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Title:
LIQUID DISPENSER FOR A SINK FAUCET
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2017/184915
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
A faucet integrated liquid dispensing system which includes a faucet and a liquid dispensing system. The faucet includes a faucet body, a spout for dispensing water from the faucet, and a dispenser compartment positioned within an interior of the faucet body. The liquid dispenser system includes a dispenser cartridge configured to contain a liquid and positionable within the dispenser compartment of the faucet, one or more fluid lines in fluid communication with the dispenser cartridge, and a dispenser button. Activating the dispenser button provides dispensing of the liquid from the dispenser cartridge through a spout of the faucet.

Inventors:
ZAVODNICK DANIEL S (US)
ZAVODNICK ALAN (US)
COUGHLIN MATTHEW PATRICK (US)
Application Number:
PCT/US2017/028721
Publication Date:
October 26, 2017
Filing Date:
April 21, 2017
Export Citation:
Click for automatic bibliography generation   Help
Assignee:
HUNTER INNOVATIONS LLC (US)
International Classes:
E03C1/046; A47K5/12; B05B1/18; B05B7/04; B05B7/24
Foreign References:
US4674902A1987-06-23
US2795460A1957-06-11
US20100125946A12010-05-27
US4998836A1991-03-12
US4019658A1977-04-26
US3612355A1971-10-12
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
GEARY, Lisa, E. et al. (US)
Download PDF:
Claims:
CLAIMS

What is claimed is:

1. A faucet integrated liquid dispensing system comprising:

a faucet comprising:

a faucet body,

a spout for dispensing water from the faucet body, and

a dispenser compartment positioned within an interior of the faucet body; and a liquid dispenser system comprising:

a dispenser cartridge configured to contain a liquid and positionable within the dispenser compartment,

one or more fluid lines each having a distal end configured to provide fluid communication with the dispenser cartridge and a proximal end in fluid communication with an outlet of the spout, and

a dispenser button positioned on the faucet,

wherein the dispenser button is configured to initiate dispensing of the liquid from the dispenser cartridge to exit though the outlet of the spout.

2. The system of Claim 1 , wherein the faucet comprises:

a spray head comprising the spout and positioned at an end of the faucet body.

3. The system of Claim 2, wherein the spray head is a pull-out spray head, and wherein the one or more fluid lines comprises a slack length that permits the pull-out spray head to be pulled away from the faucet body while remaining fluidly coupled to the dispenser cartridge.

4. The system of Claim 1, wherein the one or more fluid lines comprise a first connection means at the distal end thereof, and the dispenser cartridge comprises a second connection means.

5. The system of Claim 4, wherein the first connection means comprises one of a male or female luer connector, and the second connection means comprises the other of the male or female luer connector.

6. The system of Claim 1 , wherein the liquid comprises a concentrated liquid soap.

7. The system of Claim 1 , wherein the dispenser cartridge is a disposable pouch.

8. The system of Claim 1, wherein the dispenser cartridge is refillable.

9. The system of Claim 1 , further comprising:

a pump for pumping the liquid from the dispenser cartridge out of the outlet of the spout via the one or more fluid lines.

10. The system of Claim 9, wherein the pump is positioned within the faucet body.

11. The system of Claim 9, wherein the pump is positioned external to the faucet body.

12. The system of Claim 1, wherein the system uses a vacuum provided by a flow of water from the faucet to dispense the liquid from the dispenser cartridge through the outlet of the spout.

13. The system of Claim 1, wherein the faucet further comprises a door positioned on the faucet body and configured to provide access to the dispenser compartment.

14. The system of Claim 1, wherein the dispenser button initiates dispensing of the liquid from the dispenser cartridge with a flow of water from the spout of the faucet.

15. A faucet integrated liquid dispensing system comprising:

a faucet comprising:

a faucet body having a dispenser compartment positioned within an interior thereof and a door configured to provide access to the dispenser compartment, and

a pull-out faucet arm positioned at an end of the faucet body, the pull-away faucet arm having a spray head position at a distal end thereof; and a liquid dispenser system comprising:

a dispenser cartridge configured to contain a liquid and positionable within the dispenser compartment,

one or more fluid lines each having a distal end in fluid communication with the dispenser cartridge and a proximal end in fluid communication with an outlet of the spray head, the one or more fluid lines comprising a slack length that permits the pull-out faucet arm to be pulled away from the faucet body while remaining fluidly coupled to the dispenser cartridge, and

a dispenser button positioned on the faucet body,

wherein the dispenser button is configured to initiate dispensing of the liquid from the dispenser cartridge through the outlet of the spray head.

16. A faucet integrated liquid dispensing system comprising:

a faucet comprising:

a faucet body,

a spout for dispensing water from the faucet body, and

a dispenser compartment positioned within an interior of the faucet body; and a liquid dispenser system comprising:

one or more fluid lines each having a distal end positioned within the dispenser compartment and a proximal end in fluid communication with an outlet of the spout, and

a dispenser button positioned on the faucet body,

wherein the dispenser button is configured to initiate flow of a fluid between the distal and proximal ends of the one or more fluid lines. The system of Claim 16, further comprising:

a dispenser cartridge configured to contain a liquid and positionable within the dispenser compartment, wherein the distal ends of the one or more fluid lines are attachable to the dispenser cartridge and provide fluid communication between the fluid cartridge and the outlet of the spout.

The system of Claim 17, further comprising:

a pump for pumping the fluid from the dispenser cartridge out of the outlet of the spout via the one or more fluid lines.

A disposable dispenser cartridge comprising:

at least two sidewalls composed of a flexible material and defining an enclosed interior compartment;

a concentrated liquid soap contained within the enclosed interior compartment; and at least one inlet providing access to the concentrated liquid soap contained within the enclosed interior compartment, the at least one inlet comprising a second connection means configured to provide connection with a first connection means at the distal end of the one or more fluid lines of the faucet integrated liquid dispensing system of Claim 16.

The disposable dispenser cartridge of Claim 20, wherein the first connection means comprises one of a male or female luer connector, and the second connection means comprises the other of the male or female luer connector.

Description:
TITLE

LIQUID DISPENSER FOR A SINK FAUCET

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of the filing date of prior U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 62/325,572, filed on April 21, 2016, the content of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention pertains generally to a liquid dispensing system, and more particularly to a liquid soap dispensing system which is integrated with the body of a faucet.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Modern kitchen sinks often have a liquid soap dispenser built into the sink itself. These dispensers alleviate the need for extra liquid dispenser bottles in the area surrounding the sink, providing a clean and improved appearance. If you want to squirt soap into a big pot to clean it, however, you have to put the pot under the soap dispenser which is often not easily accomplished. For example, other dishes may be taking up room in the sink, the pot may be too large to fit under the dispenser, and/or the dispenser arm may be too short. Moreover, the reservoir which supplies the soap to the dispenser is commonly located beneath the sink, generally at the back of the storage cabinet on which the sink is installed. Replenishment of this reservoir involves removing other items which may be stored under the sink, and reaching into the back of the storage cabinet to unhook or unscrew the reservoir. All this is generally done on ones hands and knees.

[0004] Prior art solutions to this problem have included soap dispenser lines which are integral with the faucet, such as detailed in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,397,050 to Davis, et al., 5,031,258 to Shaw, 5,1 14,048 to Minke, 5,625,908 to Shaw, and 7,458,523 to Hyslop, and in U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2004/0211000 and 2015/0083748. In each publication, however, the disclosed solution continues to store the soap reservoir beneath the sink. Thus, while these solutions eliminate some of the complications indicated above with regard to accessibility of the soap from the short dispensers of the prior art, they do nothing to solve the problems encountered when trying to replenish the soap reservoir. [0005] Other prior art solutions have aimed to address this latter issue by placing the soap reservoir at sink level. For example, U.S. Patent No. 6,390,340 to Lynch, Sr. provides a housing that is positioned on a surface of the sink rim, and which provides the liquid soap to the faucet via a tube that is attached along an outer surface of the faucet arm. While this provides an easy means to refill the liquid soap dispenser, there remains an extra liquid dispenser bottle in the area surrounding the sink, and the solution requires an additional fluid line that mars the clean appearance of the faucet.

[0006] Other solutions have placed the liquid soap dispenser at an end of the faucet, such as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,961,049 to Kaps, et al., which shows a shower head that includes two small reservoirs integrated within a region directly above the water outlet of the shower head. Both U.S. Patent No. 5,857,594 to Ozturk and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0223159 to Gregory disclose devices that are attachable to a faucet spout which dispense a liquid soap. In each of these publications, the solution leads to an enlarged faucet outlet or spout which may be cumbersome to handle, such as the shower head disclosed by Kaps, et al, and/or may get in the way of other activities, such as the attachable reservoirs disclosed by Ozturk and Gregory.

[0007] Accordingly, what is needed is a system and method for dispensing a liquid directly from a faucet head, wherein the liquid reservoir is positioned at sink level yet does not increase the size of the faucet head, interfere with the normal workings of the faucet, or mar the appearance of the faucet.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The presently disclosed invention overcomes many of the shortcomings of the prior art by providing a liquid dispenser that is integrated with the faucet so that refilling or replacement of the liquid in the dispenser is achieved at sink level. Further, since the various elements of the system are integrated within the faucet, there are no extra bottles or components cluttering the sink top or surrounding counter. This simplifies everyday tasks by eliminating manual pumping of a liquid such as soap from a separate container, and provides the liquid soap at the location where it is needed most— in close proximity to the water outlet. Not only do the inventive embodiments save water, energy, and time, they also free up valuable kitchen and bath countertop and deck real estate. [0009] Thus, according to its major aspects, and briefly stated, the present invention includes a faucet integrated liquid dispensing system comprising a faucet and a liquid dispenser system. The faucet may comprise a faucet body, a spout for dispensing water from the faucet body, and a dispenser compartment positioned within an interior of the faucet body. The liquid dispenser system may comprise a dispenser cartridge configured to contain a liquid and positionable within the dispenser compartment, one or more fluid lines in fluid communication with the dispenser cartridge and an outlet of the spout, and a dispenser button. The dispenser button is generally configured to control dispensing of the liquid from the dispenser cartridge to exit from the outlet of the spout.

[0010] The present invention also includes a liquid dispenser system for a sink faucet which may be sold or provided separate from the faucet. The liquid dispenser system may comprise one or more fluid lines, a dispenser cartridge configured to contain a liquid and positionable either within a dispenser compartment of a faucet or on an outer surface of the faucet, the dispenser cartridge having an inlet configured to provide access to the one or more fluid lines, and a dispenser button. The liquid dispenser system may additionally comprise a pump which may be mechanical or electrical. Activating the dispenser button provides dispensing of the liquid from the dispenser cartridge through a spout of the faucet.

[0011] The present invention also includes a dispenser cartridge designed and configured to contain a liquid and positionable within a dispenser compartment of a faucet, the dispenser cartridge having an inlet configured to provide access to one or more fluid lines.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Aspects, features, benefits and advantages of the embodiments herein will be apparent with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings. In the following figures, like numerals represent like features in the various views. It is to be noted that features and components in these drawings, illustrating the views of embodiments of the present invention, unless stated to be otherwise, are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0013] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a faucet comprising the liquid dispensing system in accordance with certain aspects of the present invention; [0014] FIG. 2 illustrates a font view of a flexible dispenser cartridge having a side mounted spout in accordance with certain aspects of the present invention;

[0015] FIG. 3 illustrates a font view of a flexible dispenser cartridge having a top mounted spout in accordance with certain aspects of the present invention;

[0016] FIG. 4 illustrates a font view of a flexible dispenser cartridge having a flat mounted spout in accordance with certain aspects of the present invention; and

[0017] FIG. 5 illustrates a font view of a dispenser cartridge in accordance with certain aspects of the present invention

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] In the following description, the present invention is set forth in the context of various alternative embodiments and implementations involving a liquid dispenser system for a sink faucet, a faucet including the integrated liquid dispenser system, and various liquid dispenser cartridges for use with the liquid dispenser system.

[0019] Various aspects of the system may be illustrated by describing components that are coupled, attached, and/or joined together. As used herein, the terms "coupled", "attached", and/or "joined" are interchangeably used to indicate either a direct connection between two components or, where appropriate, an indirect connection to one another through intervening or intermediate components. In contrast, when a component is referred to as being "directly coupled", "directly attached", and/or "directly joined" to another component, there are no intervening elements shown in said examples.

[0020] Various aspects of the system may be illustrated with reference to one or more exemplary implementations. As used herein, the term "exemplary" means "serving as an example, instance, or illustration," and should not necessarily be construed as preferred or advantageous over other variations of the devices, systems, or methods disclosed herein. "Optional" or "optionally" means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where the event occurs and instances where it does not. In addition, the word "comprising" as used herein means "including, but not limited to". [0021] Furthermore, throughout the specification, reference to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," or "some embodiments" means that a particular described feature, structure, or characteristic is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment," "in an embodiment," or "in some embodiments" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the various embodiments can be practiced without one or more of the specific details or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or not described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the embodiments.

[0022] Relative terms such as "lower" or "bottom" and "upper" or "top" may be used herein to describe one element's relationship to another element illustrated in the drawings. It will be understood that relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of aspects of the sleeve and/or the coupled assembly in addition to the orientation depicted in the drawings. By way of example, if aspects of the faucet shown in the drawings are turned over, elements described as being on the "bottom" side of the other elements would then be oriented on the "top" side of the other elements as shown in the relevant drawing. The term "bottom" can therefore encompass both an orientation of "bottom" and "top" depending on the particular orientation of the drawing.

[0023] It must also be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include the plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a "button", or a "cartridge", or a "fluid line", is a reference to one or more of each and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art, and so forth. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0024] The liquid dispensing system disclosed herein is designed and configured to be integral with a sink faucet such that the components of the system are provided either in or on the faucet body at sink level. Thus, according to certain aspects of the present invention, the faucet integrated liquid dispensing system includes a sink faucet comprising a dispenser compartment positioned within an internal region of a body of the faucet, and a liquid dispensing system that includes a dispenser cartridge that holds a liquid and which is positionable within the dispenser compartment, a dispenser button, and one or more fluid lines in fluid communication with the liquid in the dispenser cartridge. Activation of the dispenser button may provide discharge of the liquid from a spout of the faucet via the one or more fluid lines.

[0025] Shown in FIG. 1 is an illustration of a faucet integrated liquid dispensing system according to certain aspects of the present invention, generally designated by reference number 10. A liquid dispenser cartridge 13 may be located in a base portion of the faucet body 17 and/or within a mounting deck 11. According to certain aspects of the system, the liquid dispenser cartridge 13 may be positioned within an internal region of the faucet (e.g., faucet body 17, mounting deck 11, etc.) such as within a dispenser compartment 12, and may be concealed by a cover or door 15 that may be configured to blend with the surface finish of the faucet.

[0026] The door 15 is generally configured to provide access to the dispenser compartment 12, and the liquid dispenser cartridge 13 positioned therein. The door 15 may comprise a hinge, and may be spring loaded to remain in the closed position. Such components (i.e., hinges and springs) may be positioned on an inside surface of the door so that they are not visible from the exterior surface of the faucet. In cases where the door is spring loaded to remain in the closed position, the door may include a handle, indent, or lip that would allow a user to pull the door open and gain access to the internal compartment. The door may also include stop positions that would keep the door in an open position until released by the user to regain the closed position. Alternatively, the door may be spring loaded to open and may include a concealed push-to-open or close latch, such as is common for doors which cover gas caps on many cars.

[0027] The door 15 may be configured and designed to remain flush with the faucet body 17, and/or may be composed of the same material or have the same finish as the faucet.

[0028] The faucet body 17 may extend from the mounting deck or faucet base 11, as shown, or from the countertop. The faucet may be mounted to the countertop using any suitable mounting hardware. For example, the faucet may be mounted to the countertop using an assembly device as detailed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0356027, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

[0029] Also shown is a handle 16 which activates a flow of water from the faucet. While the faucet shown in FIG. 1 has a specific design, such as a single handle pull-out kitchen faucet, other faucet designs are within the scope of the present invention. Thus, the faucet may be a single handle faucet, a mechanically operated dual control or single control faucet, a pull-out faucet, a pull-down faucet, or a hands-free, electronic sensor faucet for the kitchen or the lavatory (i.e., wash basin, or tub/shower).

[0030] With continued reference to FIG. 1, the system also includes one or more fluid lines 22 which provide fluid communication between the dispenser cartridge 13 and a spout 24 of the faucet. The one or more fluid lines 22 may run in tandem with a water line to the faucet head 21, and may terminate at an opening adjacent to or coincident with the openings for water in the spout 24. In certain instances, the one or more fluid lines 22 and the water line may be a bifurcated fluid line. Alternately, the one or more fluid lines may be in fluid communication with the water line at a point prior to the spout 24 of the faucet.

[0031] In certain cases, the faucet may be a pull-out faucet or pull-down faucet. In such a configuration, the faucet may include a faucet arm 14 that is extendable away from the faucet body 17 (as shown), or may include a pull-out or pull-down spray head that extends from an end of the faucet. Pull out faucets generally include a button enabling a user to toggle between a center flow of water and a shower flow of water. The faucet of the presently disclosed system may include a spray head on the faucet arm 14 which includes the spout 24. In such a configuration, switching the flow of water discharged at the spout 24 of the faucet from a constant flow to a spray may be achieved by depressing a button 20 on the faucet head 21.

[0032] In cases where the faucet is a pull-out faucet or pull-down faucet, the one or more fluid lines 22 may include enough length, or slack, so that there is no tension in the one or more fluid lines 22 when the faucet arm 14 (as shown) or faucet spray head is fully "pulled-out" or extended. Further, the one or more fluid lines 22 may be wrapped around the water line, may be connected to the water line, or may be encased in a casing with the water line to reduce the risk that the one or more fluid lines 22 become entangled and to provide a cleaner looking system.

[0033] The system may further include a dispensing button 18 which may be positioned on the faucet arm 14 such as, for example, on the faucet head 21 (as shown), or on any portion of the faucet body 17 or base 11 which would be easily accessible by a user, such as on the a side of the faucet, or on the dispenser compartment door 15. [0034] According to certain aspects of the invention, the dispensing button 18 may be a non-invasive button which may be depressed or touched to trigger dispensing of the liquid. That is, the dispensing button 18 may lie flush with the surface of the faucet body 17, faucet arm 14, or faucet head 21.

[0035] According to certain aspects of the invention, the dispensing button 18 may be configured as a different position for the button 20 which switches the flow of water discharged at the spout 24 of the faucet from a constant flow to a spray. As such, the buttons 18 and 20 would comprise a single physical button of the faucet having several set positions.

[0036] According to certain aspects of the present invention, the button dispensing 18 may be a motion activated sensor which is triggered by motion of a user's hand.

[0037] Activation of the dispensing button (i.e., 18, or a different position for 20) may enable the user to dispense soap directly from the faucet either with the water stream or independent from the water stream. For example, depressing the dispensing button 18 may cause a squirt of soap to be delivered which may be independent of the flow of water from the faucet (e.g., independent of the volume or temperature of the flow of water, or whether there is a flow of water).

[0038] Alternatively, or in addition, depressing the dispensing button 18 may cause the system to dispense soap within the stream of water so that the water and soap mix at a certain concentration. This latter option may include dispensing the soap directly from a separate opening in the spout 24 than the water opening(s), or may include mixing the soap and water at a point along the fluid path of the system before the fluid openings in the spout 24 so that the soap/water mixture exit from the same opening in the spout 24. In this latter instance, where the soap and water are mixed at a point along the fluid path of the system before the fluid openings in the spout 24, a mixing valve or chamber may be included. Any mixing valve or chamber known in the art is within the scope of the present invention. For example, a simple Venturi mixing valve or chamber could be installed at a position along the fluid path of the system (fluid line(s) 22 and water line(s) of the faucet) before the fluid openings in the spout 24

[0039] The amount of liquid dispensed from the system (liquid dispenser cartridge 13) may be manually controlled, such as by a length of time the user depresses the dispensing button 18. Alternatively, the system may respond by dispensing a standard amount of liquid on activation of dispensing button 18, which may be independent of the length of time the user depresses the dispensing button 18.

[0040] The system may include a controller or control module which may control dispensing and/or mixing of the soap with water. For example, the control module may instruct a pump to dispense soap for a predefined interval of time (e.g., several seconds). The mixing valve may be an electronically controllable mixing valve which may control the dose of soap to be provided.

[0041] The various components diagramed in FIG. 1 are generally internal to the faucet 10 (faucet body 17, faucet arm 14, and faucet head 21), such as the dispenser cartridge 13 and the fluid lines 22. These components may all be housed neatly within the faucet 10 with the exception of the dispensing button 18, which is positioned on an external surface of the faucet so that a user may easily gain access. According to certain aspects of the present invention, however, the dispenser cartridge may be housed in a region of the faucet body 17 that is on an exterior surface thereof. That is, the cartridge may attach to or be positioned in the external surface of the faucet body 17, and the one or more fluid lines may be housed within the faucet body, faucet arm 14, and faucet head 21.

[0042] The dispenser cartridge 13 may be a disposable or refillable component of the system. For example, the dispenser cartridge 13 may be disposed of when empty and replaced with a new cartridge, or may be refillable.

[0043] As shown in FIGs. 2 - 4, the dispenser cartridge 13 may be flexible and may include a cartridge spout. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the cartridge spout 202 may be positioned at a corner of the flexible pouch 200. As shown in FIG. 3, the cartridge spout 302 may be positioned along a top edge of the flexible pouch 300. In another embodiment, the cartridge spout 402 may be positioned along a longitudinal side of the flexible pouch 400.

[0044] Each of the dispenser cartridges 13 shown in FIGs. 2 - 4 may be designed to be disposable or refillable. For example, the pouches (200, 300, 400) may comprise a ZIPLOC style closure along a top perimeter that may be opened to allow easy refilling of the pouch with a liquid. This ZIPLOC style closure may then be closed to seal the pouch (200, 300, 400) and the cartridge spouts (202, 302, 402) may be used to provide access to the one or more fluid lines 22. [0045] Alternately, the pouches (200, 300, 400) may comprise a spout that may allow refilling with a liquid, and an opening which may provide access for the one or more fluid lines 22. Any configuration which may allow refilling of the dispenser cartridge 13 and fluid communication for the one or more fluid lines 22 is within the scope of the present invention.

[0046] In certain embodiments, the dispenser cartridge 13 may not be flexible, and may be formed of a harder material. As example, the dispenser cartridge 500 shown in FIG. 5 may be designed to be disposable, or may be designed to be refillable, and may include a port or open top portion (not shown) to provide access to the one or more fluid lines 22.

[0047] The shape and design of the dispenser cartridge may vary, and may depend on the specific configuration of the faucet body and volume of liquid to be contained therein. The exemplary dispenser cartridge designs shown herein are only for illustrative purposes, and can vary in shape, size, and material.

[0048] The one or more fluid lines 22 which provide connection between the dispenser cartridge 13 and the spout 24 of the faucet may have an end portion that provides connection with the dispenser cartridge 13. For example, the one or more fluid lines 22 may be configured to puncture the cartridge 13. That is, the one or more fluid lines 22 may have a beveled cannula end configured to pierce a side or top of a disposable cartridge which resembles a juice pouch or a beverage extraction cup (e.g., K-cup®). Alternatively, the one or more fluid lines 22 may simply slide into a cartridge spout, such as the spouts (202, 302, 402) shown in FIGs. 2 - 4.

[0049] In certain embodiments, the one or more fluid lines 22 may include a first connection means that provides an air-tight seal or liquid-tight seal with the dispenser cartridge 13. Installation of the dispenser cartridge 13 may include connecting a connection means on the dispenser cartridge (see for example the spouts 202, 302, and 402 shown on the dispensing cartridges depicted in FIGs. 2 - 4) to the first connection means.

[0050] The ends of the one or more fluid lines 22 including the first connection means may be available for the user to make the connection (e.g., the ends may be loose within the dispenser compartment 12), or may be part of a more stable portion of the faucet body 17 or the dispenser compartment 12 (e.g., a connection plate). Various types and styles of connection plates are known in the art are within the scope of the present invention. [0051] Furthermore, various configurations for connection between an end of the one or more fluid lines 22 and the dispenser cartridge 13 are envisioned and are within the scope of the present invention. For example, the ends of the one or more fluid lines 22 may include a screw connection to hold the lines in place within the dispenser cartridge 13, and/or may be weighted so that the lines are encouraged to reside at the bottom of the dispenser cartridge 13. For example, simple luer connectors having a male connector and a female connector may be used to provide quick connection between the dispenser cartridge 13 and a distal end of the one or more fluid lines 22. This connection may be air or liquid tight so that the lines may not need to be positioned with an end that reaches to the bottom of the dispenser cartridge 13. Rather, the air and/or liquid tight seal may provide a means for the liquid in the dispenser cartridge 13 to be pulled out of the cartridge.

[0052] According to certain aspects of the present invention, the dispenser cartridge 13 may be configured to be installed within the dispenser compartment 12 with the spout at a bottom position. This may allow all of the liquid contained therein to be usable or accessible. The one or more fluid lines 22 may be positioned on a connection plate at a bottom point in the dispenser compartment 12, and the dispenser cartridge 13 may be attachable in this inverted position (spout down) in a manner that does not spill the liquid therein. Alternatively, the one or more fluid lines 22 may extend a distance from the dispenser compartment 12 so that a connection with the dispenser cartridge 13 may be made with the spout in an upright position, and once a connection is made, the dispenser cartridge 13 may be positioned inside of the dispenser compartment 12 in an inverted position (spout down).

[0053] The liquid that may be provided by the liquid dispensing system may be a liquid soap, such as a dish washing detergent. The liquid may be provided in single use disposable pouches or containers, or multiple use refillable pouches or containers, which are configured to fit within the dispenser compartment 12. The soap may be any standard soap, or may be a concentrated soap. Concentrated liquid soaps offer the advantage that they are much more efficient to use and less contaminating to the environment. Further, the overall cost is less because of the greatly reduced volume and weight affecting manufacturing, shipping, and storage. [0054] In certain embodiments, the system may further comprise a pump, which may pump the liquid from the dispenser cartridge 13 through the one or more fluid lines 22 to exit from the faucet spout 24. The pump may be positioned in the faucet body, or may be included as a component which is positioned beneath the counter surface on which the sink is installed. The pump may be mechanical or electrical and may be sealed from contact with the liquid, or may be in fluid communication with the liquid. Further, the pump may be connected to one or both of the dispenser cartridge and the one or more fluid lines. Alternatively, a vacuum generated by the flow of water through the water lines may provide the pumping action which draws the liquid from the dispenser cartridge 13 through the one or more fluid lines 22.

[0055] As detailed herein, the system can operate mechanically, without the use of electricity. Alternatively, the system may be powered, particularly when a pump is included, and may be configured to include specific control logic implemented in software or hardware or a combination of both. For example, particular embodiments can be implemented by using application specific integrated circuits or programmed logic circuits. In general, the functions of particular embodiments can be achieved by any suitable means known in the art. Communication or transfer of data or instructions may be wired, wireless, or by any other suitable means. Also, elements of the inventive embodiments can be enabled or disabled as is useful in accordance with a particular application.

[0056] In use, depressing or activating the dispensing button 18 may cause the liquid to be drawn from the dispenser cartridge 13 through the one or more fluid lines 22 for delivery from the faucet spout 24.

[0057] As disclosed herein, the system of the present invention is configured to dispense a liquid from a liquid dispensing cartridge. While the liquid has been described as a liquid soap, other liquids, such as conditioners, sanitizers, etc. are within the scope of the present invention.

[0058] Each of the characteristics and examples described above, and combinations thereof, may be said to be encompassed by the present invention. The present invention is thus drawn to the following non-limiting aspects:

[0059] (1) A faucet integrated liquid dispensing system comprising a faucet and a liquid dispenser system, the faucet comprising a faucet body, a spout for dispensing water from the faucet body, and a dispenser compartment positioned within an interior of the faucet body; and the liquid dispenser system comprising a dispenser cartridge configured to contain a liquid and positionable within the dispenser compartment, one or more fluid lines each having a distal end configured to provide fluid communication with the dispenser cartridge and a proximal end in fluid communication with an outlet of the spout, and a dispenser button positioned on the faucet wherein the dispenser button is configured to initiate dispensing of the liquid from the dispenser cartridge through the outlet of the spout.

[0060] (2) The system according to aspect 1 , wherein the faucet comprises a spray head comprising the spout and positioned at an end of the faucet body.

[0061] (3) The system according to aspect 2, wherein the dispenser button is positioned on the spray head.

[0062] (4) the system according to any of aspects 2 to 3, wherein the spray head is a pull- out spray head, and wherein the one or more fluid lines comprises a slack length that permits the pull-out spray head to be pulled away from the faucet body while remaining fluidly coupled to the dispenser cartridge.

[0063] (5) The system according to any of aspects 1 to 4, wherein the one or more fluid lines comprise a first connection means at a distal end thereof, and the dispenser cartridge comprises a second connection means.

[0064] (6) The system according to aspect 5, wherein the first connection means comprises one of a male or female luer connector, and the second connection means comprises the other of the male or female luer connector.

[0065] (7) The system according to any of aspects 1 to 6, wherein the liquid comprises a concentrated liquid soap.

[0066] (8) The system according to any of aspects 1 to 7, wherein the dispenser cartridge is disposable or is refillable.

[0067] (9) The system according to any of aspects 1 to 8, wherein the dispenser cartridge is a flexible pouch having a sealable port.

[0068] (10) The system according to aspect 9, wherein the sealable port comprises a second connection means. [0069] (11) The system according to aspect 10, wherein the distal ends of the one or more fluid lines comprise a first connection means which is attachable to the second connection means of the sealable port on the dispenser cartridge.

[0070] (12) The system according to aspect 11, wherein attachment between the first and second connection means provides a liquid tight seal.

[0071] (13) The system according to any of aspects 1 to 12, wherein the dispenser cartridge comprises a cartridge spout positioned at a top of the pouch, on a corner of the pouch, or on a side of the pouch.

[0072] (14) The system according to any of aspects 1 to 13, wherein the pouch is composed of a plastic material, a paper material, a metal material, or combinations thereof.

[0073] (15) The system according to any of aspects 1 to 14, wherein the system uses a vacuum provided by a flow of water from the faucet to dispense the liquid from the dispenser cartridge through the outlet of the spout.

[0074] (16) The system according to any of aspects 1 to 14, further comprising a pump for pumping the liquid from the dispenser cartridge out of the outlet of the spout via the one or more fluid lines.

[0075] (17) The system according to aspect 16, wherein the pump is positioned within the faucet body.

[0076] (18) The system according to aspect 16, wherein the pump is positioned external to the faucet body.

[0077] (19) The system according to any of aspects 16 to 18, wherein the pump comprises a mechanical pump or an electrical pump.

[0078] (20) The system according to any of aspects 1 to 19, wherein the faucet further comprises a door positioned on the faucet body and configured to provide access to the dispenser compartment.

[0079] (21) The system according to aspect 20, wherein the door comprises a hinge.

[0080] (22) The system according to any of aspects 20 to 21, wherein the door is configured and designed to remain flush on the faucet body. [0081] (23) The system according to any of aspects 20 to 22, wherein the door is spring loaded to remain in the closed position.

[0082] (24) The system according to any of aspects 20 to 22, wherein the door is spring loaded to open and includes a concealed push-to-open latch.

[0083] (25) The system according to any of aspects 1 to 24, wherein the dispenser button initiates dispensing of the liquid from the dispenser cartridge with a flow of water from the spout of the faucet.

[0084] (26) A faucet integrated liquid dispensing system comprising a faucet and a liquid dispenser system, the faucet comprising a faucet body, a spout for dispensing water from the faucet body, and a dispenser compartment positioned within an interior of the faucet body; and the liquid dispenser system comprising one or more fluid lines each having a distal end positioned within the dispenser compartment and a proximal end in fluid communication with an outlet of the spout, and a dispenser button positioned on the faucet body wherein the dispenser button is configured to initiate flow of a fluid between the distal and proximal ends of the one or more fluid lines.

[0085] (27) The system according to aspect 26, further comprising a dispenser cartridge configured to contain a liquid and positionable within the dispenser compartment, wherein the distal ends of the one or more fluid lines are attachable to the dispenser cartridge and provide fluid communication between the fluid cartridge and the outlet of the spout.

[0086] (28) The system according to any of aspects 26 to 27, further comprising a pump for pumping the fluid from the dispenser cartridge out of the outlet of the spout via the one or more fluid lines.

[0087] (29) A disposable dispenser cartridge comprising at least two sidewalls composed of a flexible material and defining an enclosed interior compartment; a concentrated liquid soap contained within the enclosed interior compartment; and at least one inlet providing access to the concentrated liquid soap contained within the enclosed interior compartment, the at least one inlet comprising a second connection means configured to provide connection with a first connection means at the distal end of the one or more fluid lines of the faucet integrated liquid dispensing system of Claim 16. [0088] (30) The disposable dispenser cartridge according to aspect 29, wherein the first connection means comprises one of a male or female luer connector, and the second connection means comprises the other of the male or female luer connector.

[0089] While specific embodiments of the invention have been described in detail, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications and alternations and applications could be developed in light of the overall teachings of the disclosure. Accordingly, the particular arrangements, systems, apparatuses, and methods disclosed are meant to be illustrative only and not limiting as to the scope of the invention.