TWI862783B - Faucet spray head alignment system - Google Patents

Abstract

A faucet includes a faucet body and a faucet spray head being movable from a retracted position adjacent the faucet body, and an extended position away from the faucet body. In the retracted position, the faucet spray head has at least one aligned position with the faucet body. The faucet includes an alignment coupling. The alignment coupling includes first and second alignment elements connected to the faucet body and the faucet spray head, respectively, to align the spray head with the faucet body. The faucet includes a retention coupling that is configured to retain the faucet body and the faucet spray head immediately adjacent one another. The retention coupling includes first and second retention elements connected to the faucet body and the faucet spray head, respectively. The retention coupling is separate from the alignment coupling, and at least one of the first or second retention elements is a magnet.

Description

Faucet spray head alignment system

The present invention relates to a faucet spray head alignment system.

Liquid dispensing devices, specifically faucets, can be found in many different rooms of a building, including (but not limited to) bathrooms and kitchens. Many typical kitchen faucets utilize a pull-down feature that allows the spray head to be disengaged and separated from the faucet body. This allows the user to manipulate the spray head. When the user is finished using the spray head, the spray head typically utilizes a pull-back system (such as a weight on a water pipe) to allow the spray head to retract toward a position that interfaces with the faucet body.

Faucets are often designed to have an aesthetic appearance to match the style of a particular user or the style of a particular room/home. For example, faucets can have a variety of different finishes, shapes, etc. to allow users to decorate a particular room according to their preferences. Some faucets use an asymmetric spray head design to achieve a specific style appearance of the faucet when the spray head is docked with the faucet body. However, this creates a problem when the faucet is re-docked with the faucet body. If a typical pull-back system is utilized, the asymmetric head can dock with the faucet body in a variety of ways, most of which are positions that are not aligned with the faucet body. This results in an undesirable faucet appearance and destroys the aesthetic appearance, which is the first point in designing a faucet. In addition, whether the faucet is asymmetrical or symmetrical, a properly docked and fixed sprinkler head is expected. Improvement is needed.

The present invention generally relates to a fluid dispensing device. In one possible configuration, and by way of non-limiting example, a pull-down faucet has a retaining coupling that holds the faucet body and the faucet spray head adjacent to each other in a docked state.

One aspect of the present invention relates to a faucet. The faucet includes a faucet body and a faucet spray head, and the faucet spray head can move from a retracted position adjacent to the faucet body and an extended position away from the faucet body. In the retracted position, the faucet spray head has at least one position aligned with the faucet body. The faucet includes an alignment coupling. The alignment coupling includes a first alignment element, which is connected to the faucet body; and a second alignment element, which is connected to the faucet spray head. The alignment coupling includes a protrusion and a tapered groove. At least one of the protrusion or the tapered slot is movable relative to the other, and the tapered slot guides the protrusion to a narrow portion of the tapered slot to guide the faucet spray head to the at least one alignment position. The faucet includes a retaining coupling configured to hold the faucet body and the faucet spray head in close proximity to each other. The retaining coupling includes a first retaining element connected to the faucet body; and a second retaining element connected to the faucet spray head. The retaining coupling is separate from the alignment coupling, and at least one of the first retaining element or the second retaining element is a magnet.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a faucet. The faucet includes a faucet body having an outlet and a hose positioned within the faucet body and passing through the outlet. The hose is movable within the faucet body. The faucet includes a faucet spray head connected to the hose and movable between an extended position and a retracted position. When in the extended position, the spray head is spaced from the outlet of the faucet body, and when in the retracted position, the spray head is positioned adjacent to the outlet. The faucet includes an alignment coupling including a first alignment element connected to the faucet body and a second alignment element connected to the faucet spray head. The alignment coupling aligns the faucet spray head with the faucet body. The faucet includes a retaining coupling configured to hold the faucet body and the faucet spray head adjacent to each other. The retaining coupling includes a first retaining element connected to the faucet body adjacent to the first alignment element; and a second retaining element at least partially positioned in the faucet spray head by the second alignment element. At least one of the first retaining element or the second retaining element is a magnet.

Another aspect of the present invention relates to a faucet. The faucet includes a faucet body and a faucet spray head, which can be positioned at an outlet of the faucet body and can be separated from an outlet of the faucet body. The faucet spray head has at least one position aligned with the faucet body. The faucet includes a retaining coupling, which is configured to keep the faucet body and the faucet spray head close to each other. The retaining coupling includes a first retaining element, which is connected to the outlet of the faucet body. The first retaining element includes a fixing feature, which is configured to help reduce relative movement between the first retaining element and the outlet. The retaining coupling includes a second retaining element positioned in the faucet spray head by a flange. When the faucet body and the faucet spray head are adjacent to each other, the flange is positioned between the first retaining element and the second retaining element. At least one of the first retaining element or the second retaining element is a magnet.

Various additional aspects will be described in the following description. Aspects may relate to individual features and combinations of features. It should be understood that both the above general description and the following detailed description are for illustration and explanation only and do not limit the broad range of embodiments upon which the embodiments disclosed herein are based.

35: Line

100: faucet

102: Faucet body

103: Outer contour

104: Faucet spray head

105:Outer contour

106: Faucet body outlet

108: Curved neck/neck

110: User input

112: Sprinkler outlet

114: Alignment coupling

116: First alignment element

118: Second alignment element

120: Lower inner surface

121: Top side

122: Path

124: Water pipe/hose

126: Tongue

128: Faucet body alignment part

130: Groove

131: Ring

132: Highlights

134: Inner cavity

136: Slot

138: Centering element

140: Wall

142: Inclined part

144: First End

146: Second end

147: Open mouth

148: Wall

150: Acupoints

152: Channel

154: Open mouth

156: Internal thread

158: Groove

160: Shell

162: Valve

166: Attachment part

168: Highlights

170:Connector

218: Second alignment element

258: Internal thread

316: First alignment element

317: Open your mouth

318: Second alignment element

319: Channel

321: Conical outer surface

332: Highlight

338: Centering element

348: Inclined surface

350: Acupoints

415:Internal passage of the connector

417: Spherical part

418: Second alignment element

419: Water pipe joint

460: First end

462: Second end

466: Attachment part

470: Valve assembly

472: Second alignment stop element

474: Sprinkler head stop

475: Seal assembly

476: Bracket

477:Shaft ring

478: First seal

479: Second seal

480: Seal bracket

481: Spring

482: Spring Cage

483: Internal passage

484: First end

485: Conical hole

486: Main cavity

487: Second end

488: First axial side

489: Second axial side

490: Hole

491: Inner sealed chamber

492: First end

493: Second end

494: Dragon part

495: flange

497:Sewing

498:Highlight

499: Groove

500: faucet

502: Faucet body

504: Faucet sprinkler head

506: Faucet body outlet

507: Prominent

508: Neck

509: Groove

510: User input

514: Alignment coupling

515: Retention coupling

516: First alignment element

517: First retaining element

518: Second alignment element

519: Second retaining element

521: Positioning ring

522: Cover

523: Buffer

524: Water pipe joint

525: flange

526: Tongue

531: Ring

532: Highlights

533: Auxiliary alignment protrusion

535: Fasteners

536: Slot

537: Wall

539:Thread

542: Inclined part

544: First end

546: Second end

548: Alignment stop

550: Align the spray head to the stop

552: Spring negative carrier

554: Rotation stop

562: Valve

B: Center axis

F1: First direction

F2: Second direction

H: Horizontal

S: longitudinal axis

W: Arrow/pressurized water

X: vertical axis

θ: angle

The following figures illustrate specific embodiments of the present invention and therefore do not limit the scope of the present invention. The figures are not drawn to scale and are intended to be used in conjunction with the description in the following detailed description. The following will describe embodiments of the present invention in conjunction with the attached figures, in which the same numbers indicate the same elements.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a faucet with a sprinkler head in an aligned position according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the faucet of FIG. 1 (excluding a water pipe) with the sprinkler head in an extended, misaligned position.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective schematic view of the faucet of FIG. 1 with the sprinkler head in an extended, misaligned position.

FIG. 4 shows a perspective schematic view of the faucet of FIG. 1 with the sprinkler head in an extended, misaligned position.

FIG. 5 shows a perspective schematic diagram of the faucet of FIG. 1 with the spray head in an aligned position.

FIG. 6 shows a side cross-sectional view of the faucet of FIG. 1 with the spray head in an aligned position.

FIG. 7 shows a side cross-sectional view of a faucet body and a first alignment element of the faucet of FIG. 1 .

FIG8 shows a perspective view of a spray head and a second alignment element of the faucet of FIG1.

FIG. 9 shows a partial perspective exploded view of the spray head and the second alignment element of FIG. 8 .

FIG. 10 shows a partial perspective exploded view of an alignment coupling member including a first alignment element and a second alignment element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of the alignment coupling of FIG. 10 in a fully engaged position.

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of the first alignment element of FIG. 10 .

FIG. 13 shows another perspective view of the first alignment element of FIG. 10 .

FIG. 14 shows a side cross-sectional view of the first alignment element of FIG. 10 .

FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of the second alignment element of FIG. 10 .

FIG. 16 shows a side view of the second alignment element of FIG. 10 .

FIG. 17 shows a side cross-sectional view of the second alignment element of FIG. 10 .

FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of a second alignment element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an alignment feature of the alignment coupling member of FIG. 10 .

FIG. 20 shows another diagram of the alignment features of the alignment coupling member of FIG. 10 .

FIG. 21 shows another illustration of the alignment features of the alignment coupling of FIG. 10 in a fully engaged position corresponding to the aligned position of the interface and the sprinkler head.

FIG. 22 shows a perspective exploded view of a spray head of the faucet in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 23 shows a perspective view of the second alignment element of the alignment coupling of FIG. 10 attached to a water pipe.

FIG. 24 shows a side cross-sectional view of the second alignment element of FIG. 23 .

FIG. 25 shows a perspective view of a first alignment element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 26 shows a front view of the first alignment element of FIG. 25 .

FIG. 27 shows a perspective side cross-sectional view of one of the first alignment elements of FIG. 25 .

FIG. 28 shows a perspective view of a second alignment element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 29 shows a front view of the second alignment element of FIG. 28 .

FIG. 30 shows a perspective view of a second alignment element, a water pipe joint and a valve assembly according to an example of the present invention.

FIG. 31 shows a perspective view of the valve assembly separated from the second alignment element and the water pipe connector of FIG. 30 .

FIG. 32 shows another perspective view of the valve assembly of FIG. 31 .

FIG. 33 shows an exploded view of the second alignment element, water pipe joint and valve assembly of FIG. 30 .

FIG. 34 shows a side view of the second alignment element and the water pipe joint of FIG. 30 .

FIG. 35 shows a cross-sectional side view of the second alignment element along line 35-35 of FIG. 34 .

FIG. 36 shows a perspective view of a portion of a sealing assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 37 shows another perspective view of a portion of the seal assembly of FIG. 36 .

FIG. 38 shows an exploded view of a portion of the seal assembly of FIG. 36 .

FIG. 39 shows a schematic perspective view of a sealing assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 40 shows a perspective view of a faucet with a sprinkler head in an aligned position according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 41 shows a perspective view of the faucet of FIG. 40 (excluding a water pipe) with the sprinkler head in an extended, misaligned position.

FIG. 42 shows a perspective schematic view of the faucet of FIG. 40 with the sprinkler head in an extended, misaligned position.

FIG. 43 shows another perspective schematic view of the faucet of FIG. 40 with the sprinkler head in an extended, misaligned position.

FIG. 44 shows a perspective schematic diagram of the faucet of FIG. 40 with the spray head in an aligned position.

FIG. 45 shows a side cross-sectional view of the faucet of FIG. 40 with the spray head in an aligned position.

FIG46 shows a side cross-sectional view of a faucet body of the faucet in FIG40.

FIG. 47 shows a perspective view of a spray head and a second alignment element of the faucet of FIG. 40 .

FIG. 48 shows a partial perspective exploded view of the spray head and the second alignment element of FIG. 47 .

FIG. 49 shows a perspective view of a first alignment element of the faucet of FIG. 40 .

FIG. 50 shows a perspective view of the second alignment element of the faucet of FIG. 40 and a water pipe connector.

FIG. 51 shows another perspective view of the second alignment element of the faucet of FIG. 40 .

FIG. 52 shows a perspective view of the spray head of the faucet of FIG. 40 and a spray head alignment stop.

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Application No. 16/549,742 filed on August 23, 2019; it claims the rights of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/849,570 filed on May 17, 2019 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/722,092 filed on August 23, 2019, the entire texts of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings, wherein like element symbols represent like parts and assemblies in all the various views. Reference to various embodiments does not limit the scope of the claims attached thereto. In addition, any examples described in this specification are not intended to limit and merely describe some of the many possible embodiments of the attached claims.

The present invention relates to a faucet, which comprises an alignment coupling and a retaining coupling. The alignment coupling ensures that a spray head of the faucet can be reliably returned to an alignment position and the retaining coupling keeps the faucet spray head close to a faucet body.

The alignment coupling further facilitates reliable and complete docking of the spray head within the faucet body. The alignment coupling includes alignment elements in the faucet body and adjacent to the spray head and interface with each other to provide alignment movement. In some examples, at least one of the alignment elements is positioned at least partially around a water pipe of the faucet. In another example, the alignment element includes an alignment feature, which includes a corresponding protrusion and a groove (e.g., a v-shaped groove) so that when the groove receives the protrusion, it guides the protrusion to a narrow portion of the groove, thereby aligning the spray head with the faucet body. By facilitating reliable alignment and retraction of the spray head, the alignment coupling preserves the aesthetics of the faucet when not in use and further optimizes positioning for a specific use.

The retention coupling further facilitates securely holding the spray head adjacent to the faucet body. This can be accomplished by using at least one magnet and a magnetically attractive material (e.g., steel). In some examples, the retention coupling includes two attractive components that are configured not to touch each other.

FIG. 1 shows a faucet 100 including a faucet body 102 and a faucet spray head 104 detachable from a faucet body outlet 106 of the faucet body 102. As shown in FIG. 1 , the spray head 104 interfaces with the faucet body 102. The spray head 104 is removable from the faucet body 102 to allow a user to manipulate the spray head 104 during use. This is facilitated by a water pipe (shown schematically in FIG. 6 ) having excess length attached to the spray head 104 and positioned within the faucet body 102.

The faucet 100 is configured to dispense water from a source of water flowing from a sprinkler outlet 112 of the sprinkler 104. In addition, the faucet 100 is configured to be controlled (i.e., on/off, water volume, and water temperature) via conventional methods (e.g., a handle) and/or via gestures or voice. Although the faucet 100 may be a pull-down kitchen faucet, the present invention encompasses other types of faucets, including (but not limited to) pull-out faucets. Although the present invention will be discussed with respect to a kitchen faucet for purposes of example, the system described herein may be implemented in any type of pull-down faucet and/or a pull-out faucet, including a side auxiliary spray faucet. In some embodiments, the faucet 100 is a shower head in a shower. In some embodiments, the faucet 100 is any fluid dispensing device configured to dispense fluid therefrom.

The faucet body 102 can have a variety of different shapes and sizes to provide a variety of different appearances with different aesthetics. As shown, the faucet body 102 includes a curved neck 108 between the outlet 106 and the opposite end of the faucet body 102. The faucet body 102 can be mounted in a variety of different locations, such as (but not limited to) a countertop, a wall, a ceiling, etc. In some examples, the faucet body 102 is fixed to a location such as near a kitchen sink.

As mentioned above, the showerhead 104 is detachable such that it can be separated from the faucet body 102 to allow for user-operable alignment of the showerhead 104. The showerhead 104 may include a user input 110 positioned thereon to allow a user to vary the characteristics of the water discharged at the showerhead outlet 112. In some examples, operation of the user input 110 may facilitate varying a valve positioned within the showerhead 104 (see FIG. 22 ). The user input 110 may vary the characteristics of the discharged water, such as (but not limited to) water volume and/or temperature. In some examples, the user input 110 is one of a button, a touch-sensitive surface, or the like.

An outer profile 103 of the spray head 104 can have a variety of different shapes and sizes to provide a variety of different aesthetic configurations of the faucet 100. In some examples, the spray head 104 can be configured to have an outer profile 103 that mates with an outer profile 105 of the faucet body 102. In some examples, the spray head 104 is generally asymmetrical. In other examples, the spray head 104 is generally symmetrical.

In the example depicted in FIG. 1 , the showerhead 104 has an alignment position when it is docked with the faucet body 102. The alignment position is a position to which the showerhead 104 automatically returns each time it is docked with the faucet body 102. The alignment position can be a variety of different positions, depending on the aesthetics of the faucet 100 and the specific use of the faucet 100. In the depicted example, the showerhead 104 has an asymmetric outer contour and has an alignment position that aligns the outer contour of the faucet body 102 (specifically, the neck 108) with the outer contour of the showerhead 104. This allows for a consistent outer profile for the faucet 100, including the faucet body 102 and the spray head 104. Additionally, as shown, when in the aligned position, the user input 110 is positioned facing the faucet body 102 to maintain a clean aesthetic from the front of the faucet 100. In some examples, when in the aligned position, the user input 110 is positioned facing to the left, to the right, or away from the faucet body 102.

In some examples, the sprinkler 104 may include a weight (not shown) to change the center of gravity of the sprinkler 104 in a manner to urge the sprinkler 104 into an aligned position. In some examples, the weight may be positioned at a particular side of the sprinkler 104 so that the weight naturally rotates the sprinkler 104 due to gravity in a manner where the weight becomes positioned at a lower side of the sprinkler 104 when in an aligned position. This may be accomplished by placing the weight adjacent to the sprinkler outlet 112 and offsetting the longitudinal axis of the sprinkler 104.

2-5 illustrate movement of the sprinkler head 104 to an aligned position during docking. This alignment is facilitated by an alignment coupling 114 comprising a first alignment element 116 and a second alignment element 118. At least one of the first alignment element 116 or the second alignment element 118 is movable relative to the other. In the depicted example, the second alignment element 118 is movable relative to the first alignment element 116.

The first alignment element 116 and the second alignment element 118 can be positioned at a variety of different locations on the faucet 100. In the illustrated example shown, the first alignment element 116 is positioned within the faucet body 102 and the second alignment element 118 is positioned adjacent to the sprinkler 104. In some examples, the second alignment element 118 is attached to the sprinkler 104. In other examples, the second alignment element 118 is positioned around a water pipe (not shown) of the faucet 100. In other examples, the second alignment element 118 is attached to a water pipe of the faucet 100. In some examples, the first alignment element 116 and the second alignment element 118 are integrally formed in the faucet body 102 and the sprinkler 104. In some embodiments, the first alignment element 116 and the second alignment element 118 are separate parts from the faucet body 102 and the spray head 104.

FIG. 2 shows the showerhead 104 detached from the faucet body 102. Although a water hose (not shown) is typically connected to the showerhead 104 and routed within the outlet 106 of the faucet body 102, the water hose is omitted for purposes of illustration. The outlet 106 allows access to a path 122 that is at least partially disposed within the faucet body 102 so that the water hose can be routed to a water source.

FIG. 3 shows the spray head 104 partially interfaced with the outlet 106 of the faucet body 102. For illustration, a cross-sectional isometric view of the faucet body 102 is shown. The spray head 104 is shown rotated along its longitudinal axis in a direction facing the side of the faucet 100 facing the user input 110. In this particular example, such a position is considered a misaligned position of the spray head 104. The spray head 104 may include a plurality of misaligned positions. In some examples, each position where the spray head 104 is not in an aligned position when the spray head 104 is in contact with the faucet body 102 is considered a misaligned position.

As shown, the first alignment element 116 and the second alignment element 118 are shown to interface with each other to initiate an alignment movement caused by the configuration of the alignment coupling 114. When the spray head 104 is stretched closer to the outlet 106 by (for example) a pullback device (such as a weight, spring, reel, etc.), the spray head 104 automatically rotates toward the alignment position via the alignment coupling 114. As shown in Figure 4, due to the interface of the first alignment element 116 and the second alignment element 118 of the alignment coupling 114, the spray head 104 is further rotated closer to the alignment position. Figure 5 shows the spray head 104 positioned in the alignment position and fully docked with the faucet body 102.

FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the faucet 100 with the sprinkler 104 in the aligned position. FIG. 6 also shows a water pipe 124 attached to the sprinkler 104 and positioned within the path 122 of the faucet body 102. The water pipe 124 can be attached to the sprinkler in a variety of ways, including attachment to the second alignment element 118. As shown, the first alignment element 116 of the alignment coupling 114 includes a tongue 126 that interfaces with the hose 124 and lifts the hose 124 from a lower interior surface 120 of the path 122. In some examples, the tongue 126 is configured to control an angle θ at which the water pipe 124 enters the path 122 relative to the horizontal H. Depending on the orientation and configuration of the faucet 100, the angle θ may vary. In some examples, the angle θ is between about 30 degrees and 60 degrees relative to the horizontal H. In some examples, the angle θ is 45 degrees relative to the horizontal H.

The water pipe 124 can be any of a variety of different types, including (but not limited to) a nylon braided hose, a metal braided hose, a flexible hose, a coated hose, etc.

FIG. 7 shows a side view of the first alignment element 116 positioned in the outlet 106 of the faucet body 102. In some examples, the first alignment element 116 is positioned within a portion of the neck 108 of the faucet. In some examples, the first alignment element 116 is fixed within the outlet 106 of the faucet body 102. In some examples, the first alignment element 116 is fixed to the faucet body 102 by a fastener (such as (but not limited to) at least one screw, bolt, adhesive and/or the like). As mentioned above, the first alignment element 116 can be integrated with the faucet body 102. In other examples, the first alignment element 116 is fixed to the faucet body 102 by a press fit. In other examples, the first alignment element 116 is fixed to the faucet body 102 by brazing, welding, or the like.

In some examples, the first alignment element 116 includes a faucet body alignment portion 128, a protrusion 132, and a ring 131. In some examples, the faucet body alignment portion 128 facilitates proper alignment of the first alignment element 116 within the outlet 106 of the faucet body 102. The faucet body alignment portion 128 can assist in proper assembly of the faucet 100, making it easier to properly orient the first alignment element 116 at the outlet 106 to facilitate desired alignment of the spray head 104 once the faucet 100 is assembled. In some examples, the faucet body alignment portion 128 is one of a protrusion and a groove. The faucet body alignment portion 128 can engage with a corresponding protrusion or groove 130 of the faucet body 102.

As shown, the first alignment element 116 also includes an alignment feature including a protrusion 132 positioned at a top side 121 of the path 122 and extending from a top side of the ring 131 of the first alignment element 116. As will be described in more detail herein, the protrusion 132 is configured to interface with the second alignment element 118 to move the spray head 104 into an aligned position during docking. In some examples, the protrusion 132 is on a side of the first alignment element 116 opposite the tongue 126.

In the depicted example, the first alignment element 116 also includes a ring 131 positioned at the outlet 106 of the faucet body 102. In some examples, the ring 131 is positioned within the faucet body 102 to surround the path 122. In some examples, the protrusion 132 extends radially inwardly from the ring 131 and the tongue 126 extends axially therefrom. In some examples, the ring 131 also includes the faucet body alignment portion 128.

FIG. 8 shows the second alignment element 118 mounted to the sprinkler head 104. FIG. 9 shows the second alignment element 118 spaced apart from an inner cavity 134 of the sprinkler head 104. In some examples, the second alignment element 118 is fixed to the sprinkler head 104 to prevent relative movement therebetween. In some examples, the second alignment element 118 is mounted adjacent to the sprinkler head 104. In some examples, as shown in FIG. 6, the second alignment element 118 is positioned around the end of the water pipe 124. In some examples, the second alignment element 118 is mounted to the hose 124.

The second alignment element 118 includes an alignment feature including a groove 136 positioned at a periphery of the second alignment element 118. As will be discussed in further detail herein, the groove 136 is configured to interface with the protrusion 132 of the first alignment element 116 to move the sprinkler 104 toward an aligned position during docking. The second alignment element 118 also includes a centering element 138 positioned circumferentially around its outer surface. The centering element 138 is configured to interface with the outlet 106 of the faucet body 102 to assist in centering the sprinkler 104 during docking. In some examples, the centering element 138 is configured to interface with a portion of the first alignment element 116. In some examples, the centering element 138 is a fin, wherein the narrowest side of the fin is configured to first interface with the faucet body 102/first alignment element 116.

FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of the alignment coupling 114 when the first alignment element 116 and the second alignment element 118 are positioned in a fully engaged position. FIG. 11 shows the alignment coupling 114 partially exploded and shows the first alignment element 116 and the second alignment element 118 spaced apart from each other. As shown, the second alignment element 118 has a generally cylindrical outer profile shape and the first alignment element 116 has a complementary shape, such as a circular recess (e.g., ring 131), which is used to receive the outer profile of the second alignment element 118 therein. In some examples, the relationship can be reversed and the first alignment element 116 can have a cylindrical shape and the second alignment element 118 has a complementary shape. Within the scope of the present invention, it is contemplated that the first alignment element 116 or the second alignment element 118 may have a variety of different geometric profiles and is not limited to a cylindrical shape and corresponding complementary shapes.

In some examples, the fully engaged position of the first alignment element 116 and the second alignment element 118 corresponds to the alignment position of the sprinkler head 104. In some examples, when in the fully engaged position, a longitudinal axis S of the second alignment element 118 and a central axis B of the ring 131 of the first alignment element 116 are generally aligned. In the depicted example, when the alignment coupling 114 is in the fully engaged position, the protrusion 132 of the first alignment element 116 is received and positioned within the groove 136 of the second alignment element 118. As shown, the second alignment element 118 is configured to be positioned within at least a portion of the first alignment element 116. In some examples, when in the fully engaged position, the second alignment element 118 is positioned within the ring 131 of the first alignment element 116.

Figures 12 and 13 show perspective views of the first alignment element 116. Figure 14 shows a side cross-sectional view. As shown, the first alignment element 116 includes a ring 131, wherein a protrusion 132 extends radially inward from the ring 131. The first alignment element 116 also includes a tongue 126 extending generally in an axial direction away from the ring 131. In addition, the first alignment element 116 includes a faucet body alignment portion 128 at a lower side of the ring 131. In the example shown, the faucet body alignment portion 128 is a protrusion.

In some examples, the ring 131 is only a partial ring and is configured to only partially surround the path 122 of the outlet 106 of the faucet body 102. In addition, the protrusion 132 can extend radially inward from the ring 131 at any point on the ring 131. For example, as shown, the protrusion 132 can extend inward from either side of the ring 131 or from the bottom of the ring 131 instead of just from the top thereof. In addition, the ring 131 can include a plurality of other alignment features disposed thereon, such as (but not limited to) additional protrusions and/or grooves.

As shown in FIG. 14 , the tongue 126 may include a wall 140 that at least partially defines an inclined portion 142. As mentioned above, the tongue 126, specifically the wall 140, extends in a generally axial direction away from the ring 131. Although in the example shown, the first alignment element 116 includes the tongue 126, the first alignment element does not necessarily include a tongue 126. In some examples, the first alignment element 116 only includes an alignment feature, such as a protrusion 132.

The first alignment element 116 can be made of a variety of different materials, including (but not limited to) metals (such as aluminum) and plastics (such as Rulon, Derlin or other PTFE-like plastics).

15 to 17 show the second alignment element 118. FIG. 15 shows a perspective view, FIG. 16 shows a side view and FIG. 17 shows a side cross-sectional view.

The second alignment element 118 includes a first end 144 and a second end 146. The first end 144 is configured to be inserted into the faucet body 102 before the second end 146. In some examples, the first end 144 is configured to receive the water pipe 124 at an opening 147. In some examples, the second end 146 is configured to be attached to a portion of the sprinkler head 104.

In some examples, the second alignment element 118 includes a pair of slots 136 positioned at opposite sides of the second alignment element 118. In some examples, only a single slot 136 is used for alignment. Each slot 136 includes a pair of walls 148 that together define the boundaries of the slot 136. In some examples, the slots 136 have a tapered shape defined by the walls 148 that extend toward each other from the first end 144 in a direction toward the second end 146. In some examples, the tapered shape of the slots 136 is v-shaped. In some examples, the walls 148 extend toward each other from the first end 144 in a generally axial direction. In some examples, the walls 148 extend toward each other in a partial axial direction and a partial circumferential direction. The groove 136 is configured in a manner such that the walls 148 adjacent the first end 144 are separated by a distance to define the widest portion of the groove 136. As the walls 148 extend toward the second end 146, the walls 148 gradually taper the groove 136 until they intersect each other. Adjacent the intersection of the walls 148, the groove 136 has its narrowest width and defines a cavity 150.

FIG. 17 shows a cross-sectional view of the second alignment element 118. As shown, the second alignment element 118 defines a channel 152 extending longitudinally through the second alignment element 118. The opening 147 at the first end 144 is a first opening of the channel 152 and the opening 154 at the second end 146 is a second opening of the channel 152. The channel is configured to receive the water pipe 124 within the opening 147 at the first end 144. The channel is further configured to connect to the sprinkler head 104 at the opening 154 at the second end 146. In some examples, the channel 152 may include threads, a groove, a series of protrusions and/or other similar attachment structures to facilitate attaching the water pipe 124 and the sprinkler head 104 thereto. In the depicted example, the channel 152 includes internal threads 156 for attaching the water pipe 124 and a series of grooves 158 adjacent the opening 154 of the second end 146 to receive corresponding protrusions of an attachment portion of the sprinkler head 104. In some examples, the grooves 158 allow for a bayonet connection between the sprinkler head 104 and the second alignment element 118. FIG. 18 shows another example of utilizing internal threads 258 at a second end 246 to attach to a second alignment element 218 of the sprinkler head 104.

Like the first alignment element 116, the second alignment element 118 can be made of a variety of different materials, including (but not limited to) metals (such as aluminum) and plastics (such as Rulon, Derlin or other PTFE-like plastics).

Figures 19 to 21 show a series of schematic diagrams of an example interface of the first alignment element 116 and the second alignment element 118 of the alignment coupling 114 during docking of a sprinkler 104. The protrusion 132 of the first alignment element 116 is shown. The groove 136 of the second alignment element 118 is shown proximate to the protrusion 132 indicated by the dashed arrow. The example shown represents the sprinkler 104 being re-docked to the fixed faucet body 102 having the protrusion 132.

As shown in FIG. 20 , when the wall 148 of the slot 136 interfaces with the protrusion 132, due to the tapered nature of the slot 136, the wall 148 slides along the fixed protrusion 132 in a direction that brings the hole 150 closer to the protrusion 132. Because the second alignment element 118 and therefore the slot 136 are fixed to the sprinkler head 104, when the wall 148 slides on the protrusion 132, the sprinkler head 104 is rotated and moved closer to the alignment position. In some examples, the second alignment element 118 can be fixed to the water pipe 124 and the water pipe 124 is fixed to the sprinkler head 104. Therefore, after the water pipe 124 is rotated by the second alignment element 118, the water pipe 124 rotates the sprinkler head 104.

As shown in FIG. 21 , once the wall 148 has slid along the protrusion 132 to a position where the protrusion 132 becomes positioned within the cavity 150, the spray head 104 is in the aligned position and docked, and thus the alignment coupling 114 is in the fully engaged position. This movement is accomplished automatically due to the shape of the slot 136 and/or the protrusion 132.

As mentioned above, the relationship of the slot 136 and the protrusion 132 can be reversed so that the protrusion 132 is positioned on the second alignment element 118 and the slot 136 is positioned on the first alignment element 116. In this example, the protrusion 132 of the sprinkler head 104 will move within the slot 136 as the sprinkler head 104 is docked and automatically positioned in the cavity 150 of the slot due to the tapered V-shaped configuration. When in the cavity 150, the sprinkler head 104 will be positioned in the aligned position.

FIG. 22 shows a perspective exploded view of the sprinkler 104. As shown, the sprinkler 104 includes a housing 160 and a valve 162 positioned within the housing 160. In some examples, the valve 162 is configured to change the characteristics of water as it is discharged from the sprinkler outlet 112. The user input 110 is configured to control the operation of the valve 162. As shown, the valve 162 includes an attachment portion 166 that includes a plurality of protrusions 168. The attachment portion 166 is configured to connect to the second end 146 of the second alignment element 118. The protrusion 168 is configured to be received in the groove 158 of the second alignment element 118 to allow a bayonet attachment between the sprinkler 104 and the second alignment element 118.

FIGS. 23 and 24 depict a water tube 124 connected to a first end 144 of a second alignment element 118. As shown, the second alignment element 118 is positioned around a portion of the water tube 124. As shown in FIG. 24, the water tube 124 includes a connector 170 connected within a passage 152 of the second alignment element 118. In some examples, the connector 170 mates with the threads 156 of the second alignment element 118.

Figures 25 to 27 show a first alignment element 316 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figures 28 to 29 show a second alignment element 318 configured to interface with the first alignment element 316 to form an alignment coupling. The first alignment element 316 and the second alignment element 318 are configured to have functional properties substantially similar to the first alignment element 116 and the second alignment element 118 summarized above. As described above, the first alignment element 316 and the second alignment element 318 are also composed of materials similar to the first alignment element 116 and the second alignment element 118.

The first alignment element 316 is configured to be positioned within the faucet body 102. The first alignment element 316 includes a pair of inclined surfaces 348 surrounding a channel 319. The channel 319 is configured to receive the water pipe 124. The inclined surface 348 is configured to assist in positioning a protrusion 332 of the second alignment element 318. The inclined surfaces 348 are configured to extend away from an opening 317 of the first alignment element 316 and intersect each other at a hole 350. This configuration allows the protrusion 332 of the second alignment element 318 to interface with the inclined surface 348 and move along the inclined surface 348, and finally automatically position at the hole 350. When the protrusion 332 is positioned in the hole 350, the spray head 104 is in the alignment position.

As seen in FIGS. 28 and 29 , the second alignment element 318 has a tapered outer surface 321 for easy insertion into the opening 317 of the first alignment element 316. As with the second alignment element 118 described above, the second alignment element 318 is configured to be positioned around the water pipe 124. In some embodiments, the second alignment element 318 is positioned adjacent to the sprinkler head 104. In some embodiments, the second alignment element 318 is connected to the sprinkler head 104.

The second alignment element 318 includes a centering element 338 that operates in a manner similar to the centering element 138 described above and assists in positioning the sprinkler head 104 relative to the faucet body 102. As shown, the protrusion 332 extends from the outer surface 321 in a radial direction. In some examples, the protrusion 332 is needle-shaped.

FIG. 30 shows a second alignment element 418 according to another example of the present invention. As described above, the second alignment element 418 is configured to interface with a first alignment element similar to the first alignment element 116. Therefore, the second alignment element 418 is configured to have functional properties substantially similar to the second alignment elements 118, 218, and 318 described above. As described above, the second alignment element 418 is composed of materials similar to the first alignment element 116 and the second alignment element 118.

As with the second alignment elements 118, 218, 318 described above, the second alignment element 418 is configured to be positioned around the water pipe 124, specifically, connected to a water pipe connector 419. In some examples, the second alignment element 418 is positioned adjacent to the sprinkler head 104. In some examples, the second alignment element 418 is connected to the sprinkler head 104.

Continuing with reference to FIG. 30 , the second alignment element 418 is connected to a water pipe joint 419 at a first end 460 and a valve assembly 470 at a second end 462 . FIG. 31 and FIG. 32 show the valve assembly 470 separated from the second alignment element 418 .

In some examples, valve assembly 470 is a portion of a valve positioned within sprinkler 104, similar to valve 162. In some examples, valve assembly 470 allows water to pass from second alignment element 418 and out of sprinkler 104. In some examples, the valve to which valve assembly 470 belongs is configured to change a portion of the characteristics of water when it is discharged from sprinkler outlet 112. In some examples, the valve to which valve assembly 470 belongs is configured not to change a portion of the characteristics of water when it is discharged from sprinkler outlet 112.

The second alignment element 418 is connected to the valve assembly 470 at the second end 462. In some examples, the second end 462 is connected to the valve assembly 470. In some examples, the second end 462 is connected within the valve assembly 470. In some examples, the second alignment element 418 is screwed onto the valve assembly 470. In other examples, the valve assembly includes a protrusion similar to the protrusion 168 described above to allow a bayonet type connection between the second alignment element 418 and the valve assembly 470. In the depicted example, the second end 462 is threaded onto the valve assembly 470 and includes at least one second alignment stop element 472 configured to mate with a sprinkler stop 474 positioned adjacent an attachment portion 466 of the valve assembly 470.

In the depicted example, the second end 462 of the second alignment element 418 includes one or more second alignment stop elements 472. In some examples, the second alignment stop element 472 can be one of a protrusion and a recess. In some examples, the sprinkler stop 474 can be the other of the protrusion and recess of the second alignment stop element 472 from the second alignment element 418.

When mated together, the second alignment stop element 472 and the sprinkler stop 474 prevent incorrect assembly of the second alignment element 418 and the valve assembly 470. Thus, the second alignment stop element 472 and the sprinkler stop 474 ensure consistent assembly of the second alignment element 418 and the valve assembly 470 because the second alignment stop element 472 allows the second alignment element 418 to bottom out in a first direction F1 relative to the valve assembly 470. In some examples, the second alignment stop element 472 and the sprinkler stop 474 rotationally align the second alignment element 418 and the valve assembly 470. In some examples, the valve assembly 470 is connected to the sprinkler 104 in a manner to prevent relative rotation between the valve assembly 470 and the housing 160 of the sprinkler 104. Therefore, if the second alignment element 418 is properly aligned with the valve assembly 470 when the second alignment element 418 interacts with a first alignment element (e.g., the first alignment element 116), the second alignment element 418 always properly aligns the sprinkler 104 with the faucet body 102.

In some embodiments, the second alignment stop element 472 and the sprinkler stop 474 prevent over-tightening of the second alignment element 418 and the valve assembly 470.

FIG. 33 shows an exploded view of the water pipe connector 419, the second alignment element 418, and the valve assembly 470. As shown, the second alignment element 418 includes a seal assembly 475 positioned therein. The seal assembly 475 includes a bracket 476, a shaft ring 477, a first seal 478, a second seal 479, a seal bracket 480, a spring 481, and a spring cage 482.

The seal assembly 475 is configured to assist in sealing a spherical portion 417 of the water pipe connector 419 within the second alignment element 418. The water pipe connector 419 is allowed to move relative to the second alignment element 418. Specifically, the spherical portion 417 of the water pipe connector 419 is configured to form a spherical connection with the second alignment element 418.

In one example, when the second alignment element 418 is connected to the sprinkler 104, the ball connection with the second alignment element 418 facilitates the sprinkler 104 to be easily rotated relative to the water pipe 124. In the depicted example, when the water pressure in the sprinkler 104 increases, the seal assembly 475 increases the sealing force on the water pipe connector 419. When the water pressure decreases, the seal assembly 475 decreases the sealing force on the water pipe connector 419. It is considered within the scope of the present invention that the water pressure in the sprinkler 104 can be manipulated with the use of devices (such as valves, flow restrictors, etc.) within the sprinkler 104. In the depicted example, the sealing force on the water pipe connector 419 increases when water is dispensed from the sprinkler 104 and decreases when water is not dispensed from the sprinkler 104. However, in some examples, the sealing force on the water pipe connector 419 decreases when water is dispensed from the sprinkler 104 and increases when water is not dispensed from the sprinkler 104.

FIG. 34 shows a side view of the second alignment element 418 and the water pipe connector 419 being matched together. FIG. 35 shows a cross-sectional view of the second alignment element 418 and the water pipe connector 419 along line 35-35 in FIG. 34.

The spherical portion 417 of the water pipe joint 419 is positioned in the first end of the second alignment element 418, so that an internal passage 415 of the water pipe joint 419 is connected to an internal passage 483 of the second alignment element 418.

The bracket 476 is configured to be positioned within a main inner cavity 486 of the second alignment element 418. In some examples, the bracket 476 can be threaded into the main inner cavity 486. The bracket 476 is configured to help axially position the first seal 478, the second seal 479, the seal bracket 480, the spring 481, and the spring cage 482 within the main inner cavity 486. In some examples, the bracket 476 includes an inner sealed chamber 491 having a first end 492 and a second end 493. The spring 481 is positioned within the inner sealed chamber 491 between the first end 492 and the second end 493 of the inner sealed chamber 491. In some examples, the spring 481 is positioned between the first end 492 of the inner sealed chamber 491 and the first seal 478. The second seal 479 and the seal holder 480 are positioned adjacent to the second end 493 of the inner seal chamber 491 within the main inner cavity 486.

The shaft ring 477 of the seal assembly 475 surrounds a first end 484 of the spherical portion 417 of the water pipe connector 419. In some embodiments, the shaft ring 477 has a tapered hole 485 to facilitate the insertion of the spherical portion 417 therein. In some embodiments, the shaft ring 477 can be a rubber seal. In some embodiments, the shaft ring 477 can serve as a sleeve between the second alignment element 418 and the water pipe connector 419.

The first seal 478 is positioned around the spherical portion 417 of the water pipe connector 419, adjacent to the seal holder 480 and the shaft ring 477. In some examples, the first seal 478 is positioned in the main inner cavity 486 of the second alignment element 418. In some examples, the main inner cavity 486 accommodates the holder 476, the first seal 478, the second seal 479, the seal holder 480, the spring 481 and the spring cage 482. In some examples, the main inner cavity 486 has a uniform diameter along its length to facilitate the installation of the seal assembly 475 in the second alignment element 418. In some examples, the first seal 478 is a rubber seal.

The second seal 479 is positioned around a second end 487 of the ball portion 417 of the water pipe connector 419. Specifically, the second seal 479 defines a hole 490 that is sized and shaped to receive the second end 487 of the ball portion 417. The second seal 479 is positioned adjacent to the seal holder 480 and the spring cage 482. The second seal 479 is rotationally captured by the seal holder 480 and is configured to be compressed by a force received at a first axial side 488 that is opposite to a second axial side 489 facing the seal holder 480. When the force received at the first axial side 488 fluctuates, the second seal 479 moves along a longitudinal X axis of the seal assembly 475. In some embodiments, when there is no force received at the axial side 488, the second seal 479 does not contact the main inner cavity 486. In some embodiments, due to the spherical configuration of the spherical portion 417 of the water pipe joint 419, when a force is received at the axial side 488, the hole 490 of the second seal 479 moves toward the first end 484 of the spherical portion 417, thereby forming a tighter seal around the spherical portion 417. In some embodiments, the second seal 479 is a rubber seal.

The seal holder 480 is configured to interlock and mate with the second seal 479 to prevent relative rotation between the seal holder 480 and the second seal 479. In some examples, the seal holder 480 has a different material than the second seal 479. In some examples, the seal holder 480 is a rigid material, such as plastic.

As mentioned above, spring 481 is positioned within the interior sealed chamber 491 of the bracket 476. Spring 481 is positioned between the first end 492 of the sealed chamber 491 and the second seal 479. In some examples, spring 481 is also positioned around a dragon portion 494 of spring cage 482 and contacts a flange 495 of spring cage 482. In some examples, spring 481 is configured to apply a predetermined force at the first axial side 488 of the second seal 479. As depicted, spring 481 is a compression spring. The spring 481 can be a variety of different types of springs, such as a coil spring, a wave spring, a conical spring, a disc spring, etc.

The spring cage 482 is configured to be movably positioned within the inner sealing chamber 491. The spring cage 482 includes a dragon portion 494 and a flange 495. In some examples, the seal assembly 475 does not include a spring cage 482. In some examples, the spring cage 482 is formed of a rigid material.

The dragon portion 494 is positioned inside the spring 481 and allows water to flow axially and radially through the dragon portion 494 and freely flow within the sealed chamber 491. In the depicted example, the dragon portion 494 is cylindrical and includes a plurality of slits 497 that allow water to flow radially therethrough. In some examples, only axial flow is allowed through the dragon portion. In some examples, the dragon portion 494 and the flange 495 are separate pieces. In some examples, the dragon portion and the flange 495 are formed from a single piece.

The flange 495 is positioned between the spring 481 and the second seal 479. The flange 495 is generally circular and distributes a force from the sealing chamber 491 to the second seal 479. In some embodiments, the seal assembly 475 includes only the flange 495 and does not include the dragon portion 494. In some embodiments, the flange 495 is a gasket.

Figures 36 and 37 show perspective views of a portion of the seal assembly 475, and Figure 38 shows an exploded view of a portion of the seal assembly 475. As shown, the second seal 479 and the seal holder 480 interlock with each other to prevent relative rotation therebetween. In the depicted example, the seal holder 480 includes a plurality of protrusions 498 received by a plurality of grooves 499 of the second seal 479. It is contemplated within the scope of the present invention that the seal holder 480 and the second seal 479 may interlock with each other in a variety of ways.

FIG. 39 is a schematic diagram of the seal assembly 475. Water is indicated by arrow W. In some examples, water pressure within the seal chamber 491 applies a force to the spring cage 482, thereby applying a force to the second seal 479 via the flange 495. The pressurized water W within the seal chamber 491 applies a force to the second seal 479, thereby causing the second seal 479 to move axially toward the first seal 478. The force applied to the second seal 479 by the pressurized water W is in addition to the predetermined force applied to the second seal 479 by the spring 481. The movement of the second seal 479 toward the first seal 478 tightens the connection of the hole 490 around the second end 487 of the ball portion 417 of the water pipe connector 419, thereby automatically increasing the seal around the water pipe connector 419. As the water pressure in the sealing chamber 491 decreases, the force applied to the second seal 479 decreases, thereby allowing the second seal 479 to move away from the first seal 478, thereby loosening the connection of the hole 490 around the second end 487 of the spherical portion 417 of the water pipe connector 419 and automatically reducing the seal around the water pipe connector 419. In some examples, the minimum force applied to the second seal 479 is the force applied by the spring 481. This will occur when the pressurized water W in the sealing chamber 491 does not apply a force. In some examples, the low-flowing water may only apply a small force in the sealing chamber 491 due to the low water pressure associated with the low-flowing water. The spring 481 ensures that a minimum force is always applied to the second seal 479 so that a minimum seal can be formed around the water pipe connector 419 even in low flow water conditions. In the depicted example, water W enters the sealing chamber 491 through the internal passage 415 of the connector. If the sprinkler 104 is dispensing water, the pressurized water W flows into the sealing chamber 491, increases the seal around the water pipe connector 419, passes through the seal assembly 475 and flows out of the sprinkler 104. If water is not being dispensed from the sprinkler 104, the water W will not pass through the seal assembly 475 and there is a minimum water pressure in the sealing chamber 491.

FIG. 40 shows a faucet 500 including a faucet body 502 and a faucet sprayer 504 detachable from a faucet body outlet 506 of the faucet body 502. The faucet 500, and more specifically the sprayer 504 and the faucet body 502, are substantially similar to the faucet 100, and more specifically the sprayer 104 and the faucet body 102 described above. As shown in FIG. 40, the sprayer 504 is docked with and adjacent to the faucet body 502 in the retracted position. The spray head 504 is removable from the faucet body 502 in the extended position to allow the user to manipulate the spray head 504 during use.

Although faucet 500 may be a pull-down kitchen faucet, the present invention encompasses other types of faucets, including (but not limited to) pull-out faucets. Although the present invention will be discussed with respect to a kitchen faucet for purposes of example, the system described herein may be implemented in any type of pull-down faucet and/or a pull-out faucet, including a side-assisted spray faucet. In some examples, faucet 500 is a shower head in a shower. In some examples, faucet 500 is any fluid dispensing device configured to dispense fluid therefrom.

As mentioned above, the showerhead 504 is detachable such that it can be separated from the faucet body 502 to allow for user-operable alignment of the showerhead 504. In some examples, operation of a user input 510 can facilitate changing a valve positioned within the showerhead 504. The user input 510 can change the characteristics of the discharged water, such as (but not limited to) water volume and/or temperature. In some examples, the user input 510 is one of a button, a touch-sensitive surface, or the like.

When docked with the faucet body 502, the spray head 504 has at least one alignment position. The spray head 504 can have multiple alignment positions. In some examples, the spray head 504 has two alignment positions, about 180 degrees apart from each other around an elongated axis of the spray head 504. An alignment position is a position to which the spray head 504 automatically returns when the spray head 504 is docked with the faucet body 502. The alignment position can be a variety of different positions, which depends on the aesthetics of the faucet 500 and the specific use of the faucet 500. In the depicted example, when in the alignment position, a user input 510 is positioned facing the faucet body 502. In some examples, when in the aligned position, the user input 510 is positioned toward the left side of the faucet body 502, toward the right side of the faucet body 502, or away from the faucet body 502.

Figures 41 to 44 show an example of movement of the sprinkler head 504 when it is guided to an alignment position. This alignment is facilitated by an alignment coupling 514 comprising a first alignment element 516 and a second alignment element 518. The alignment coupling 514 is substantially similar to the alignment coupling described above. In the depicted example, the second alignment element 518 is movable relative to the first alignment element 516.

The first alignment element 516 and the second alignment element 518 can be positioned at a variety of different locations on the faucet 500. In the illustrated example shown, the first alignment element 516 is connected to the faucet body 502 and the second alignment element 518 is connected to the spray head 504. In some examples, the second alignment element 518 is positioned around a water pipe (not shown) of the faucet 500. In other examples, the second alignment element 518 is attached to a water pipe of the faucet 500. In some examples, the first alignment element 516 and the second alignment element 518 are integrally formed in the faucet body 502 and the spray head 504. In some embodiments, the first alignment element 516 and the second alignment element 518 are separate parts from the faucet body 502 and the spray head 504.

The spray head 504 is held adjacent to the faucet body 502 by a retaining coupler 515. In some embodiments, the alignment coupler 514 aligns the spray head 504 and the retaining coupler 515 holds the spray head 504 in the aligned position. In some embodiments, the retaining coupler 515 includes a first retaining element 517 connected to the faucet body 502 and a second retaining element 519 connected to the faucet spray head 504. In some embodiments, the retaining coupler 515 is separate from the alignment coupler 514. In other embodiments, at least one of the first retaining element 517 or the second retaining element 519 is a magnet.

FIG. 45 shows a cross-sectional view of the faucet 500 with the spray head 504 in an aligned position. FIG. 45 also shows a water pipe connector 524 that is movably attached to the spray head 504 and positioned within the faucet body 502. The water pipe connector 524 can be attached to a water pipe that is positioned within the faucet body 502 and can be moved therein.

In the depicted example, the first alignment element 516 is positioned within the faucet body 502 adjacent to the outlet 506. In the depicted example, the first retaining element 517 is positioned within the faucet body 502, and the second alignment element 518 is at least partially positioned within the spray head 504. In the depicted example, the second retaining element 519 is positioned within the spray head 504 adjacent to the second alignment element 518.

The faucet 500 is shown to include a valve 562 in the sprinkler head 504. In some examples, the valve 562 can be connected to and operated by the user input 510.

In the depicted example, the first alignment element 516 includes a ring 531 and a tongue 526, the tongue 526 extending from the ring 531 in an axial direction adjacent to the outlet 506 of the faucet body 502. In some examples, the ring 531 includes a protrusion 532 extending radially inward from the ring 531 within the outlet 506 of the faucet body 502. In the depicted example, the protrusion 532 is positioned at a bottom side of the first alignment element 516; however, it is contemplated that the protrusion 532 may be positioned in a variety of locations within the scope of the present invention.

The first retaining element 517 is positioned adjacent to the outlet 506 of the faucet body 502. In some embodiments, the first retaining element 517 includes a protrusion 507 that mates with a corresponding groove 509 on the faucet body 502 to reduce relative movement between the faucet body 502 and the first retaining element 517. Within the scope of the present invention, it is considered that the first retaining element 517 may have a groove that can mate with a protrusion of the faucet body 502. In some embodiments, the first retaining element 517 is fixed to the faucet body 502 by a fastener (such as (but not limited to) at least one screw, bolt, adhesive and/or the like).

Still referring to FIG. 45 , a second alignment element 518 is shown threaded into the sprinkler head 504. In the depicted example, the second alignment element 518 is positioned around the water pipe connector 524. The second alignment element 518 includes an alignment feature, which includes a groove 536 positioned at the periphery of the second alignment element 518. The groove 536 is configured to interface with the protrusion 532 of the first alignment element 516 to guide the sprinkler head 504 to the alignment position. In some examples, the second alignment element 518 has a plurality of grooves 536, each groove being configured to interface with the protrusion 532 of the first alignment element 516 to guide the sprinkler head 504 to a plurality of alignment positions.

The second retaining element 519 is positioned in the showerhead 504 and is partially secured within the showerhead 504 by the second alignment element 518. In the depicted example, the second retaining element 519 is positioned within the showerhead 504 by a flange 525. As shown, when the faucet body 502 and the faucet showerhead 504 are adjacent to each other, the flange 525 is positioned between the first retaining element 517 and the second retaining element 519. The flange 525 can be a variety of shapes (e.g., thickness) to accommodate variations in the size, strength, and position of the first retaining element 517 and the second retaining element 519. In some examples, when the faucet body 502 and the faucet spray head 504 are adjacent to each other, the second retaining element 519 is partially positioned in the first retaining element 517 in the faucet body 502. In the present invention, it can be considered that the first retaining element 517 and the second retaining element 519 can be positioned in a variety of different ways to keep the faucet body 502 and the faucet spray head 504 adjacent to each other.

In the depicted example, the second retaining element 519 is a magnet. In some examples, the magnet is a neodymium magnet. In some examples, the second retaining element 519 is coated with a coating, such as an epoxy. In some examples, the coating provides at least some corrosion resistance to the second retaining element 519. In some examples, the second retaining element 519 is partially held in place in the spray head 504 by a fastener, such as (but not limited to) at least one screw, bolt, adhesive, and/or the like. In some examples, the second retaining element 519 is cured into the spray head 504 by the epoxy. In some examples, the second retaining element 519 is not a complete ring. In some embodiments, the second retaining element 519 includes multiple pieces. It is contemplated that the second retaining element 519 may be of a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials within the scope of the present invention.

The second retaining element 519 and the first retaining element 517 attract each other to hold the spray head 504. The second retaining element 519 is at least partially positioned between the second alignment element 518 and a positioning ring 521. In some examples, a buffer 523 is positioned between the second retaining element 519 and the positioning ring 521, so that the buffer 523 at least partially prevents hard contact between the second alignment element 518 and the positioning ring 521. In some examples, the second retaining element 519 is a frangible magnet and the buffer 523 reduces the hard contact between the second retaining element 519 and the positioning ring 521. The buffer 523 can be made of various materials (such as (but not limited to) a rubber, a foam tape or other similar materials).

In some examples, the locating ring 521 is configured to at least partially locate the second retaining element 519 within the sprinkler head 504. In some examples, the locating ring 521 has an integral buffer configured to interface with the second retaining element 519. In some examples, the locating ring 521 is threaded into the sprinkler head 504. In some examples, the locating ring 521 is metal. In some examples, the locating ring 521 is a plastic material.

FIG. 46 shows a first alignment element 516 and a first retaining element 517 positioned within the faucet body 502. In some examples, at least one of the first alignment element 516 or the first retaining element 517 is at least partially positioned between the outlet 506 and a vertex of a neck 508.

In some examples, the first retaining element 517 is fixed within the outlet 506 of the faucet body 502. The first retaining element 517 can be integral with the faucet body 502. In some examples, the first retaining element 517 is integral with the first alignment element 516. In other examples, the first retaining element 517 is fixed to the faucet body 502 by a press fit. In other examples, the first retaining element 517 is fixed to the faucet body 502 by brazing, welding, or the like. In some examples, the first retaining element 517 at least partially fixes the first alignment element 516 in the faucet body 502. As shown in the depicted example, the first alignment element 516 is positioned within and engaged with the first retaining element 517. In some embodiments, the first retaining element 517 is attached to a metal ring in the faucet body 502. In some embodiments, the first retaining element 517 is welded to a stainless steel ring in the faucet body 502. In some embodiments, the first retaining element 517 is welded to a 2205 magnetic grade stainless steel ring in the faucet body 502. In some embodiments, the first retaining element 517 is an insert that is not a complete ring. In some embodiments, the first retaining element 517 includes multiple pieces. It is contemplated that the first retaining element 517 may be of a variety of different shapes, sizes, and materials within the scope of the present invention.

In some embodiments, the first alignment element 516 is at least partially formed of plastic. In some embodiments, the first alignment element 516 is at least partially clamped behind the first retaining element 517 within the outlet 506.

FIG. 47 shows the second alignment element 518 mounted to the sprinkler 504. FIG. 48 shows the second alignment element 518, the second retaining element 519, the buffer 523, and the positioning ring 521 spaced apart from the sprinkler 504. In some embodiments, the second alignment element 518 is fixed to the sprinkler 504 to prevent relative movement therebetween. In some embodiments, the second alignment element 518 is mounted adjacent to the sprinkler 504. In some embodiments, the second alignment element 518 is positioned around the end of the water pipe connector 524. In some embodiments, the sprinkler 504 includes a cover 522.

The flange 525 attached to the second alignment element 518 in the depicted example helps secure the second retention element 519 within the sprinkler head 504. In some examples, the flange 525 is separate from the second alignment element 518. In some examples, the flange 525 acts as a buffer between the first retention element 517 and the second retention element 519.

FIG. 49 shows a perspective view of the first alignment element 516. As shown, the first alignment element 516 includes a ring 531 with a protrusion 532 extending radially inward from the ring 531. The first alignment element 516 also includes a tongue 526 having an inclined portion 542 extending generally in an axial direction away from the ring 531. The tongue 526 is configured to at least partially guide a water pipe attached to the sprinkler 504. In some examples, the first alignment element 516 includes an auxiliary alignment protrusion 533 extending radially inward from the ring 531 to assist in aligning the sprinkler 504. In a further example, the first alignment element 516 includes at least one fastener 535 that positions the first alignment element 516 behind the first retaining element 517 within the faucet body 502. In the depicted example, the fastener 535 is a pair of clamps.

FIG. 50 shows a perspective view of the second alignment element 518. The second alignment element 518 is generally cylindrical. As mentioned above, the second alignment element 518 is substantially similar to the alignment element described above. The second alignment element 518 includes an alignment feature including at least one tapered groove 536 positioned at the periphery of the second alignment element 518. In some examples, the second alignment element 518 includes a pair of grooves 536 on opposite sides (i.e., separated by approximately 180 degrees) at the periphery of the second alignment element 518. Depending on the desired number and location of alignment locations, it is contemplated that various different numbers of grooves separated by various different separators may be used within the scope of the present invention.

The groove 536 is v-shaped and is configured to interface and contact with the protrusion 532 of the first alignment element 516 to move the spray head 504 toward a narrower portion of the groove 536, so that the spray head 504 moves to the alignment position during the docking. When the spray head 504 is decoupled and spaced apart from the faucet body 502, the groove 536 and the protrusion 532 do not contact each other. The groove 536 has walls 537 extending toward each other in a generally axial direction of the guide protrusion 532. In some examples, the second alignment element 518 includes a thread 539 that mates with the spray head 504. In some examples, the flange 525 is positioned on the second alignment element 518 between the groove 536 and the thread 539.

FIG. 51 shows another perspective view of the second alignment element 518. The second alignment element 518 includes a first end 544 and a second end 546. The first end 544 is configured to interface with the first alignment element 516 and the second end 546 is configured to mate with a portion of the faucet spray head 504. The second end 546 is shown to include at least one alignment stop 548 configured to mate with a corresponding one of the spray head alignment stops 550 of the faucet spray head 504, as shown in FIG. 52. The operation of the alignment stops 548, 550 is substantially similar to the alignment elements described above. The alignment stops 548, 550 facilitate the proper assembly of the second alignment element 518 and the sprinkler head 504 and the alignment stops 548, 550 further facilitate reducing the chance of the second alignment element 518 being removed (e.g., disassembled) from the sprinkler head 504.

The alignment stop 548 and the sprinkler alignment stop 550 include at least one protrusion. In some examples, as shown in FIG. 51 , the alignment stop 548 can be one of a protrusion and a groove. In the depicted example, the second end 546 of the second alignment element 518 includes more than one alignment stop. In some examples, the sprinkler alignment stop 550 can be the other of the protrusion and the groove from the alignment stop 548 of the second alignment element 518.

The alignment stop 548 includes a spring-loaded negative carrier 552 and a rotational stop 554 configured to reduce relative axial rotation of the second alignment element 518 in a first direction F1 and an opposite second direction F2 between the second alignment element 518 and the faucet spray head 504. When mated together, the spring-loaded negative carrier 552 bends over the spray head alignment stop 550 and the rotational stop 554 engages opposite sides of the spray head alignment stop 550 to reduce relative rotation between the spray head 504 and the second alignment element 518. Thus, when the second alignment element 518 is properly aligned with the sprinkler head 504, the second alignment element 518 works with the first alignment element 516 to consistently properly align the sprinkler head 504 with the faucet body 502.

Examples of the present invention are reflected in the following list of examples and the scope of the patent applications contained herein.

In Example 1, a faucet includes a faucet body, the faucet body includes a first alignment element positioned at an outlet in the faucet body and a faucet spray head positioned at the outlet of the faucet body. The faucet spray head includes a second alignment element, the faucet spray head has an alignment position and a plurality of misaligned positions relative to the faucet body. The first alignment element and the second alignment element form an alignment coupling, the alignment coupling includes a protrusion and a tapered slot, at least one of which is movable relative to the other, and wherein the faucet spray head is in the alignment position when the protrusion is positioned at a narrowest portion of the tapered slot.

In Example 2, the faucet of Example 1 is modified wherein the protrusion is configured to interface with the wall of the tapered groove to align the faucet spray head.

In Example 3, the faucet of Example 1 is modified, wherein the first alignment element includes a ring and a tongue extending from the ring in an axial direction, wherein the ring includes the protrusion extending radially inward from the ring in the outlet of the faucet body.

In Example 4, the faucet of Example 1 is modified, and the first alignment element includes a tongue surface, wherein the tongue surface extends from the outlet of the faucet body within the faucet body, and wherein the tongue surface protrudes above a lower surface of the faucet body.

In Example 5, the faucet of Example 1 is modified, wherein the second alignment element is generally cylindrical, and the tapered groove has walls extending toward each other in a generally axial direction on an outer surface of the second alignment element to form a V-shaped groove.

In Example 6, the faucet of Example 1 is modified, wherein the alignment coupling includes at least one centering element, wherein the at least one centering element is configured to center the faucet spray head within the outlet of the faucet body.

In Example 7, the faucet of Example 1 is modified, wherein the at least one centering element is a plurality of centering elements positioned at a periphery of the second alignment element.

In Example 8, the faucet of Example 1 is modified, wherein the faucet body includes a curved neck, the curved neck includes the outlet, wherein a curved side profile is generated when the faucet spray head is in the aligned position, and wherein the curved side profile is interrupted when the faucet spray head is in the plurality of misaligned positions.

In Example 9, the faucet of Example 1 is modified, wherein the alignment coupling is coupled when the first alignment element and the second alignment element are in contact with each other, and wherein the alignment coupling is decoupled when the first alignment element and the second alignment element are not in contact with each other, wherein when decoupled, the faucet spray head is spaced apart from the outlet of the faucet body.

In Example 10, the faucet of Example 1 is modified to further include a water pipe connected to the faucet spray head, wherein the second alignment element is fixed around the water pipe, wherein the water pipe includes a pull-back feature connected thereto, and wherein the pull-back feature pulls the faucet spray head toward the outlet of the faucet body.

In Example 11, the faucet of Example 10 is modified, wherein the pull-back feature is a weight attached to the water pipe.

In Example 12, the faucet of Example 1 is modified, wherein the alignment coupling is integrated with the faucet body and the faucet spray head.

In Example 13, the faucet of Example 1 is modified, wherein the alignment coupling is mounted to the faucet body and the faucet spray head.

In Example 14, a faucet includes: a faucet body; a faucet spray head that is movable relative to the faucet body; a first alignment element mounted in the faucet body, the first alignment element having a first alignment feature, the first alignment feature including one of a protrusion and a tapered groove; and a second alignment element mounted to the faucet spray head, the second alignment element having a second alignment feature, the second alignment feature including the other of the protrusion and the tapered groove. The protrusion is configured to interface with a wall of the tapered groove to align the faucet spray head.

In Example 15, the faucet of Example 14 is modified, wherein the first alignment element includes a ring and a tongue, the tongue extending from the ring in an axial direction, wherein the ring includes the protrusion extending radially inwardly from the ring.

In Example 16, the faucet of Example 14 is modified, and the first alignment element includes a tongue surface, wherein the tongue surface extends from the outlet of the faucet body within the faucet body, and wherein the tongue surface protrudes above a lower surface of the faucet body.

In Example 17, the faucet of Example 14 is modified, wherein the second alignment element is generally cylindrical, and the tapered groove has walls extending toward each other in a generally axial direction on an outer surface of the second alignment element to form a V-shaped groove.

In Example 18, the faucet of Example 14 is modified, wherein the second alignment element includes a plurality of centering elements, wherein the plurality of centering elements are configured to center the faucet spray head within the outlet of the faucet body, and wherein the plurality of centering elements are positioned at a periphery of the second alignment element.

In Example 19, an alignment coupling for a faucet includes: a first alignment element positionable in a faucet body, the first alignment element having a first alignment feature including one of a protrusion and a tapered groove; and a second alignment element movable relative to the first alignment element, the second alignment element having a second alignment feature including the other of the protrusion and the tapered groove. The tapered groove includes walls extending toward each other, and the walls guide the protrusion to a narrowest portion of the tapered groove.

In Example 20, the alignment coupling of Example 19 is modified, wherein the first alignment element includes a ring and a tongue extending from the ring in an axial direction, wherein the ring includes the protrusion extending radially inwardly therefrom.

In Example 21, the alignment coupling of Example 20 is modified, wherein the first alignment element includes a faucet body alignment portion that is at least one of a protrusion and a groove, wherein the faucet body alignment portion engages with a corresponding protrusion and groove of the faucet body to align the first alignment element within the faucet body.

In Example 22, the alignment coupling of Example 19 is modified, wherein the first alignment element can be positioned at an outlet of the faucet body.

In Example 23, the alignment coupling of Example 19 is modified, wherein the second alignment element is generally cylindrical, and the tapered groove has walls extending toward each other in a generally axial direction on an outer surface of the second alignment element to form a v-shaped groove.

In Example 24, the alignment coupling of Example 19 is modified, wherein the second alignment element can be positioned adjacent to the sprinkler head.

In Example 25, the alignment coupling of Example 19 is modified, wherein the second alignment element is connected to the sprinkler head.

In Example 26, the alignment coupling of Example 25 is modified, wherein the second alignment element is generally cylindrical and includes a first section and a second end. The first end is configured to interface with the first alignment element and the second end is configured to mate with a portion of the sprinkler. The second end has at least one alignment stop configured to mate with a sprinkler alignment stop of the sprinkler to prevent rotation in a first direction between the sprinkler and the second alignment element, and the at least one alignment stop and the sprinkler alignment stop include at least one protrusion.

In Example 27, the alignment coupling of Example 26 is modified, wherein when the at least one alignment stop and the sprinkler alignment stop are mated with each other, and when the protrusion of the first alignment feature is positioned within the narrowest portion of the conical groove, the sprinkler and the faucet body are in an alignment position, wherein the faucet body includes a curved neck, and wherein when the sprinkler and the faucet body are in the alignment position, a curved side profile is generated.

In Example 28, the alignment coupling of Example 26 is modified, wherein the sprinkler head includes a valve assembly having an attachment portion configured to connect to the second end of the second alignment element, wherein the sprinkler head alignment stop is positioned adjacent to the attachment portion.

In Example 29, the alignment coupling of Example 28 is modified wherein the attachment portion includes threads thereon configured to be received within the second end of the second alignment element to allow a threaded attachment between the sprinkler head and the second alignment element.

In Example 30, the alignment coupling of Example 26 is modified, wherein the sprinkler alignment stop is disposed on a valve assembly of a valve of the sprinkler, wherein the valve is controlled via a user input positioned on the sprinkler.

In Example 31, a fluid distribution device includes: a body; a sprinkler head that is movable relative to the body; a water pipe that is positioned in the body and connected to the sprinkler head at a joint, the joint having a spherical portion positioned in the sprinkler head; and a sealing assembly that is positioned in the sprinkler head and at least partially positioned around the spherical portion of the joint. The seal assembly includes: a bracket defining an inner seal chamber having a first end and a second end; a first seal positioned around the spherical portion of the joint; a second seal having an opening positioned around the spherical portion of the joint; a seal bracket positioned between the first seal and the second seal, the seal bracket and the second seal interlocking to reduce relative rotation between the second seal and the seal bracket; and a spring positioned within the inner seal chamber, wherein the spring is positioned between the first end of the seal chamber and the second seal.

In Example 32, the fluid distribution device of Example 31 is modified to further include: a spring cage positioned in the inner sealed chamber, the spring cage having a second sealing flange and a fluid portion, wherein the second sealing flange contacts the second seal and the spring, and the fluid portion is surrounded by the spring, wherein the fluid portion has a perforated structure.

In Example 33, the fluid distribution device of Example 32 is modified, wherein the fluid portion of the spring cage is cylindrical.

In Example 34, the fluid dispensing device of Example 31 is modified, wherein the seal holder and the second seal are interlocked using a plurality of protrusions and grooves.

In Example 35, the fluid distribution device of Example 31 is modified, wherein the holder, the first seal, the second seal and the seal holder are positioned in a main body groove of the spray head.

In Example 36, the fluid dispensing device of Example 31 is modified, wherein the first seal, the second seal, and the seal holder are not positioned in the inner sealing chamber.

In Example 37, the fluid distribution device of Example 31 is modified, wherein the second seal can be compressed around one end of the spherical portion of the joint.

In Example 38, the fluid distribution device of Example 37 is modified, wherein the second seal is compressible at one side facing the inner sealed chamber.

In Example 39, the fluid distribution device of Example 37 is modified, wherein the second seal can be compressed by water pressure.

In Example 40, a fluid distribution device includes: a body; a sprinkler head that is movable relative to the body; a water pipe that is positioned in the body and connected to the sprinkler head at a joint, the joint having a spherical portion positioned in the sprinkler head; and a seal assembly that is positioned in the sprinkler head and at least partially positioned around the spherical portion of the joint, wherein when the sprinkler head dispenses water, the seal assembly automatically increases a sealing force around the joint.

In Example 41, the fluid dispensing device of Example 40 is further modified, wherein the seal assembly includes: a bracket defining an inner seal chamber having a first end and a second end; a first seal positioned around the spherical portion of the joint; a second seal having an opening positioned around the spherical portion of the joint; a seal bracket positioned between the first seal and the second seal, the seal bracket and the second seal interlocking to reduce relative rotation between the second seal and the seal bracket; and a spring positioned within the inner seal chamber, wherein the spring is positioned between the first end of the inner seal chamber and the second seal.

In Example 42, a method of operating a fluid dispensing device includes: providing a body and a sprinkler that is movable relative to the body; providing a water pipe positioned in the body and connected to a joint of the sprinkler, the joint having a spherical portion positioned in the sprinkler; providing a seal assembly positioned in the sprinkler and at least partially surrounding the spherical portion of the joint; when the sprinkler dispenses water, using the seal assembly to automatically increase a sealing force around the joint; and when the sprinkler does not dispense water, using the seal assembly to automatically reduce a sealing force around the joint.

In Example 43, a faucet includes a faucet body and a faucet spray head, and the faucet spray head can move from a retracted position adjacent to the faucet body and an extended position away from the faucet body. In the retracted position, the faucet spray head has a position aligned with the faucet body. The faucet includes an alignment coupling. The alignment coupling includes a first alignment element connected to the faucet body; and a second alignment element connected to the faucet spray head. The alignment coupling includes a protrusion and a tapered groove. At least one of the protrusion or the tapered slot is movable relative to the other, and the tapered slot guides the protrusion to a narrow portion of the tapered slot to guide the faucet spray head to the alignment position. The faucet includes a retaining coupling configured to hold the faucet body and the faucet spray head in close proximity to each other. The retaining coupling includes a first retaining element connected to the faucet body and a second retaining element connected to the faucet spray head. The retaining coupling is separate from the alignment coupling, and at least one of the first retaining element or the second retaining element is a magnet.

In Example 44, the faucet of Example 43 is modified, wherein the second alignment element at least partially fixes the second retaining element in the faucet spray head.

In Example 45, the faucet of Example 43 is modified, wherein the first retaining element at least partially fixes the first alignment element in the faucet body.

In Example 46, the faucet of Example 43 is modified, wherein the second retaining element in the faucet spray head is a magnet.

In Example 47, the faucet of Example 43 is modified, wherein the first alignment element includes a ring and a tongue extending from the ring in an axial direction, at least partially extending from an outlet of the faucet body into the faucet body, wherein the ring includes the protrusion extending radially inward from the ring in the outlet of the faucet body, wherein the second alignment element is generally cylindrical, and wherein the tapered groove has walls extending toward each other in a generally axial direction on an outer surface of the second alignment element to form a v-shaped groove.

In Example 48, the faucet of Example 43 is modified, wherein the first retaining element is welded to a stainless steel ring in the faucet body.

In Example 49, the faucet of Example 43 is modified, wherein the magnet is a coated neodymium magnet.

In Example 50, the faucet of Example 48 is modified wherein the magnet is held in position in the faucet spray head by epoxy.

In Example 51, the faucet of Example 48 is modified, wherein the magnet is at least partially positioned between the second alignment element and a buffer.

In Example 52, the faucet of Example 43 is modified, wherein the magnet is at least partially positioned within the faucet spray head between the second alignment element and a positioning ring.

In Example 53, the faucet of Example 52 is modified to further include a buffer positioned between the magnet and the positioning ring.

In Example 54, the faucet of Example 43 is modified, wherein the alignment coupling is coupled when the first alignment element and the second alignment element are in contact with each other, and wherein the alignment coupling is decoupled when the first alignment element and the second alignment element are not in contact with each other, wherein when decoupled, the faucet spray head is spaced apart from one of the outlets of the faucet body.

In Example 55, the faucet of Example 43 is modified to further include a water pipe connected to the faucet spray head, wherein the second alignment element and the second retaining element are positioned around the water pipe.

In Example 56, the faucet of Example 43 is modified, wherein the second alignment element is generally cylindrical and includes a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is configured to interface with the first alignment element and the second end is configured to mate with a portion of the faucet spray head, the second end has at least one alignment stop, the alignment stops are configured to mate with a spray head alignment stop of the faucet spray head to reduce rotation in a first direction between the faucet spray head and the second alignment element, and wherein the at least one alignment stop and the spray head alignment stop include at least one protrusion.

In Example 57, the faucet of Example 56 is modified, wherein the at least one alignment stop includes a spring-loaded negative carrier configured to contact the spray head alignment stop.

In Example 58, the faucet of Example 57 is modified, wherein the at least one alignment stop includes a rotation stop, wherein the spring negative carrier and the rotation stop are configured to reduce relative rotation between the second alignment element and the faucet spray head in the first direction and a second direction.

In Example 59, the faucet of Example 43 is modified, wherein the faucet spray head has a plurality of misaligned positions relative to the faucet body.

In Example 60, the faucet of Example 43 is modified, wherein the first alignment element is at least partially positioned between an outlet of the faucet body and a vertex of an arc-shaped neck of the faucet body.

In Example 61, the faucet of Example 43 is modified, wherein the first retaining element is positioned adjacent to an outlet of the faucet body.

In Example 62, a faucet includes a faucet body having an outlet and a hose positioned within the faucet body and passing through the outlet. The hose is movable within the faucet body. The faucet includes a faucet spray head connected to the hose and movable between an extended position and a retracted position. When in the extended position, the spray head is spaced apart from the outlet of the faucet body, and when in the retracted position, the spray head is positioned adjacent to the outlet. The faucet includes an alignment coupling, the alignment coupling including a first alignment element connected to the faucet body; and a second alignment element connected to the faucet spray head. The alignment coupling aligns the faucet spray head with the faucet body. The faucet includes a retaining coupling configured to hold the faucet body and the faucet spray head in close proximity to each other. The retaining coupling includes a first retaining element connected to the faucet body adjacent to the first alignment element; and a second retaining element at least partially positioned in the faucet spray head by the second alignment element. At least one of the first retaining element or the second retaining element is a magnet.

In Example 62, the faucet of Example 61 is modified, wherein the second alignment element is generally cylindrical and includes a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is configured to interface with the first alignment element and the second end is configured to mate with a portion of the faucet spray head, the second end has at least one alignment stop, the alignment stops are configured to mate with a spray head alignment stop of the faucet spray head, wherein the at least one alignment stop and the spray head alignment stop include at least one protrusion, and wherein the at least one alignment stop includes a spring negative carrier and a rotation stop, the spring negative carrier and the rotation stop are configured to reduce relative rotation between the second alignment element and the faucet spray head in a first direction and a second direction.

In Example 63, a faucet includes a faucet body and a faucet spray head, which is positionable at an outlet of the faucet body and separable from an outlet of the faucet body. The faucet spray head has a position aligned with the faucet body. The faucet includes a retaining coupling, which is configured to keep the faucet body and the faucet spray head adjacent to each other. The retaining coupling includes a first retaining element, which is connected to the outlet of the faucet body. The first retaining element includes a fixing feature, which is configured to help reduce relative movement between the first retaining element and the outlet. The retaining coupling includes a second retaining element positioned in the faucet spray head by a flange. When the faucet body and the faucet spray head are adjacent to each other, the flange is positioned between the first retaining element and the second retaining element. At least one of the first retaining element or the second retaining element is a magnet.

In Example 64, the faucet of Example 63 is modified to further include an alignment coupling, the alignment coupling comprising: a first alignment element connected to the faucet body; and a second alignment element connected to the faucet spray head; wherein the alignment coupling comprises a protrusion and a tapered groove, wherein at least one of the protrusion or the tapered groove is movable relative to the other, and wherein the tapered groove guides the protrusion to a narrow portion of the tapered groove to guide the faucet spray head to the alignment position.

The various embodiments described above are provided for illustration only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims attached thereto. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that various modifications and changes may be made without following the example embodiments and applications depicted and described herein and without departing from the true spirit and scope of the claims below.

100: faucet

102: Faucet body

103: Outer contour

104: Faucet spray head

105: Outer contour

106: Faucet body outlet

110: User input

112: Sprinkler outlet

116: First alignment element

118: Second alignment element

122: Path

Claims (22)

A faucet, comprising: a faucet body having an outlet; a faucet spray head, which can move from a retracted position adjacent to the faucet body and an extended position away from the faucet body, wherein in the retracted position, the faucet spray head has at least one position aligned with the faucet body; an alignment coupling, which includes: a first alignment element, which is connected to to the faucet body, wherein the first alignment element comprises a ring and a tongue extending from the ring in an axial direction and at least partially extending from the outlet of the faucet body into the faucet body, wherein the ring comprises a protrusion extending radially inwardly from the ring in the outlet of the faucet body; and a second alignment element connected to the faucet spray head; wherein the alignment coupling The coupling comprises a tapered groove positioned on the second alignment element, wherein the protrusion extends away from an inner wall of the faucet body, wherein at least one of the protrusion or the tapered groove is movable relative to the other, and wherein the tapered groove guides the protrusion to a narrow portion of the tapered groove to guide the faucet spray head to the at least one alignment position; and a retaining coupling configured to The faucet body and the faucet spray head are kept in close proximity to each other, and the retaining coupling comprises: a first retaining element positioned around the ring of the first alignment element; and a second retaining element positioned in the faucet spray head; wherein the retaining coupling is separated from the alignment coupling, and wherein at least one of the first retaining element or the second retaining element is a magnet. A faucet as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second alignment element at least partially secures the second retaining element in the faucet spray head. A faucet as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first retaining element at least partially fixes the first alignment element in the faucet body. A faucet as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second retaining element in the faucet spray head is a magnet. A faucet as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second alignment element is cylindrical, and wherein the conical groove has walls extending toward each other in an axial direction on an outer surface of the second alignment element to form a V-shaped groove. A faucet as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first retaining element is a stainless steel ring welded to the faucet body. A faucet as claimed in claim 1, wherein the magnet is a coated neodymium magnet. A faucet as claimed in claim 7, wherein the magnet is held in position in the faucet spray head by epoxy. A faucet as claimed in claim 7, wherein the magnet is at least partially positioned between the second alignment element and a buffer. A faucet as claimed in claim 1, wherein the magnet is at least partially positioned within the faucet spray head between the second alignment element and a positioning ring. In the faucet of claim 10, a buffer is positioned between the magnet and the positioning ring. A faucet as claimed in claim 1, wherein the alignment coupling is coupled when the first alignment element and the second alignment element are in contact with each other, and wherein the alignment coupling is decoupled when the first alignment element and the second alignment element are not in contact with each other, wherein when decoupled, the faucet spray head is spaced apart from the outlet of the faucet body. The faucet as claimed in claim 1 further comprises a water pipe connected to the faucet spray head, wherein the second alignment element and the second retaining element are positioned around the water pipe. A faucet as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second alignment element is cylindrical and includes a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is configured to interface with the first alignment element and the second end is configured to mate with a portion of the faucet spray head, the second end has at least one alignment stop, the alignment stops are configured to mate with a spray head alignment stop of the faucet spray head to reduce rotation in a first direction between the faucet spray head and the second alignment element, and wherein the at least one alignment stop and the spray head alignment stop include at least one second protrusion. A faucet as claimed in claim 14, wherein the at least one alignment stop comprises a spring-loaded negative carrier configured to contact the spray head alignment stop. A faucet as claimed in claim 15, wherein the at least one alignment stop includes a rotation stop, wherein the spring negative carrier and the rotation stop are configured to reduce relative rotation between the second alignment element and the faucet spray head in the first direction and a second direction. A faucet as claimed in claim 1, wherein the faucet spray head has a plurality of misaligned positions relative to the faucet body. A faucet as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first alignment element is at least partially positioned between the outlet of the faucet body and a vertex of an arc-shaped neck of the faucet body. A faucet as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first retaining element is positioned adjacent to the outlet of the faucet body. A faucet as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second retaining element is at least partially retained in the faucet spray head by the second alignment element. A faucet, comprising: a faucet body having an outlet; a hose positioned within the faucet body and passing through the outlet, wherein the hose is movable within the faucet body; a faucet spray head connected to the hose and movable between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein, when in the extended position, the faucet spray head is spaced from the outlet of the faucet body, and wherein, when in the retracted position, the faucet spray head is positioned adjacent to the outlet; an alignment coupling, comprising: a first alignment element connected to the faucet body, wherein the first alignment element comprises a ring positioned adjacent to the outlet of ... wherein the ring includes a protrusion extending radially inwardly from the outlet of the faucet body; and a second alignment element connected to the faucet spray head, wherein the second alignment element includes a conical groove; wherein the alignment coupling aligns the faucet spray head with the faucet body; and a retaining coupling configured to hold the faucet body and the faucet spray head in close proximity to each other, the retaining coupling including: a first retaining element positioned around the ring of the first alignment element; and a second retaining element at least partially retained in the faucet spray head by the second alignment element; wherein at least one of the first retaining element or the second retaining element is a magnet. A faucet as claimed in claim 21, wherein the second alignment element is cylindrical and includes a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is configured to interface with the first alignment element and the second end is configured to mate with a portion of the faucet spray head, and the second end has at least one alignment stop, wherein the alignment stops are configured to mate with a spray head alignment stop of the faucet spray head, wherein the at least one alignment stop and the spray head alignment stop include at least one protrusion, and wherein the at least one alignment stop includes a spring negative carrier and a rotation stop, wherein the spring negative carrier and the rotation stop are configured to reduce relative rotation between the second alignment element and the faucet spray head in a first direction and a second direction.