CN1961123A - Two handle pull-out faucet - Google Patents

Abstract

A dual-handle controlled faucet (10) includes a pull-out nozzle (28) and a faucet base (12). The pull-out nozzle (28) can switch between a first water outlet mode and a second water outlet mode. When removed from the faucet base, the pull-out nozzle switches from the first water outlet mode to the second water outlet mode, providing automatic switching between the two spray modes.

Description

Two-handle pull-out faucet

technical field

The present invention relates to a pull-out sink faucet, and more particularly to a pull-out sink faucet with independent control of hot and cold water, and a pull-out sink faucet that switches between spray mode and direct current mode when connected to or disconnected from the faucet pull-out spray head.

Background technique

Faucets are generally equipped with a pull-out spray. This pull-out spout allows the user to direct the water from the pull-out spout to where it is needed, which is not possible with traditional faucets. For example, when washing pots and dishes, the user can pull out the spray head and direct the water flow into the pot and dish instead of moving the pot or dish back and forth under the faucet. As such, pull-out sprayers are generally lighter and easier to handle with the items being cleaned.

Faucets with pull-out sprays are available in various spray modes. Therefore, the water discharge pattern includes a direct flow pattern, usually from an aerator, or a spray pattern, usually from a spray ring or nozzle arrangement. Typically a switch or the like that requires manual actuation by the user is used to switch between output modes. Additionally, flow control is usually regulated through a single mixing valve rather than separate hot and cold water control valves. Likewise, a pull-out spray faucet may require the user to manually switch between spray modes and use a single mixing valve to regulate water flow and temperature.

Therefore, there is a need to provide an improved pull-out spray faucet, which does not need to use a manual switch for switching between outlet spray modes, and also provides independent control of hot and cold water for the faucet.

Contents of the invention

A two-handle control faucet is constructed in accordance with the present invention and includes a pull-out spray head and a faucet base. The pull-out spray head can be switched between the first water outlet mode and the second water outlet mode. When removed from the faucet base, the pull-out spray head switches from the first spray mode to the second spray mode, providing automatic switching between the two spray modes.

Further applicability of the present invention will be better understood from the following detailed description. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while representing the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

Description of drawings

A fuller understanding of the invention can be obtained from the following detailed description of the claims, the examples, and the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 is an appearance view of a pull-out faucet constructed according to the principles of the present invention, which has a pull-out nozzle and independent hot and cold water control valves;

Fig. 2 is a perspective top view of the faucet base of the pull-out faucet in Fig. 1;

Figure 3 is a perspective view of the middle body of the pull-out faucet of Figure 1;

Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of the components of the pull-out spray head of the present invention;

Figure 5 is a perspective view of the flow toggle in Figure 4;

Figure 6 is a perspective view of the aerator housing in Figure 4;

Figure 7 is a perspective view of the aerator assembly of Figure 4;

Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a pull-out showerhead constructed in accordance with the present invention in a direct current mode;

Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the pull-out spray head in the spray mode;

Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of a pull-out spray head constructed in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 11 is a perspective view of the flow collar of Figure 10;

Figure 12 is a perspective view of the converter in Figure 10;

Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the pull-out nozzle in Fig. 10 in the direct current mode;

Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the pull-out nozzle shown in Fig. 10 in the spray mode;

Figure 15 is a perspective view of a bottom body structure constructed in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 16 is a partial sectional enlarged view of the bottom body structure shown in Fig. 15;

Figure 17 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary lavatory assembly constructed in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed ways

The following description of the preferred embodiments is exemplary only and is not intended to limit the invention and its application or uses.

Referring to FIGS. 1 , 2 and 3 , a pull-out faucet according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is indicated generally at 10 . Pull-out faucet 10 includes a faucet base 12 to which is attached a spout 14 . The faucet base 12 includes a hot water control valve 16 and a cold water control valve 18 , both of which provide flow regulation and are located at opposite ends of the faucet base 12 . The faucet base 12 also includes a central body 20 into which fluid flows from the hot and cold water control valves 16, 18 flow. The faucet cover 22 provides a decorative cover for the faucet base 12 and protects the faucet base 12 from the environment in which it is installed. The spout 14 consists of a rotating base 24 and a neck 26 . The pull-out spray head 28 is configured to be removably mounted to the spray tube 14 . Pull-out faucet 10 is typically mounted to sink 30 (shown in phantom) or any other suitable location. Conventional installation of the pull-out faucet 10 also includes connection to conventional hot water supply pipes 32 and conventional cold water supply pipes 34 .

The hot water control valve 16 also includes a hot water regulator or regulator valve 36 mounted on a hot water control valve assembly body 38 . The hot water supply pipe interface 40 is connected with the assembly main body 38 of the hot water control valve. A hot water cup pipe 42 (cupper pipe) connects the assembly body 38 of the hot water control valve to the middle body 20 . The cold water control valve 18 also includes a cold water regulator or regulator valve 44 mounted on a cold water control valve assembly body 46 . The cold water supply pipe interface 48 is connected with the assembly main body 46 of the cold water control valve. The cold water cup tube 50 connects the cold water control valve assembly body 46 to the mid body 20 .

The central body 20 includes a hot fluid inlet 52 , a cold fluid inlet 54 , and a mixed fluid outlet 56 . The central body 20 also includes a hose channel 58 . The middle body 20 is connected with the faucet body 12 . Those of ordinary skill in the art can easily recognize that the middle body 20 can be located at different positions on the faucet base 12 and can be fixed through various connection methods.

In one conventional arrangement, as shown in FIG. 1 , the pull-out faucet 10 is mounted on a platform 64 (shown in phantom) of the sink 30 . The middle body 20 is centered on the bottom plate 60 of the faucet, from which the hot water cup pipe 42 and the cold water cup pipe 50 extend to the hot water control valve 16 and the cold water control valve 18 respectively. The hot water cup pipe 42 is connected with the hot water regulator 36 inside the hot water control valve assembly body 38 . The assembly body 38 of the hot water control valve can also be configured to receive the hot water supply pipe 32 at the hot water supply pipe interface 40 . Likewise, the hot water regulator 36 controls the flow of hot water into the mid-body 20 , thereby controlling the amount of water sprayed from the pull-out spray 28 . The cold water cup pipe 50 is connected with the cold water regulator 44 inside the assembly body 46 of the cold water control valve. The assembly body 46 of the cold water control valve can also be configured to receive the cold water supply pipe 34 at the cold water supply pipe connection 48 . Like the hot water regulator 36 , the cold water regulator 44 controls the flow of cold water to the pull-out spray head 28 .

The faucet base 2 is installed on the platform 64 of the sink 30 . However, the assembly body 38 of the hot water control valve and the assembly body 46 of the cold water control valve pass through the platform 64 respectively, so that the hot water and cold water supply pipes 32, 34 are respectively connected to the hot water and cold water supply pipe connections 40, 48 below the platform 64 superior. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that a decorative cover may be used to cover the various components of pull-out faucet 10 . These covers may be used to protect the components they cover from the inherent parts of the sink arrangement, or may be purely aesthetic.

Those of ordinary skill in the art can easily imagine that the installation structure of the pull-out faucet 10 can take many forms, so that the faucet 10 can be installed in a conventional sink, wash basin, bathtub or any occasion where water supply needs to be adjusted. Therefore, different occasions may require many installation forms, so that various components are installed above or below a pool or the like. Other types of installations may not include a pool or pool deck at all.

The middle body 20 is connected to the hot water cup tube 42 and the cold water cup tube 50 at the hot fluid inlet 52 and the cold fluid inlet 54 respectively. Different flow rates of hot and cold water are mixed in the central body 20 and flow out from the mixed fluid outlet 56 . The mixed fluid outlet 56 is connected to a hose 66 that passes through the spout 14 and ultimately connects to the pull-out spray head 28 . Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that many configurations of faucet spouts and faucet bases are possible; likewise, the faucet base of the preferred embodiment can be connected to many different spout configurations, while the faucet of the most preferred embodiment The spout can be attached to many different configurations of faucet bases.

Spout 14 includes a swivel base 24 and a neck 26 from which a pull-out spray head 28 is removable. Pull-out spray head 28 is secured to hose 66 which includes weight 68 , threaded connection 70 and quick disconnect 72 . A hose 66 is connected to the mixed fluid outlet 56 of the mid-body 20 and then to the pull-out sprayer 28 . When connected to the mixed fluid outlet 56, the hose 66 passes through the platform 64 of the pool 30, which can provide a rope loop for hanging a hose slack 74 below the platform 64. The weight 68 is generally connected to the hose 66 along the midpoint of the hose reserve 74 . The hose 66 may also be divided into sections and secured by threaded connectors 70 or quick disconnects 72 . The use and configuration of the weight 68, the threaded connector 70 and the quick release joint 72 may be assembled in relation to each other and thus do not limit the invention or its operability. sex.

The fluid flow path of the pull-out faucet 10 is initiated by hot and cold water provided by hot and cold water supply lines 32, 34 which are connected to the hot water supply line interface 40 and the cold water supply line 40 respectively. The water supply pipeline interface 48 is connected. Hot water and cold water flow into the assembly body 38 of the hot water control valve and the assembly body 46 of the cold water control valve, respectively. The hot water regulator 36 and the cold water regulator 44 regulate the amount of hot water and cold water flowing into the middle body 20 through the hot water cup pipe 42 and the cold water cup pipe 50 , and through the hot fluid inlet 52 and the cold fluid inlet 54 . Mixed hot and cold water exits the central body 20 through the mixed fluid outlet 56 . The hose 66 connected to the mixed fluid outlet 56 conveys the mixed water below the deck 64 of the pool 30 and back through the deck 64 as the hose 66 passes through the hose channel 58 of the central body 20 . The hose 66 continues to carry the mixed water through the spout 14 and connects to the pull-out spray 28 at the end of the spout 14 . The mixed water is sprayed out of the water supply pool 30 and other occasions through the pull-out nozzle 28 for use.

Referring to FIGS. 4 , 5 , 6 and 7 , the pull-out spray head 28 includes a retaining ring 76 connected to a hose connector 82 through a housing 78 . The spring 80 and the first sealing ring 84 are connected to the hose connector 82 . Rubber washer 86 , hold down nut 88 and rubber spacer 90 are all contained within aeration assembly 92 . Second seal ring 94 is connected to aerator housing 96 which is connected to housing 78 .

The hose connector 82 also includes a hose connection 98 which can be connected to the hose 66 by means of the first threaded part 100 . The second threaded portion 102 is connected with the retaining ring 76 . The first seal ring seat 104 is configured to receive the first seal ring 84 . The sealing surface 106 defines a spout 108 that receives a deflector 110 , a deflector lip 112 , and a bracket 114 . The aerator housing 96 also includes an aerator assembly seat 116 , a spray ring 118 and a second seal ring seat 120 for receiving the second seal ring 94 .

Referring to FIGS. 4 , 8 and 9 , the pull-out spray head 28 is configured so that a portion of the hose connector 82 exits the inside of the housing 78 and connects to the retaining ring 76 which typically rests on top of the housing 78 . The retaining ring 76 is connected to the hose connector 82 by turning the retaining ring 76 over the second threaded member 102, and the retaining ring 76 and hose connector 82 can then move as a unit relative to the housing 78. One of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that many other methods of connecting retaining ring 76 and hose connector 82 may be used, one exemplary method being snap-in. Although housing 78 is secured to collar 76, when collar 76 is secured to hose connector 82, pull-out sprayer 28 is configured such that spring 80 clamps between annular flange 124 of housing 78 and the hose connection. device 82.

The first seal ring seat 104 on the hose connector 82 is configured to receive the first seal ring 84 . The seated first seal ring 84 positions and secures the hose connector 82 within the housing 78 and seals the inside of the housing 78 above the first seal ring 84 . Inserting the hose connector 82 into the housing 78 thus causes the first sealing ring 84 to contact and seal against the interior of the housing 82 . Furthermore, the first sealing ring 84 seals the hose connector 82 from the housing 78 such that fluid within the pull-out faucet 10 cannot pass the first sealing ring 84 in the direction of the retaining ring 76 .

The rubber washer 86 is formed within the inner ring 122 of the push-down nut 88; thus, when seated, the rubber washer 86 and the push-down nut 88 essentially become an assembly. When the nut 88 is pressed down, the aeration assembly 92 is fixed in the housing 96 of the aerator, and the rubber washer 86 can be rotated with the nut 88 being pressed down. However, the rubber washer 86 can remain operational in any angular orientation even as it rotates with the push-down nut 88 . When the down nut 88 rotates over the aeration assembly 92, the down nut 88 fixes the rubber gasket 90 against the aeration assembly 92; Inside.

The hose connector 82 includes a sealing surface 106 defining an outlet opening 108 . The deflector 110 and deflector edge 112 extend from the outlet 108 by means of a bracket 114 . The sealing surface 106 includes an annular bend 126 and the outflow opening 108 is located within the annular bend 126 . As such, the hose connector 82 has an internal passage 128 extending from the hose connector adapter 98 to the outflow port 108 . Extending from the outlet opening 108 is the deflector 110 , which includes a deflector edge 112 . The deflector 110 is positioned above the outflow opening 108 via four brackets 114 .

With the hose connector 82 connected to the retaining ring 76 and the aeration assembly 92 secured within the aeration housing 96 , the housing can be secured to the aeration housing 96 for final assembly of the pull-out spray head 28 . The aeration housing 96 is configured to receive the second sealing ring 94 such that when the housing 78 is rotated into connection with the aeration housing 96 , the second sealing ring 94 is compressed between the housing 78 and the aeration housing 96 . Compression of the second seal ring 94 prevents fluid from being pulled out of the pull spray head 28 from the area where the housing 78 and aeration housing 96 connect.

In FIG. 8 , the pull-out spray head 28 is shown as a straight flow, generally indicated by reference numeral 132 . In FIG. 9 , the pull-out spray head 28 is shown in a spray mode, generally indicated by reference numeral 130 . Spray mode 130 and direct flow mode 132 can be switched by moving hose connector 82 such that movement of hose connector 82 to the lowest point of travel causes pull-out spray head 28 to enter direct flow mode 132 . Conversely, moving the hose connector to the highest point of travel causes pull-out spray head 28 to enter spray mode.

In spray mode 130 , hose connector 82 is at the highest point of its travel so that deflector edge 112 of deflector 110 moves upward and seals against rubber gasket 86 . The deflector edge 112 seals the rubber gasket 86 to prevent fluid from continuing past the rubber gasket 86 , thereby forcing fluid to flow through the outside of the push-down nut 88 . As indicated by the arrow 134 indicating the direction of flow, the fluid continues into the annular channel 136 and is eventually sprayed out of the spray ring 118 .

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the spray ring comprises 16 rectangular ports 142 measuring approximately 0.04 inches by 0.05 inches. The fluid exits the rectangular opening 142 in jets which are individually visible compared to the jets of water exiting the aeration assembly 92 . Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that the rectangular hole 142 can have various sizes. Therefore, the rectangular hole 142 may be a round hole or any other suitable geometric shape. Also, the shower ring 118 may be of any suitable shape and size for generating water flow from it.

In straight mode 132 , hose connector 82 is at the lowest point of its travel such that sealing surface 106 and annular bend 126 seal against rubber gasket 86 . When sealed, deflector 110 sits beneath rubber gasket 86 such that fluid is forced out of outflow port 108 and into aeration assembly 92 . Therefore, fluid cannot flow through the area where the annular bend 126 seals against the rubber gasket 86 , thus preventing any fluid from flowing through the spray ring 118 . Likewise, fluid flowing from the pull-out spray head 28 in the straight flow pattern 132 flows through the aeration assembly 92 only in a straight flow pattern.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, aeration assembly 92 is commercially readily available from Neoperl, iNc. (Waterbury, CT) under the model designation Perlator. When the pull-out spray 28 is in the spray mode 130 compared to the water coming out of the spray ring, the fluid coming out of the aeration assembly 92 is a larger water column and no separate straight water column can be seen. Those of ordinary skill in the art will further appreciate that the resulting final pattern can be altered by modifying the aeration assembly 92 or the spray ring 118 .

Switching between the spray mode 130 and the direct flow mode 132 is accomplished by connecting or detaching the pull-out spray head 28 from the end of the neck 26 of the sink 14 . When the pull-out spray head 28 is secured to the spout 14, the pull-out spray head 28 remains in the straight flow mode 132 because the end of the neck 26 pushes the retaining ring 76 and thus the hose connector 82 down to the lowest point of its travel. point.

The pull-out spray head 28 is shown in FIG. 8 in a direct current mode 132 , and likewise, the spring 80 is configured in a naturally relaxed state 138 . The pull-out spray head shown in FIG. 9 is in the spray mode 130 , and the spring 80 is likewise configured in a compressed state 140 . Thus, as the spring 80 moves from the relaxed position 138 ( FIG. 8 ) to the compressed state 140 ( FIG. 9 ), spring force is generated within the spring 80 ;

However, pull-out spray head 28 is configured to remain in spray mode 130 while water or similar fluid flows through pull-out spray head 28 . Accordingly, fluid flowing through pull-out spray head 28 in spray mode 130 generates sufficient pressure on sealing surface 106 to maintain pull-out spray head 28 in this spray mode 130 . Likewise, spring 80 in compressed state 140 exerts sufficient force to return pull-out sprayer 28 to direct flow mode 132 when fluid flow is discontinued. Therefore, the elastic force generated by the spring 80 in the compressed state 140 is gradually smaller than the pressure acting on the sealing surface 106 of the hose connector 28 in the spray mode 130 .

Typically, the pull-out spray 28 remains in the direct flow mode 132 when the pull-out spray 28 is secured to the neck 26 . When a user (not shown) wishes to remove the pull-out spray head 28 from the neck 26, one can grasp the housing 78 or the aeration housing 96 and pull the pull-out spray head 28 from the neck 26 and manipulate the spray head arbitrarily. When the user pulls the pull-out spray head 28 from the neck 26, the hose 66, weight 68 and neck 26 also slightly impede the movement of the pull-out spray head 28, thereby allowing the pull-out spray head 28 to be pulled from the neck 26. The action of causes pull-out spray head 28 to change from direct current mode 132 to spray mode 130.

As noted above, if fluid flows through pull-out spray head 28 , spray head 28 will remain in spray mode 130 . If no fluid is flowing through the sprayer, the pull-out sprayer 28 switches back to the direct flow mode 132 when the force created by the action of pulling the pull-out sprayer 28 from the neck 26 is no longer present. Also, although the pull-out sprayer 28 can be pulled from the neck 26 while fluid is flowing through the pull-out sprayer 28, the user can turn off the faucet 10 so that the fluid no longer flows through the pull-out sprayer 28 and go on to other things. When the flow of fluid is shut off, the pull-out spray head 28 switches back to the direct flow mode 132 . Regardless of whether the pull-out spray head 28 is connected or detached from the neck 26, or whether fluid is flowing through the pull-out spray head 28, the user can manually push or pull the retaining ring 76 to manually switch between the spray mode 130 and the direct flow mode 132. Switch the pull-out spray head 28.

A user may also remove the pull-out spray 28 from the neck 26 of the faucet 10 by grasping the retaining ring 76 of the pull-out spray 28 rather than the housing 78 or the aerator housing 96 . In doing so, pull-out spray head 28 is prevented from switching to spray mode 130 . A user may continuously grasp and pull retaining ring 76 to switch pull-out spray head 28 from direct flow mode 132 to spray mode 130 .

Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the retaining ring 76 may take many forms, or may not include the pull-out faucet 10 . For example, retaining ring 76 may take the form of a button or collar secured to hose 66 , or any spray head control mechanism that assists the user in switching between the multiple spray modes of pull-out spray head 28 . Likewise, those skilled in the art will also understand that the spray pattern 130 and the direct flow pattern 132 or the typical spray pattern and the pull-out spray head 28 can be constructed with alternative spray pattern structures.

10 to 14 illustrate a pull-out spray head 28 constructed in accordance with an alternative preferred embodiment of the present invention. Likewise, the same structures in the respective embodiments are denoted by reference numerals representing the same structures. Those of ordinary skill in the art should understand that the disclosed structure in any embodiment can be interchanged with other embodiments. It should also be understood that the embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are illustrative and are not intended to limit the invention to the disclosed embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 10 , 11 and 12 , the pull-out spray head 28 includes an upper housing member 200 joined to a lower housing member 202 and collectively forming a housing 204 hereinafter. A flow collar 208 is contained within the housing 204 and includes a threaded portion 236 connectable to the hose 66 which passes through the upper housing member 200 . Spring 206 is retained between flow collar 208 and upper housing piece 200 . The flow collar 208 includes locating lugs 238 and a base 210 of the flow collar gasket in which the flow collar gasket 212 rests. Flow collar 208 also includes flow conduit 214 , flow conduit upper ferrule mount 216 and flow conduit lower ferrule mount 218 . The flow conduit upper gasket 220 sits on the flow conduit upper gasket seat 216 and the flow conduit lower gasket 222 sits on the flow conduit lower gasket seat 218 .

The flow conduit 214 of the flow collar 208 can move back and forth within a central bore 224 defined by a converter 226 . Converter 226 also defines a plurality of annular bores 228 surrounding central bore 224 . It should be understood that the central bore 224 is not connected in fluid communication with the plurality of annular bores 228 and vice versa. Additionally, the converter 226 is connected to the lower housing piece 202 and secured in place when the lower housing piece 202 is connected to the upper housing piece 200 .

Secured between the converter 226 and the lower housing member 202 is a spray ring 230 . Inside the spray ring 230 there is a water flow screen 232 . A water flow screen gasket 234 is placed between the converter 226 and the water flow screen 232 . Likewise, when the upper housing piece 200 is secured to the lower housing piece 202, the converter 232 secures the water flow screen gasket 234, the water flow screen 232, and the spray ring 230 within the lower housing piece.

The diverter 226 may be configured to contact the water flow screen washer 234 such that the water flow screen washer 232 prevents water from flowing through the spray ring 230 as water flows through the central aperture 224 of the diverter 226 . Conversely, when water flows through the plurality of annular holes 228 of the converter 226 , the water flow screen gasket 234 can prevent water from flowing through the water flow screen 232 .

The upper housing piece 200 is configured to include the spring 206 between the flange 240 and the outer surface 242 of the flow collar gasket base 210 . The stop lugs 238 may retain the flow collar 208 within the upper housing member 200 . The upper housing member 200 may also be configured to allow the lower housing member 202 to be coupled to conventional threads. Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that there are many ways to assemble the housing; some examples of this include snap-in, adhesive, or mechanically fastened connections.

Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14 , the pull-out spray head 28 exhibits a direct flow mode generally indicated by reference numeral 132 ( FIG. 13 ) and a spray mode generally indicated by reference numeral 130 ( FIG. 14 ). Movement of the flow collar 208 causes the flow conduit 214 to move back and forth within the central bore 234 of the converter 226 . When pull-out spray head 28 is in direct current mode 132 , flow collar 208 reaches a bottom position within housing 204 . In the direct current mode 132 , the flow line upper gasket 220 enters and seals the central bore 224 of the converter 226 . When pull-out spray head 28 is in spray mode 130, flow collar 208 reaches the apex of its own motion. In spray mode 130 , flow conduit lower gasket 222 seals within central bore 224 , thereby positioning flow conduit 214 above the inlet to central bore 224 .

In the straight-through mode 132, the flow line upper gasket 220 has entered the central bore 224 and sealed it. Likewise, flow conduit 214 ejects water below sealed central aperture 224 . Because the gasket 220 on the flow pipe has sealed the central hole 224 above the flow pipe 214 , the water sprayed from the flow pipe 214 can only pass through the flow screen 232 of the pull-out spray head 28 .

In spray mode 130 , the lower flow conduit gasket 222 has sealed the central bore 224 . Because the central bore 224 is sealed, water flowing from the flow conduit 214 must flow through the plurality of annular bores 228 of the diverter 226 . The water flowing through the plurality of annular holes 228 then flows through the spray ring 230 .

As will be readily understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, the flow screen 232 is a conventional aeration screen modified to allow water to flow from the pull-out spray head 28 in a generally uniform column. In contrast, spray ring 230 sprays water in a generally cone-shaped pattern that resolves individual water columns. Those of ordinary skill in the art will also appreciate that the resulting final pattern may vary with modifications to the flow screen 232 or spray ring 230 . Likewise, the flow path of the water is determined by the movement of the flow collar 208 through the diverter 226; although in fact the final pattern of the water produced can be altered to flow evenly, or even be cut off or sealed in areas where no water flows .

Switching between the straight-through mode 132 and the spray mode 130 may be accomplished by securing the pull-out spray head 28 to the end of the neck 26 of the spout 14 or by removing it. When the pull-out spray head 28 is connected to the spout 14, the pull-out spray head 28 remains in the straight flow mode 132 because the end of the neck 26 has pushed the flow collar 208 down to the bottom of its stroke. When the flow collar 208 moves down to the lowest point of its travel, the flow conduit 214 drains the water under the hole 224 in the converter 226 and the water is delivered in a straight flow mode 132 .

The pull-out spray head 28 is shown in FIG. 13 in a direct flow mode 132 , and likewise, the spring 206 is configured in a relaxed state 138 . The pull-out spray head is shown in FIG. 15 in a spray mode 130 , and likewise, the spring 206 is configured in a compressed state 140 . Thus, spring 206 exerts a spring force on spring 206 as it moves from relaxed position 138 (FIG. 13) to compressed state 140 (FIG. 14); thus, spring 206 exerts a predetermined force attempting to return to its relaxed position 138. However, the pull-out spray head 28 remains in the spray mode 130 when water or similar fluid is flowing through the pull-out spray head 28 . Fluid flowing through pull-out spray head 28 in spray mode 130 exerts sufficient pressure on bottom surface 244 of flow collar 208 to maintain pull-out spray head 28 in spray mode 130 . Likewise, spring 206 in compressed state 140 exerts sufficient spring force to return pull-out sprayer 28 to DC mode 132 when fluid flow is interrupted.

Typically, when the pull-out spray head 28 is connected to the neck 26, the pull-out spray head remains in the direct current mode 132. When a user (not shown) wishes to detach the pull-out spray head 28 from the neck 26, the user can grasp the housing 204 and pull the pull-out spray head 28 from the neck 26 and manipulate the spray head accordingly. When a user pulls pull-out sprayer 28 from neck 26, hose 66, weight 68, and neck 26 are configured to slightly restrict pull-out sprayer 28, thereby pulling pull-out sprayer 28 from neck 26 This will cause pull-out spray head 28 to transition from direct flow mode 132 to spray mode 130 .

As noted above, if fluid flows through the pull-out spray head 28, the spray head 28 will maintain the spray mode 130. If no fluid is flowing through the spray head, the pull-out spray head 28 is configured to return to the direct flow mode 132 when the force created by the action of pulling the pull-out spray head 28 from the neck 26 is no longer present. Furthermore, the pull-out spray 28 can be pulled off the neck 26 when fluid is flowing through the pull-out spray 28, but then the user can shut off the flow of fluid through the pull-out spray 28 by turning off the faucet so they can do other things. Pull-out spray head 28 returns to direct flow mode 132 when fluid flow is shut off.

15 and 16 illustrate a faucet 10 constructed in accordance with a preferred alternative embodiment of the present invention. Likewise, reference numerals denoting the same structure may be used to denote common components in the various embodiments. Those skilled in the art can understand that the structure disclosed in any embodiment can be interchanged with other embodiments. It should also be understood that the disclosed embodiments of the invention are illustrative in nature and are not intended to limit the invention to the disclosed embodiments.

Referring to Figures 15 and 16, reference numeral 300 generally indicates a bottom assembly. Base assembly 300 is a single casting that may include the components in faucet base 12 . To this end, the bottom assembly 300 is configured to include a hot water control valve assembly body 38 and a hot water supply pipeline interface 40 . The bottom assembly 300 also includes a cold water control valve assembly body 46 and a cold water supply pipe interface 48 . Compared with the cold water cup tube 50 , the middle body 20 and the hot water cup tube 42 , the bottom assembly 300 can be formed as a single component. Likewise, the connecting element 302 connects the cold water control valve assembly body 46 and the hot water control valve assembly body 38 .

Mounting collar 304 is attached to connection element 302 . The mounting collar is configured to be attachable to the spout 14 and also serves as a fluid connection between the connection element 302 and the spout 14 . Mounting collar 304 additionally defines a channel 306 for receiving a pop-rod, through which pop-rod 308 (FIG. 17) passes. The vacuum interrupter mount 310 is used to receive a vacuum interrupter 312 (FIG. 17). Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the vacuum interrupter may be positioned at various locations within the faucet 10 . As shown, the vacuum interrupter 312 is located within the base assembly 300, but could also be located in the hot or cold water control valve assembly body 38, 46 or other suitable location.

Similar to the central body 20 , the bottom assembly includes a hose through hole 58 centrally disposed on the bottom assembly 300 . The hose port 58 is slightly sloped to accommodate the geometry of the bottom assembly 300 but still allows the hose 66 to pass through the hose port 58 without hindrance. The mixed fluid outlet 56 is configured to be connected to a hose 66 ( FIG. 1 ).

Figure 17 shows a faucet 10 in a lavatory constructed in accordance with a preferred alternative embodiment of the present invention. Likewise, reference numerals denoting the same structure may be used to denote common components in the respective embodiments. Those skilled in the art can understand that the structure disclosed in any embodiment can be interchanged with other embodiments. It should also be understood that the disclosed embodiments of the invention are illustrative in nature and are not intended to limit the invention to the disclosed embodiments.

Although the installation in the bathroom has many similar structures compared with the kitchen installation, the common difference in configuration is that there is a gap between the hot water supply line connection 40 and the cold water supply line connection 48 . In a typical washroom installation, this distance is four inches (about 100 millimeters), but in a kitchen installation, the distance is about eight inches (about 203 millimeters). While typical of installations, some faucet configurations have only a single water control valve, so that the aforementioned spacing is not required. For this reason, many configurations are possible, and faucet 10 may be manufactured with the possibility of scaling components from kitchen to bathroom installations regardless of installation, which is more attractive to customers.

In fact, the description of the invention is, of course, exemplary only, and various modifications are therefore possible within the scope of the invention without departing from the gist of the invention. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims (20)

1. A faucet, comprising: A pull-out spray head and a faucet base, the pull-out spray head is switchable between a first water discharge mode and a second water discharge mode, wherein when detached from the faucet base, the pull-out spray head The mode is switched to the second water outlet mode. 2. The faucet of claim 1, wherein the first water discharge mode comprises a straight flow mode and the second water discharge mode comprises a spray mode. 3. The faucet of claim 1, further comprising a hot water control valve and a cold water control valve fluidly connected to one of the middle body and the bottom body assembly. 4. The faucet of claim 3, wherein the hot water control valve includes a closed position, an open position, and a plurality of positions between the closed position and the open position. 5. The faucet of claim 3, wherein said cold water control valve includes a closed position, an open position, and a plurality of positions between said closed position and said open position. 6. The faucet of claim 3, wherein said hot water passage connects said hot water control valve to said central body, and wherein said cold water passage fluidly connects said cold water control valve to said central body . 7. A sink faucet, comprising: a faucet base adapted to be mounted to a sink deck, said faucet base comprising a base body assembly having at least one water supply port fluidly connected to the water mixing body via a water supply valve and a spout; a hose slidably positioned within the spout, the hose having a first end fluidly connected to the mixing body; and a pull-out spray head fluidly connected to the second end of the hose, the pull-out spray head can be positioned in a deployed position so as to engage the spout tube so that the mode valve in the pull-out spray head passes through the direct flow port to Straight mode operation and disengagement of the spout in the extended position such that the mode valve operates in the spray mode through the spray port. 8. The sink faucet of claim 7, wherein said faucet base further comprises a first water supply port and a second water supply port, the first water supply port being fluidly connected to said mixing body through a first water supply valve, the second water supply port The water supply port is fluidly connected to the mixing water body through the second water supply valve. 9. The sink faucet of claim 7, wherein said mode valve includes a flow collar connected to said hose and is slidably positionable relative to said flow collar for causing said mode valve to mode and the switch to switch between the spray mode. 10. The sink faucet of claim 9, wherein said flow collar has radial flow conduits formed therein, said diverter has a central bore therein, said diverter is in a first position relative to said flow collar and slidably positionable between second positions, wherein the radial flow conduit is in fluid communication with the flow port in the first position, and the radial flow conduit is in fluid communication with the spray port in the second position fluid communication. 11. The sink faucet of claim 10, further comprising a spring operatively disposed within said pull-out spray to exert a biasing force on said switch toward said first position. 12. The sink faucet of claim 11, wherein said diverter has a sealing surface formed thereon, said sealing surface being in fluid communication with said radial flow conduit when said mode valve is in said spray mode, Thus, fluid pressure against the sealing surface counteracts the biasing force, maintaining the mode valve in the spray mode. 13. The sink faucet of claim 7, wherein said pull-out spray head further comprises: a first flow path from said hose through said mode valve to an aerator centrally disposed within said pull-out spray head to provide said direct flow mode; and A second flow path from the hose through the mode valve to a set of holes arranged around the diffuser to provide the spray mode. 14. The sink faucet of claim 13, wherein said mode valve includes a flow collar connected to said hose connection, and a switch slidable relative to said flow collar, said switch being positionable at A first position is selected for the first flow path and a second position is selected for the second flow path. 15. The sink faucet of claim 14, wherein said flow collar has radial flow conduits and said diverter has a central hole formed therein, wherein a portion of said flow collar underlies said central hole , such that when the converter is in the first position, the first flow path is defined from the radial flow conduit to the direct flow port, and wherein the radial flow conduit is located above the central bore , such that when the diverter is in the second position, the second flow path is defined from the radial flow conduit to the spray opening. 16. The sink faucet of claim 15, further comprising a spring operatively disposed within said pull-out spray to exert a biasing force on said switch toward said first position. 17. The sink faucet of claim 16, wherein said diverter has a sealing surface formed thereon, said sealing surface being in fluid communication with said radial flow conduit when said diverter is in said second position, Thus, fluid pressure against the sealing surface counteracts the biasing force, maintaining the mode valve in the spray mode. 18. A pull-out nozzle for a faucet, comprising: shell; a hose connector slidably supported on said housing, said hose connector having a flow channel formed therethrough and terminating in a flow guide having radial flow conduits formed therein; a converter having a hole formed therein, a first port and a second port, said converter being fixedly supported on said housing such that said hose connector is positionable between a first position and a second position, the deflector extends through the bore in the first position, the deflector seals the bore in the second position; a spring interposed between the housing and the hose connector to exert a biasing force on the hose connector towards the first position; wherein, when the hose connector is in the first position, a first flow path is defined by the channel, the radial flow conduit and the first interface to provide a first water outlet mode; and Wherein, when the hose connector is in the second position, a second flow path is defined by the channel, the radial flow conduit and the second interface to provide a second water outlet mode. 19. The pull-out spray head of claim 18, wherein said diverter is formed with a sealing surface that is in contact with said radial flow when said hose connector is in said second position. The conduits are in fluid communication such that fluid pressure applied to the sealing surface counteracts the biasing force to maintain the hose connector in the second position. 20. A faucet, comprising: a pull-out spray head attached to the faucet base, said pull-out spray head including a flow collar and a converter; the converter includes a first flow path and a second flow path; the flow collar is switchable between a first position directing fluid flow through the first flow passage and a second position directing fluid flow through the second flow passage, wherein detaching the pull-out spray from the faucet base switches the flow collar from the first position to the second position.

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