U.S. patent application number 10/637801 was filed with the patent office on 2004-07-08 for lavatory system.
This patent application is currently assigned to Bradley Fixtures Corporation. Invention is credited to Loberger, John M., Renner, Jason M..
Application Number | 20040128755 10/637801 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34193573 |
Filed Date | 2004-07-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040128755 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Loberger, John M. ; et
al. |
July 8, 2004 |
Lavatory system
Abstract
A lavatory system configured to provide hand washing access to a
user is disclosed. The lavatory system comprises a first station
and a second station, plumbing, and a first cover and a second
cover configured to inhibit access to at least a portion of the
plumbing. The first cover and the second cover each having a first
portion and a second portion that are removable. The first cover is
mountable at the first station and the second cover is mountable at
the second station. The first portion is removed on the first cover
to provide a first recess and the second portion is removed on the
second cover to provide a second recess so that the first recess
and the second recess are configured to receive a portion of the
plumbing. A method of assembling a lavatory system is also
disclosed. The method comprises removing a first portion from a
first cover to provide a first recess and mounting the first cover
at a first station so that the first recess receives at least a
portion of the plumbing, and removing a second portion from a
second panel to provide a second recess and mounting the second
cover at the second station so that the second recess receives at
least a portion of the plumbing.
Inventors: |
Loberger, John M.;
(Germantown, WI) ; Renner, Jason M.; (Milwaukee,
WI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FOLEY & LARDNER
777 EAST WISCONSIN AVENUE
SUITE 3800
MILWAUKEE
WI
53202-5308
US
|
Assignee: |
Bradley Fixtures
Corporation
|
Family ID: |
34193573 |
Appl. No.: |
10/637801 |
Filed: |
August 8, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10637801 |
Aug 8, 2003 |
|
|
|
10116335 |
Apr 4, 2002 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
4/642 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E03C 1/322 20130101;
E03C 2001/321 20130101; E03C 1/14 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
004/642 |
International
Class: |
E03C 001/01 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A lavatory system configured to provide hand washing access to a
user comprising: a deck providing a first station and a second
station; plumbing in communication with the first station and the
second station; a first cover and a second cover configured to
inhibit access to at least a portion of the plumbing, the first
cover and the second cover each having a first portion and a second
portion that are removable; wherein the first cover is mountable at
the first station and the second cover is mountable at the second
station; wherein the first portion is removed on the first cover to
provide a first recess and the second portion is removed on the
second cover to provide a second recess so that the first recess
and the second recess are configured to receive a portion of the
plumbing.
2. The system of claim 1 wherein the first portion is defined by a
first groove and the second portion is defined by a second
groove.
3. The system of claim 2 wherein the first groove and the second
groove are disposed on an inside surface of the first cover and the
second cover.
4. The system of claim 1 further comprising a third station and a
third cover mountable at the third station and including a first
portion and a second portion that are selectively removable to
provide a first recess and a second recess to receive at least a
portion of the plumbing.
5. The system of claim 1 wherein the first cover is substantially
identical to the second cover before the first portion or the
second portion is removed.
6. The system of claim 1 further comprising a third cover
configured to inhibit access to the plumbing extending between the
first recess of the first cover and the second recess of the second
cover.
7. An enclosure system for a lavatory system having plumbing and a
deck, the system comprising: a first cover configured to inhibit
access to at least a portion of the plumbing and having a first
portion and a second portion that are selectively removable; a
second cover configured to inhibit access to at least a portion of
the plumbing and having a first portion and a second portion that
are selectively removable; wherein the first portion of the first
cover is removed to provide a first recess to receive a portion of
the plumbing and the second portion of the second cover is removed
to provide a second recess to receive a portion of the
plumbing.
8. The system of claim 7 wherein the first cover and the second
cover are substantially identical prior to the first portion and/or
the second portion is removed.
9. The system of claim 7 wherein the first portion and the second
portion are defined by grooves.
10. The system of claim 9 wherein the grooves are located on the
inside surface of the first cover and the second cover.
11. The system of claim 7 further comprising a third cover having a
first portion and a second portion that are removable to provide a
pair of recesses to receive at least a portion of the plumbing.
12. The system of claim 11 wherein the first cover, second cover,
and the third cover are substantially identical prior to the first
portion or the second portion is removed.
13. The system of claim 7 further comprising a third cover
configured to inhibit access to the plumbing extending between the
first recess of the first cover and the second recess of the second
cover.
14. The system of claim 13 wherein the third cover is a transition
cover.
15. A method of assembling a lavatory system, the method
comprising: providing a deck, plumbing, a first cover, and a second
cover, the first cover and the second cover being configured to
inhibit access to at least a portion of the plumbing and each cover
having a first portion and a second portion that are selectively
removable; removing the first portion from the first cover to
provide a first recess and mounting the first cover at the first
station so that the first recess receives at least a portion of the
plumbing; removing the second portion from the second panel to
provide a second recess and mounting the second cover at the second
station so that the second recess receives at least a portion of
the plumbing.
16. The method of claim 14 wherein the first portion and the second
portion are removed with a cutting tool.
17. The method of claim 14 further comprising providing a third
cover configured to be disposed between the first cover and the
second cover and to inhibit access to plumbing extending between
the first recess of the first cover and the second recess of the
second cover.
18. The method of claim 14 further comprising mounting the third
cover and then mounting the first cover and the second cover.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation-in-part of
co-pending application titled "Multiple Tier Lavatory Deck"
(application Ser. No. 10/116,335), filed on Apr. 4, 2002, the full
disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The present invention relates to a lavatory system. More
particularly, the present invention relates to a lavatory system
with a multiple tier deck.
[0003] It is known to install a lavatory system in a public,
commercial or industrial, residential or non-residential
environment such as a restroom. Such known lavatory systems
typically include one or more stations that provide lavatory
services to one or more users. Such known lavatory systems also
typically include a countertop, a backsplash, one or more wash
basins (with drains), accommodating one or more faucets, and are
adopted for plumbing to be coupled to the faucets (and drains). In
such known decks, the countertop is typically mounted to comply
with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Accessibility Guidelines
for Buildings and Facilities and Uniform Accessibility Standards
for Lavatories.
[0004] However, such known lavatory systems typically require
multiple custom designed and manufactured components, such as
multiple cover designs for placement at the various stations.
However, such known cover designs may not be conveniently or
efficiently manufactured, stored, transported, inspected, and the
like. Also, each of these covers requires its own tooling (e.g.,
molding, etc.).
[0005] Accordingly, it would be advantageous to provide for a
lavatory system having a cover that provides convenient and
efficient fabrication, assembly, installation, and maintenance of
the lavatory system. It would also be advantageous to provide may
be used at more than one washing station. It would further be
advantageous to provide for a deck that is more conveniently
usable/accessible to persons regardless of physical abilities of
potential users. It would further be advantageous to provide a deck
that provides access at multiple levels. It would be desirable to
provide for a lavatory system having one or more of these or other
advantageous features.
SUMMARY
[0006] The present invention relates to a lavatory system
configured to provide hand washing access to a user comprising a
deck providing a first station and a second station, plumbing in
communication with the first station and the second station, and a
first cover and a second cover configured to inhibit access to at
least a portion of the plumbing. The first cover and the second
cover each having a first portion and a second portion that are
removable. The first cover is mountable at the first station and
the second cover is mountable at the second station. The first
portion is removed on the first cover to provide a first recess and
the second portion is removed on the second cover to provide a
second recess so that the first recess and the second recess are
configured to receive a portion of the plumbing.
[0007] The present invention also relates to an enclosure system
for a lavatory system having plumbing and a deck. The system
comprises a first cover configured to inhibit access to at least a
portion of the plumbing and having a first portion and a second
portion that are selectively removable, and a second cover
configured to inhibit access to at least a portion of the plumbing
and having a first portion and a second portion that are
selectively removable. The first portion of the first cover is
removed to provide a first recess to receive a portion of the
plumbing and the second portion of the second cover is removed to
provide a second recess to receive a portion of the plumbing.
[0008] The present invention further relates to a method of
assembling a lavatory system comprising providing a deck, plumbing,
a first cover, and a second cover, the first cover and the second
cover being configured to inhibit access to at least a portion of
the plumbing and each cover having a first portion and a second
portion that are selectively removable, removing the first portion
from the first cover to provide a first recess and mounting the
first cover at the first station so that the first recess receives
at least a portion of the plumbing, and removing the second portion
from the second panel to provide a second recess and mounting the
second cover at the second station so that the second recess
receives at least a portion of the plumbing.
[0009] The present invention further relates to various features
and combinations of features shown and described in the disclosed
embodiments.
DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a lavatory system according
to a preferred embodiment.
[0011] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the lavatory
system of FIG. 1 with an accessory mounting structure.
[0012] FIG. 3 is a front elevation view of the lavatory system of
FIG. 1.
[0013] FIG. 4 is a sectional view of the lavatory system of FIG.
1.
[0014] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a lavatory system according
to an exemplary embodiment.
[0015] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a lavatory system according
to an exemplary embodiment.
[0016] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a lavatory system according
to an exemplary embodiment.
[0017] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a lavatory system according
to an exemplary embodiment.
[0018] FIG. 9 is a front elevation view of the lavatory system of
FIG. 8.
[0019] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a lavatory system according
to an exemplary embodiment.
[0020] FIG. 11 is a rear perspective view of the lavatory system of
FIG. 10.
[0021] FIG. 12 is a rear exploded perspective view of the lavatory
system of FIG. 10.
[0022] FIG. 13 is a rear exploded perspective view of a lavatory
system according to an alternative embodiment.
[0023] FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view of a lavatory system
according to an alternative embodiment.
[0024] FIG. 15 is a rear perspective view of a cover for the
lavatory systems shown in FIGS. 10, 13, and 14.
[0025] FIG. 16 is a rear perspective view of the cover of FIG. 15
with a portion removed.
[0026] FIG. 17 is a rear perspective view of the cover of FIG. 15
with two portions removed.
[0027] FIG. 18 is a fragmentary section view of the cover of FIG.
15 taken along line 18-18.
[0028] FIG. 19 is a section view of the lavatory system of FIG. 10
taken along line 19-19.
[0029] FIG. 20 is a section view of the lavatory system of FIG. 10
taken along line 20-20.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED AND OTHER EXEMPLARY
EMBODIMENTS
[0030] FIGS. 1-5 show a multilevel lavatory system 10 according to
a preferred embodiment. Lavatory system 10 is configured to
accommodate persons having varying abilities or characteristics for
using a lavatory system (e.g., disabled, tall, short, etc.). In
addition to the ease of manufacturing and installation, lavatory
system 10 incorporates a unitary lavatory subassembly that has a
minimum number of components, and provides an independent
hand-washing station for users having varying physical attributes
or abilities to attend to their washing needs. Also, this provides
each user with an adequate sense of privacy while washing at a
spaced distance from the next person using the lavatory system.
[0031] Lavatory system 10 includes a deck 12, a mounting
arrangement configured to attach lavatory system 10 to an adjacent
wall 16, a drain system 18 (shown in FIG. 2) disposed below deck
12, and a cover 20 configured to enclose plumbing system 18.
Lavatory system 10 may be configured for attachment to a surface
(such as wall 16 of a restroom or other area where it may be
desirable to provide a lavatory services) with a plurality of
connection points. Alternatively, the lavatory system may be
configured as a free-standing structure. Adjacent wall 16 may be
provided with the plumbing source (including both (or either) a hot
and cold water supply, preferably combined with a thermostatic
mixing valve, or a tempered water supply, a drain, etc.) and an
optional source such as an electrical outlet (preferably providing
110 volts GFCI).
[0032] According to an exemplary embodiment, deck 12 includes an
arcuate countertop 22 with a backsplash 24 extending upwardly from
countertop 22, and a front apron 26 extending downwardly from
countertop 22.
[0033] Countertop 22 may be configured in any of a variety of
constructions intended to promote the drainage of spilled or
splashed water to drain from countertop 22. Countertop 22 includes
an upper surface 30 of a lower station 32 having a concave surface
and an upper surface 34 of an upper station 36 having a convex
surface. According to a preferred embodiment, countertop 22
includes a curved surface configured to prevent water from
collecting (or "ponding"), to allow excess, splashed (or spilled
fluids) to drain toward a bowl 28, and to facilitate clean-up.
According to an exemplary embodiment, the curved surface has a
radius of between about 50 inches and 65 inches. According to a
preferred embodiment, the curved surface has a radius of between
about 55 inches and 60 inches. According to a particularly
preferred embodiment, the curved surface has a radius of about 57
inches. According to an alternative embodiment, the curved surface
may have any of a variety of radii. According to an alternative
embodiment, the deck has a sloped surface, a pitched surface.
According to an alternative embodiment, the deck comprises two or
more surfaces in a generally horizontal plane that are offset
vertically an horizontally.
[0034] Lower station 32 and upper station 36 are configured to
provide lavatory service and to accommodate persons having varying
abilities for using the lavatory system (e.g., disabled, tall,
short, etc.). According to any preferred embodiment, one or more
stations of lavatory system 10 are mounted at a standard height
that is designed to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA) Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities and
Uniform Accessibility Standards for Lavatories. According to a
particularly preferred embodiment, the height of the upper surface
of the deck is approximately 34 inches (865 millimeters), provides
a lower clearance (i.e., from the floor to the bottom of the apron)
of at least 29 inches (735 millimeters) or less above the floor,
and is equipped with a set of ADA compliant faucet assemblies.
According to any preferred embodiment, lavatory system 10 is
mounted with a counter surface no higher than thirty-one
inches.
[0035] According to an exemplary embodiment, lower and upper
stations 32, 36, are offset from each other to accommodate persons
having varying abilities for using the lavatory system (e.g.,
disabled, tall, short, etc). The offset station design is intended
to provide the individual users of the lavatory system personal
hand-washing space. According to a preferred embodiment, lower
station 32 is offset vertically and laterally from upper station
36. Lower station 32 is mounted at a height that intended to comply
with American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and ADA
accessibility standards. According to a preferred embodiment,
arcuate profile of the adjacent upper surfaces 30, 34 provide a
corresponding transition between concave and convex.
[0036] Lower and upper stations 32, 36 each includes a basin or
receptacle (shown as bowl 28) and a faucet assembly 38. Lower and
upper stations 32, 36 may also include a dispenser attached to
countertop 22 adjacent bowl 28 and an overflow conduit. According
to an exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 4, bowl 28 is attached to
a bottom surface of countertop 22, and has an upper periphery that
is sized to be larger (or approximately the same) than the aperture
is countertop (e.g., so that the bowl reveal seam is hidden). The
adhesive used for attaching any separate component of the deck
(e.g., the bowl to the countertop) may be the MA 600 Adhesive
commercially available from LTW Plexus of Danvers, Md. Bowl 28 may
be attached by any number of a variety of methods of attachment
including an adhesive, a fastener with a gasket, or the like), or
separate component may be a drop-in component configured to be
attached to upper surface 30, 34 of countertop 22 by any number of
a variety of methods of attachment (including fasteners, adhesive,
friction, or the like). According to an alternative embodiment,
bowl 28 may be any number of a variety of shapes and
configurations. According to an exemplary embodiments, two or more
differently configured (e.g., size, shape, etc.) are provided.
According to an alternative embodiment the bowl is an integrally
formed component of deck 12. According to another exemplary
embodiment, the bowls are formed (e.g., molded or cast) with the
deck. According to an exemplary embodiment, the drainage for bowls
28 is provided by a plurality of linear holes 46 in the bottom of
each bowl 28.
[0037] Front apron 26 is designed to provide a contoured frontal
surface to conceal certain components of lavatory system 10 and may
have any number of a variety of contours or shapes. According to a
preferred embodiment, front apron 26 extends downward from
countertop 22 and conceals a portion of cover 20 that attaches to a
bottom surface 42 of countertop 22. According to an exemplary
embodiment, an apron 43 is contoured (e.g., curved or arcuate).
(For example, apron 43 extends down from countertop 22 by a
consistent value or dimension.) According to alternative
embodiments, the apron may have any of a variety of
configurations.
[0038] Backsplash 24 is designed to protect the wall adjacent to
countertop 22 (e.g., from water splashed from the lower and upper
stations 32, 36 or other physical damage). The lower edge of apron
26 and the upper edge of the backsplash 24 have horizontal edges
such that the arcuate or curved surface is provided by the
countertops.
[0039] According to a preferred embodiment, countertop 22 includes
a liquid barrier 44 (shown as a ridge or rib) is located between
each of stations 32, 36 and is configured to prevent liquids from
the upper station 36 from draining towards lower station 32.
Barrier 44 projects (or steps up) from upper surfaces 30, 34 of
countertop 22. According to an alternative embodiment, the liquid
barrier can be a projection, slot, channel, or the like.
[0040] Deck 12 may be made from any of a variety of solid surface
materials, stainless steel, laminates, fiberglass, and the like.
According to a particular preferred embodiment, the deck is made
from a densified solid surface material composed of an acrylic
modified polyester resin that complies with ANSI Z124.3 and Z124.6.
According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the surface
material is of a type commercially available under the trade name
TERREON.RTM. from Bradley Corporation of Menomonee Falls, Wis. The
deck is intended to be resistant to chemicals, stains, burns, and
impact such that surface damage can easily be repaired with
everyday cleaners or fine grit abrasives. According to a preferred
embodiment, deck 12 is molded from a mixture of resin, filler,
pigment, and catalyst, which forms a liquid when combined. The
liquid mixture is poured or cast into a gel-coated fiberglass mold
at a filler hole (i.e., "mold hole"). According to an alternative
embodiment, filler holes are located midway between the basins.
[0041] A method of forming the deck according to a particularly
preferred embodiment is as follows: (a) the mold is coated with a
gel; (b) the resin, filler, pigment, and catalyst are each measured
and are mixed; (c) the liquid mixture is cast or injected into a
filler hole of the gel-coated fiberglass mold and allowed to cure
until it can be removed from the mold; (d) the deck is removed from
the mold and post-cured (e.g., heated to further relieve internal
stresses); (e) the flash is removed from the deck; (f) the surface
is prepared by polishing, sanding, or other finishing processes;
(g) any additional operations (e.g., machining, drilling holes and
adding inserts, or the like) are done prior to shipping and/or
assembling the lavatory system. According to alternative
embodiments, the mold is prepared according to the desired deck
configuration with inserts and blocks.
[0042] According to exemplary embodiments, the deck may be
integrally molded to include certain combinations of its
components, such as the countertop, back splashguard and the front
apron. According to alternative embodiments, the deck can be
integrally molded to include additional or other combinations of
components, such as one or both of the side aprons, the backsplash
and/or or other of the side splashguards. According to other
alternative embodiments, the deck can be integrally formed (e.g.
integrally molded or cast) into any of a variety of shapes and
sizes, having any of a variety of dimensions and geometries (e.g.,
curved or other forms) that may or may not require or include
certain of the components.
[0043] Cover 20 is configured to enclose drain system 18 and any
electrical supply/components, and conceal components below
countertops and all supply and waste connections. Cover is attached
to countertop 22 and/or adjacent wall 16 by fasteners (shown as
screws). According to a preferred embodiment, cover 20 is designed
to comply with all ADA Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and
Facilities, and Uniform Accessibility Standards for Lavatories.
Cover 20 has an upper lip configured to rest against bottom surface
42 of countertop 22 and provide a plurality of apertures for
fasteners configured to secure cover 20 to countertop 22. According
to an exemplary embodiment, the cover is a hair cell textured
acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic with dull finish. As
shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, an individual cover 20 is mounted at each
lower and upper station 32, 36. According to an alternative
embodiment, a single cover spans substantially the width of the
deck to cover the plumbing system of more than one station.
[0044] Faucet assembly 38 includes an activation mechanism (not
shown), a sensor (shown as an infrared sensor 48) and conduit (not
shown). Activation mechanism is configured to permit and prohibit
water flow according to an input signal. Infrared sensor 48 include
a sender and a receiver, and is configured to send an output signal
when the users place their hands near bowl 28 or under the faucet.
According to alternative embodiments, the faucet assembly may be
activated by any number of a variety commercially available sensors
(including mechanical metering, infrared activation, battery
operated infrared, battery operated infrared with temperature
control infrared activation). According to a preferred embodiment,
the detection area for infrared sensor 48 does not exceed the
perimeter of bowl 28. According to an alternative embodiment, the
sensor may be a separate fixture mounted to the countertop.
According to any preferred embodiment, the faucet assembly may be
any of a variety of conventional or commercial available faucet
assembly.
[0045] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, faucet
assembly is a "no-touch" faucet in the form of a Bradley Futura
Model 900 adaptive sensor module commercially available from
Bradley Fixtures Corporation of Menomonee Falls, Wis. Infrared
sensor 48 electronically activates a 24 volt solenoid valve using a
24 volt AC, 50/60 Hz power supply; faucet assembly 38 includes
chrome-plated, solid cast brass body with a center-shank-mounting.
According to an alternative embodiment, the faucet assembly may be
any number of a variety of commercially available water delivery
fixtures including those having manually operated activation
mechanisms.
[0046] According to alternative embodiments, shown in FIGS. 5-9 the
configuration (e.g., dimensions, number of stations, etc.) of the
lavatory system may be varied and may provide one or more number of
hand-washing stations having any variety of spacing
configurations.
[0047] FIGS. 6 and 7 show a lavatory system 50 according to an
alternative embodiment. Lavatory system 50 includes three stations
(shown as an upper station 52, an upper station 54, and a lower
station 56). Upper stations 52, 54 include an upper surface 58 that
is offset (i.e., vertically and laterally) from an upper surface 60
of lower station 56. As such, lower station 56 is configured to
comply with ANSI and ADA accessibility standards. Upper stations
52, 54 of lavatory system 50 are configured to provide comfortable
and convenient accessibility to persons having other physical
abilities. According to an alternative embodiment, the lavatory
system includes two stations with upper surfaces that are
vertically offset lower than the upper surface of the third
station. According to an alternative embodiment, the lavatory
system includes stations that have three (or more) different upper
surface heights. According to an alternative embodiment, the
lavatory system includes two adjacent stations with upper surfaces
that are vertically offset higher than the upper surface of the
third station. According to an alternative embodiment, the lavatory
system includes two adjacent stations with upper surfaces that are
vertically offset lower than the upper surface of the third
station. These two adjacent stations having comparable heights may
be located at either end or side of the lavatory system (e.g., left
or right). According to alternative embodiments, the lavatory
system may have any of a variety of combinations of "higher" or
"lower" stations arranged in any of a variety of order or
configuration. According to further alternative embodiments, the
lavatory may have any number of stations arranged at two or more
heights.
[0048] Referring to FIG. 6, a base 62 (e.g., pedestal, box, etc.)
is provided at each upper and lower station 52, 54, 56. Base 62
includes a faucet assembly 64 and a dispenser shown as soap
dispenser 66. Base 62 also includes an upper surface 68 configured
to provide space for storing items while the user uses lavatory
station. According to a preferred embodiment, upper surface 68
includes one or more projections 70 configured to provide a dry
surface to support personal items such as purses, briefcases,
documents, or the like. Projections 70 are disposed on a portion or
the upper surface 68 of base 62 and is formed by ribs or spherical
projections (shown as spherical projections in FIG. 6) extending
upward from upper surface 68 of base 62 or by grooves, slots, or
channels recessed from upper surface 68. According to an
alternative embodiment, the raised surface is a single flat surface
sized and designed to have the dimensions of articles typically
requiring stowing during hand-washing (e.g., purses, wallets,
briefcases, files, etc.) According to a particularly preferred
embodiment, the raised surface is raised approximately 0.25 to 0.50
inch above the upper surface of the countertop.
[0049] FIGS. 8 and 9 show a lavatory system 72 according to an
alternative embodiment. Lavatory system 72 includes an upper
station 74 and a lower station 76. Upper station 74 has an arcuate
countertop 78 with an upper surface 80 that is vertically and
laterally offset from an upper surface 82 of an arcuate countertop
84 of (adjacent) lower station 76. Upper station 74 and lower
station 76 are separate structures (i.e., non-integral or
non-unitary) that are configured to be visually integral (i.e.,
provide the appearance of a continuous design). The arcurate
profile of the adjacent countertops 78, 84 provide a corresponding
transition between concave and convex.
[0050] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 7, the lavatory system may include
a mounting structure 86 configured to provide support for any of a
variety of accessories, (e.g., a shelve 88 a bud vase 90, mirror,
monitor, light fixture, or the like). Mounting structure 86
includes an arcuate base member 94 (e.g., rail, bar, tube, etc.)
mounted to wall 16. (Alternatively, the base member may be mounted
to the deck or other structure.) Each shelf 88 includes a pair of
brackets 96 having a shelf support member 98 and a base member
interface 100 (shown as a downward facing channel). Shelves 88 may
be fastened to brackets 96 by fasteners or the like. Each vase 90
includes a bracket 102 having vase support member 104 and a base
member interface 106. According to alternative embodiments, the
base member, support members, or the base member interfaces may
have any of a variety of shapes or configurations.
Additional Exemplary Embodiments
[0051] FIGS. 10-20 show lavatory systems according to an exemplary
embodiment. The lavatory systems are configured to accommodate
(e.g., to provide hand washing access to) persons having varying
abilities or physical attributes or characteristics (e.g., adult,
juvenile, children, persons with disabilities, tall, short, etc.)
and/or be in compliance with accessibility guidelines. The lavatory
systems are also configured to provide for improved manufacturing,
inventory control, assembly, installation and maintenance by
incorporating common or universal components (at least in the
manufacturing stage) that are configurable or reconfigurable for a
variety of lavatory system designs and/or configurations (e.g.,
one-station, two-station, three-station, etc.). The multi-station
lavatory systems (i.e., two or more stations) are configured to
provide hand washing access to multiple users at the same time. The
lavatory systems are further configured to use space more
efficiently (e.g., fit and design of deck, sink, cover, and/or
walls) to provide improved access to and useability of the lavatory
system for users having varying physical attributes or abilities to
attend to their washing needs.
[0052] According to an exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 10-12,
lavatory system 110 includes a deck 112 and covers 114, 116, 118.
The covers shown in FIGS. 10-17 are adaptable (configurable,
reconfigurable, or the like) to accommodate a variety of mounting
conditions (arrangements, positions, etc.) so that it can be
mounted at a variety of positions below a deck. Referring to FIGS.
10, 19, and 20, the covers are designed to limit access (e.g.,
physical and visual) to plumbing 120 beneath the deck 112.
[0053] According to a preferred embodiment, lavatory system 110
provides for a connection to a common fluid supply line 122 (e.g.,
cold water supply and/or hot water supply) and a common drainage
line 124 so that installation to lavatory system 110 is simple and
efficient. Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, plumbing 120 for lavatory
system 110 includes a drainage network 126, which extends beneath
deck 112 and is connected to single drainage line 124 disposed in
wall 128. Drainage network 126 is coupled to each drain 130 by a
drain conduit 132. The drain conduits 132 are coupled to a junction
134 where waste water from each drain 130 is combined. Single drain
pipe or line 124 includes a P-trap 138 is coupled to junction 134
at a coupling to conduct the waste water out of lavatory system
110. According to an alternative embodiment, each drain could be
connected to a separate drainage line at separate connection
points. A faucet assembly 156 (in communication with a faucet
operations device 157) and a soap dispenser 136 are mounted to deck
112. According to an exemplary embodiment, faucet assembly 156
includes a battery operated infrared faucet. According to a
particularly preferred embodiment, faucet assembly 156 is a model
no. S53-302 faucet commercially available from Bradley Fixtures
Corporation of Menomonee Falls. According to an alternative
embodiment, any of a variety of faucets may be used. The faucet
assembly may also include a thermostatic mixing valve, a
transformer (to convert battery operated faucets, hot water
heaters, etc.).
[0054] According to an exemplary embodiment, plumbing (e.g., waste
line drainage conduit 132, supply line 122, electrical wiring and
connections, etc.) that would be exposed between the covers is
covered by a transition cover 140 to limit access (e.g., physical
and visual) to the plumbing (e.g., drain conduits 132, supply
lines, electrical wiring and connection, etc.). As such, the cover
and the transition cover are configured to enclose the plumbing
and/or electrical wiring (e.g., for visual effect, for compliance
with ADA and/or ANSI rules, etc.).
[0055] Each cover includes a recess or space on one or both of its
sides to receive at least a portion of transition cover 140 and/or
drain conduit 132. For example, first cover 114 has a single recess
142 on its left side, a second cover 116 has a recess 144 on its
right side, and a third cover 118 has recesses 142, 144 are on both
of its sides.
[0056] According to a preferred embodiment, the covers are made
without any recesses. Instead, each cover has portions 146, 148
(e.g., "knock-outs" or removable panels, wall portions, or the
like) that are removed during installation (mounting, attaching,
connecting, etc.) of the covers to lavatory system 110. As such, a
single cover (usable in any of the positions beneath the deck) is
molded from a single mold (tool) for all of the possible mounting
positions beneath the lavatory system. Depending on the position of
the particular cover on lavatory system 110 (e.g., under left
station, right station, middle station (if present)), one or both
of removable portions 146, 148 are removed.
[0057] According to an exemplary embodiment, removable portions
146, 148 may be provided (defined, outlined, etc.) by a wall or
panel portion having a reduced wall thickness relative to the wall
thickness of the cover. According to a preferred embodiment,
removable portions are defined or outlined by a channel or groove
150 along an inside surface 152 of the cover. According to a
particularly preferred embodiment, portions 146, 148 are removed by
a tool (e.g., cutting tool, thermal tool, rotary tool, knife, saw,
etc.) applied along groove 150. According to an alternative
embodiment, the removable portions are defined by ribs, grooves on
outside wall, markings, indicia, scoring or score line, or the like
that allow for easy identification of the removable portion and
preferably for easy detachment of the knock-out portion. According
to an alternative embodiment, the removable portions are defined by
a series of slots, grooves, holes, or the like (e.g., perforations)
that allow for easy identification of the removable portion and
preferably for easy detachment of the knock-out portion.
[0058] According to a preferred embodiment, each cover includes a
recess 153, which may include indicia (e.g., symbol, brand name,
logo, etc.) in any of a variety of forms (e.g., label, ink, molded
in, etc.). According to an exemplary embodiment, the covers
comprise a plastic material manufactured from any of a variety of
molding, forming, casting, or forming operations (e.g., injection
molding, rotational molding, thermoforming, vacuum forming,
pressure forming, or the like). According to exemplary embodiments,
material for the cover may be any of a variety of plastics (e.g.,
thermoplastics, thermosets, acrylic, polyethylene, polypropylene,
high-impact polystyrene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, or the
like) or other materials (e.g., metal, laminates, etc.).
[0059] To install lavatory system 110, deck 112 is mounted to
support brackets 154 attached to wall 128. Plumbing 120 is
connected to faucet assemblies 156 and basins 158. Transition cover
or covers 140 are mounted to wall 128 and over a portion of
waste-line drainage conduit 132 with a single fastener 160 through
a center vertical slot 162. Each cover which (at least partially)
covers the transitional cover and the plumbing, is prepared or
fabricated. The covers may be prepared on site of the installation
or at the manufacturer, distributor, installer, or any location
where staging or fabrication or assembly may occur. A first cover
114 (e.g., the right cover when viewing lavatory system 110) has
the left removable portion 146 removed (e.g., cut, ripped,
separated, scored, etc.) to expose or create recess 142. A second
cover 116 (i.e., the left cover when viewing from the front) has
the right removable portion 148 removed to expose or create recess
144. A third cover 118 (the middle cover when viewing from the
front if a three station lavatory system) has both removable
portions 146, 148 removed to expose or create recesses 142, 144.
The covers are mounted to wall 128 using fasteners 164 that are
inserted through apertures or slots 166 on mounting portions 168 on
the covers (shown as a recess 170 and a flange 172) and through
apertures or slots 174 on mounting portion 176 of transition cover
140.
[0060] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 12, lavatory system 110 is shown
to include deck 112 having basin 158 (e.g., bowl, sink, receptacle,
etc.) mounted to a countertop 178. FIG. 19 shows a section view of
cover 114 mounted at an upper station 36. FIG. 20 shows a section
view of a cover 118 mounted at a lower station 32. To accommodate
ADA clearance dimensions, cover 118 is configured and mounted to
reduce or (preferably) minimize spacing between cover 118 and deck
112, basin 158, plumbing 120, and other portions of lavatory system
110. For example, as shown in FIG. 20, a top edge 180 of cover 118
is adjacent (e.g., near or even in contact with) a lower surface
182 of deck 112.
[0061] According to an exemplary embodiment, one or more stations
are intended to provide an ergonomically correct position for a
variety of potential users (e.g., one or more adults, children,
persons with disabilities, and combinations thereof). According to
a preferred embodiment, basin 158 is configured (shaped, formed,
molded, contoured, etc.) to interface with cover 118 to position
basin 158 closer to the user and comply with Americans with
Disabilities Act ("ADA") Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and
Facilities and Uniform Accessibility Standards for Lavatories which
are herein incorporated by reference) and and American National
Standards Institute (ANSI) Z124.3 and Z124.6 (which are herein
incorporated by reference) so that the user is not required to
reach as far to operate the faucet, place hands under running water
(or in sink area), or the like, and still provide a conventionally
sized sink area. The configuration of basin 158 is also intended to
minimize the space occupied by lavatory system 110 in the room or
space that it resides (e.g., washroom, restroom, bathroom, hallway,
shop floor, and other industrial, commercial, and/or private
spaces).
[0062] According to an exemplary embodiment, the lavatory systems
are configured to comply with ADA guidelines (adult and juvenile)
and/or other accessibility guidelines. As shown in FIG. 20, a block
192 is shown to illustrate accessibility clearances in compliance
with ADA guidelines. Block 192 includes a deck counter surface
height H1, a deck clearance height H2 from the floor to the apron,
a knee clearance height H3 from the floor to the underneath of the
lavatory (i.e., the cover shown in the FIGURES), a toe clearance
height H4, a clear floor space, a total clearance depth D1, and a
knee clearance depth D2.
[0063] Under current ADA adult guidelines, a lavatory is to be
provided with H1 being no higher than 34 inches (865 millimeters),
H2 being a minimum of 29 inches (735 millimeters), H3 being a
minimum of 27 inches (685 millimeters), H4 being a minimum of 8
inches (205 millimeters), D1 being a minimum of 17 inches (430
millimeters), D2 being a minimum of 8 inches (205 millimeters), and
if a minimum of 9 inches (230 millimeters) of toe clearance is
provided, a maximum of 6 inches (150 millimeters) of the 48 inches
(1220 millimeters) of clear floor space required at the fixture may
extend into the toe space. Under ADA children or juvenile
guidelines, a lavatory is to be provided with an apron clearance
and a knee clearance (H2) of 24 inches (610 millimeters) minimum
and a rim or counter surface height (H1) of 31 inches (760
millimeters) maximum. According to a particularly preferred
embodiment, the ADA adult compliant station has a deck 178 between
32 inches and 34 inches above the floor and 22 inches from the
wall, an apron 30 inches above the floor, a cover 12.25 inches
above the floor. According to a particularly preferred embodiment,
the ADA juvenile compliant station has a deck 178 that is 31 inches
above the floor and 22 inches from the wall, an apron 27 inches
above the floor, a cover 9.25 inches above the floor.
[0064] As shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, one or more stations of the
lavatory system is mounted at a height that is designed to comply
with the accessibility guidelines. According to an exemplary
embodiment, the cover and basin are configured (e.g., shaped,
orientated, etc.) to provide space beneath the deck for block 192
in compliance with accessibility guidelines. Referring to FIG. 20,
basin 158 includes a front wall 184, a rear wall 186, a pair of
sidewalls 188, and an overflow opening 189. As illustrated with
clearance block 192, the user is able to be positioned closer to
the sink area as cover 118 is not disposed as far from wall 128 if
front wall 184 was not contoured. According to an exemplary
embodiment, cover 118 includes a concave portion 190 (e.g., an
indentation or the like). According to a preferred embodiment,
front wall 184 of basin 158 is configured (e.g., shaped, designed,
orientated, etc.) to conform with the cover. According to an
exemplary embodiment, front wall 184 is contoured to provide space
beneath deck 112 so that the user (e.g., if seated in a wheelchair)
would not have to reach as far to place hands over basin 158.
According to a preferred embodiment, the contour of front wall 184
projects into the area defined by basin 158. According to a
particularly preferred embodiment, front wall 184 is at least
partially "convex" so that front wall 184 project or curves into
the sink area. As such, the lavatory system is configured to use
space more efficiently (e.g., fit and design of deck, sink, cover,
and/or walls), and provide improved access to and useability of the
lavatory system for users having varying physical attributes or
abilities to attend to their washing needs.
[0065] FIGS. 10-12 show a lavatory system with three stations
(shown as an upper station, an upper station, and a lower station).
The upper stations include an upper surface that is offset (i.e.,
vertically and laterally) from an upper surface of the lower
station. As such, the lower station is configured to comply with
ANSI, ADA, and/or other accessibility standards. The upper stations
of the lavatory system are configured to provide comfortable and
convenient accessibility to persons having other physical
abilities. According to an alternative embodiment, the lavatory
system includes two stations with upper surfaces that are
vertically offset lower than the upper surface of the third
station. According to an alternative embodiment, the lavatory
system includes stations that have three (or more) different upper
surface heights (e.g., to accommodate three potential users having
three different physical abilities, such as standard, ADA adult,
and ADA juvenile). According to an alternative embodiment, the
lavatory system includes two adjacent stations with upper surfaces
that are vertically offset lower than the upper surface of the
third station (e.g., at the same or different hights). These two
adjacent stations may be located at either end or side of the
lavatory system (e.g., left or right). According to alternative
embodiments, the lavatory system may have any of a variety of
combinations of "higher" or "lower" stations arranged in any of a
variety of order or configuration. According to further alternative
embodiments, the lavatory may have any number of stations arranged
at two or more heights.
[0066] According to a particularly preferred embodiment shown in
FIGS. 19 and 20, the deck (including the apron and backsplash) and
basin are molded or cast as an integral or one-piece component
using solid surface material. According to an alternative
embodiment, the deck can be cast or molded as two or more
components that are assembled.
[0067] It is also important to note that the construction and
arrangement of the elements of the lavatory system as shown in the
preferred and other exemplary embodiments are illustrative only.
Although only a few embodiments of the present invention have been
described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art
who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many
modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions,
structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values
of parameters, mounting arrangements, materials, colors,
orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel
teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited in the
claims. For example, the lavatory system may have any number of
stations located at any number of heights. Also, the deck may have
any of a variety of configurations, materials, and stations.
Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included
within the scope of the present invention as defined in the
appended claims. The order or sequence of any process or method
steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative
embodiments. In the claims, any means-plus-function clause is
intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the
recited function and not only structural equivalents but also
equivalent structures. Other substitutions, modifications, changes
and/or omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions
and arrangement of the preferred and other exemplary embodiments
without departing from the spirit of the present invention as
expressed in the appended claims.
* * * * *