems of synthesis, the detection algorithm automatically calibrates the baseline based on real application environments. The algorithm for detecting a tracking of the noise signal level and the signal adapts the corresponding threshold. The detection algorithm of signal intensity tracks the deterministic trend not only mine the presence of the hand of man. In addition, the detection algorithm uses separate parameters for different sources of energy supply.

The faucet may use an alternative optical transceiver which is described in the U.S. patent. 5,979,500 or the US patent. 5,984,262, and therefore are described in co-pending United States applications 10 / 012,252 and 10 / 012,226, all of which are incorporated by reference. The microcontroller can be a COP8SAB and C0P8SAC microcontroller manufactured by National Semiconductor, or TMP86c807M microcontroller manufactured by Toshiba. To save energy and significantly prolong battery operation, the activation period is much shorter than the inactivation period. Depending on the controller mode, the inactivation time can be 100 ms, 300 ms or 1 sec.

The electronic tap also communicates with a user by a novel "jet interface" which provides the signal to a user in the form of jets of water emitted from the tap. Alternatively, the electronic tap may include novel optical or acoustic interface. The electronic tap is designed to avoid wasting water when, for example, a permanent object located in a sink.

Claims (47)

1. - An automatic tap, comprising: a housing that is part of an internal barrel and a tap head and is constructed to include at least one water inlet conduit extending in said barrel and a water outlet for supplying water from a nozzle; a tap crown mounted removably on said head of the tap; a valve module that includes an electromagnetic actuator to control the flow of water from the water outlet; a sensor module constructed to provide sensor data influenced by a user; a control module constructed to receive said sensor data from said sensor module; Y said inner barrel and the tap head is being constructed and is arranged to releasably enclose and retain said valve module, sensor module and control module.

2. - The automatic faucet of claim 1, wherein said control module is located on a circuit board removably mounted within the head of the faucet.

3. The automatic faucet of claim 2, wherein said circuit board is removable after removal of the faucet crown from said faucet head.

4. - The automatic tap of claim 1, 2 or 3, including a turbine module constructed to generate electric power.

5. - The automatic tap of claim 4, wherein said turbine module is inside said tap head and is removable for maintenance.

6. - The automatic faucet of claim 3, including a turbine module constructed to generate electric power, said turbine module is located inside said faucet head and being removable after the elimination of said faucet crown from the head of the faucet .

7. - The automatic tap of claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the valve module includes the housing comprising a mixing valve module arranged in cooperation with a closure cartridge.

8. - The automatic faucet of claim 7, wherein said closing cartridge is designed for closing time after removal of said housing from the actuator and the associated actuator.

9. - The automatic faucet of claim 7, including a mixing handle for controlling said valve mixing module.

10. - The automatic faucet of claim 4, wherein said valve module includes the housing comprising a mixing valve module arranged in cooperation with a closing cartridge and wherein said turbine module is constructed to receive the flow of water from said closing cartridge.

11. - The automatic faucet of claim 4, wherein said turbine module and said control module are designed to measure a water flow rate of said faucet.

12. - The automatic faucet of claim 10, wherein said turbine module and said control module are designed to detect a fault condition of said faucet.

13. - The automatic tap of claim 10, wherein said control module is constructed to execute an energy management algorithm.

14. - The automatic tap of claim 1, 2, 3 or 4, wherein said sensor module includes a capacitive sensor.

15. - An automatic tap, comprising: a housing that is part of an internal barrel and a tap head and being constructed to include at least one water inlet duct extending into said barrel and a water outlet to supply water from a mouthpiece; a tap crown mounted removably on said tap head; a valve module that includes an electromagnetic actuator to control the flow of water from the water outlet; a turbine module built to generate electrical power; a battery module built to provide electrical power; Y a control module constructed to control the opening and closing of said valve providing signals to said electromagnetic actuating device, said control module is constructed to execute an energy management algorithm for the management of the electric power generated by said turbine of water and provided to and from said battery

16. - The automatic faucet of claim 15, which includes a sensor module constructed to provide sensor data influenced by a user and located on said faucet head.

17. - The automatic faucet of claim 16, wherein said control module is constructed to receive data from the sensors from said sensor module and execute a detection algorithm that tracks the noise signal level and dynamically adapts a threshold of signal, the tracking algorithm signal detection tends to determine the presence of a user.

18. - The automatic faucet of claim 17, wherein said control module is constructed to execute said detection algorithm using independent parameters to different energy supply sources.

19. - The automatic faucet of claim 16, wherein said sensor module includes a capacitive sensor.

20. - The automatic faucet of claim 19, wherein said capacitive sensor includes a capacitive touch sensor.

21. - The automatic faucet of claim 19, wherein said capacitive sensor includes a capacitive proximity sensor.

22. - The automatic faucet of claim 1 or 16, wherein said sensor module includes an active infrared sensor comprising an infrared emitter and the detector.

23. - The automatic tap of claim 1 or 16, which includes a quick-connect fitting for connecting and disconnecting said water inlet duct.

24. - The automatic faucet of claim 1 or 15, which includes a water filter associated with said valve module.

25. - The automatic tap of claim 1 or 15, which includes an indicator to indicate the status of a user.

26. - The automatic tap of claim 24, wherein said indicator includes an LED diode.

27. - The automatic faucet of claim 15, wherein said water turbine module and said control module are designed to measure a water flow rate of said faucet.

28. - The automatic faucet of claim 15, wherein said water turbine and said control module are designed to detect a fault condition of said faucet.

29. - The automatic tap of claim 28, including an indicator to indicate the state associated with said failure condition.

30. - The automatic faucet of claim 15, wherein said valve module includes the housing comprising a mixing valve module arranged in cooperation with a closure cartridge.

31. - The automatic tap of claim 30, wherein said closure cartridge is designed for rotary shutdown after the removal of the drive device and the associated actuator housing.

32. - The automatic tap of claim 1 or 15, wherein said tap crown includes a screen.

33. - An automatic faucet comprising the housing that partially forms an internal barrel and a tap head including a removable faucet crown and a mouth and a water turbine that is inside said faucet head in a flow of water discharged from the faucet faucet, the water turbine module comprising a rotor coupled to the rotor blades located within a water path having a predetermined flow velocity, a magnet coupled to said rotor, a stator, and an electric coil constructed and arranged for generate electric power.

34. - The automatic faucet of claim 33, wherein said water turbine module is removable from said faucet head after removal of said faucet crown.

35. - The automatic tap of claim 33, wherein said water turbine module is constructed and arranged to detect a small amount of water exiting the tap.

36. - The automatic tap of claim 33, wherein said water turbine module is constructed and arranged to detect a flow velocity of water exiting the tap.

37. - The automatic tap of claim 33, wherein said tap is driven by an automatic sensor and is constructed and arranged to detect a malfunction of the elements inside the tap based on the signal of the water turbine module .

38. - An automatic tap that includes: a housing that is part of an internal barrel and a tap head and is constructed to include at least one water inlet conduit extending in said barrel and a water outlet for supplying water from a nozzle; a valve module including a valve controlled by an electromagnetic actuator to control the flow of water from said nozzle; a turbine module built to generate electrical power; a battery module built to provide electrical power; Y a sensor module constructed to provide sensor data influenced by a user; a control module constructed to control the opening and closing of said valve by providing signals to said electromagnetic actuating device, said control module being constructed to receive data from the sensors from said module. sensor and run a detection algorithm to determine the presence of a user.

39. - The automatic faucet of claim 38, wherein said sensor module includes a capacitive sensor.

40. - The automatic faucet of claim 38, wherein said sensor module includes an active infrared sensor comprising an infrared emitter and the detector.

41. - The automatic faucet of claim 38, wherein said sensor module includes a passive infrared sensor.

42. - A method to control the flow of water in an automatic tap, which includes: providing a tap according to claim 1; the execution of a detection algorithm that tracks the level of the noise signal and dynamically adapts a signal threshold, said signal that captures the algorithm tracking tends to determine the presence of a user; Y controlling the opening and closing of said valve by providing signals to said electromagnetic driving device.

43. - A service method of an automatic tap, comprising: providing a tap according to claim 7; removing said tap crown; removing said actuator and therefore closing the water in said closing cartridge; Y the installation of a replacement element.

44. - The method of service of an automatic faucet of claim 43, wherein said installing said replacement element includes the installation of a water filter.

45. - The method of service of an automatic faucet of claim 43, wherein the installation of said replacement element includes the installation of a replacement actuator.

46. - The method of service of an automatic faucet of claim 43, wherein the installation of said replacement element includes the installation of a replacement turbine module.

47. - The method of service of an automatic faucet of claim 43, wherein the installation of said replacement element includes the installation of a replacement aerator.