Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02708061 2012-06-11
FAUCET MOUNTING SLEEVE
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
Embodiments of the present invention are generally related to devices for
securing faucets, or other fluid delivery devices, to a building surface. More
specifically,
a mounting assembly is used in conjunction with securing a faucet to an uneven
exterior
surface of a dwelling.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Wall faucets are very common and often found mounted to the exterior of a
dwelling to be used for supplying water outside of the dwelling. Wall faucets
include a
faucet assembly with a flange that is designed to interconnect to an exterior
surface of a
dwelling. The wall faucet assembly also includes a tube that is in fluidic
communication
with the water source of the dwelling. Traditionally, the flanges have been
mounted to
an exterior surface, i.e. siding of the dwelling. Siding, however, is not the
only exterior
building surface employed, and as such, often the wall faucet assembly
interconnection
must accommodate the uneven surface texture of stone, brick, mortar, stucco
etc. One
skilled in the art will appreciate that it is difficult to interconnect the
flange of the faucet
to non-continuous building surfaces. One prior art method of installing a
faucet employs
a plurality of elongated screws that interconnect the faucet flange to the
wall. Long
screws, however, are unstable and provide little support to the faucet. For
example, one
skilled in the art can envision that a hose interconnected to the faucet is
subject to forces
associated with moving or pulling the hose. These forces may be associated
with
weakening of the interconnection of the faucet to the dwelling and may cause
the faucet
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to dislocate from the exterior building surface. Thus, faucet assemblies that
are
interconnected to such non-continuous and uneven building surfaces are often
not very
structurally stable. If a faucet assembly should separate from the dwelling,
fluid (i.e.,
water), insects, or other outdoor contaminants will be able to enter the
dwelling. If the
faucet assembly is unstable it could also separate from the fluid supply line,
thereby
causing water/mold damage.
Furthermore, during installation of a faucet assembly, to an exterior building
surface an installer must grout or otherwise seal the interconnection location
to
accommodate the uneven building surface. This additional work increases the
time and
cost of installation.
There have been devices in the prior art that are used to offset a faucet from
an
interior building surface to accommodate a brick surface. For example,
attention is
drawn to the hose bib supporter of PerfectSett made by JCT Innovations, LLC.
This
device includes a rectangular shaped face that is offset from a plate that is
interconnected
to the outer surface of the wall, board or sheathing of a building. The face
provides a
location for interconnection of a faucet assembly. One drawback of the
PerfectSett
device is that it does not provide selective adjustments and only accommodates
exterior
building surfaces of a set thickness.
Thus, it is a long felt need in the field of outdoor plumbing to provide a
stable
interconnection scheme for attaching wall faucets to the exterior surface of a
dwelling.
The following disclosure describes an improved method and system for
interconnecting a
wall faucet to the exterior of a building that addresses and overcomes the
problems
experienced in the prior art.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is one aspect of the present invention to provide a mounting box that
supports a
faucet assembly. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention
employ a
mounting sleeve that is associated with a fluid delivery tube that terminates
at a faucet.
The mounting sleeve is interconnected to at least one supporting bracket. The
bracket is
adapted for interconnection to an interior building surface, which increases
the stability
of the interconnection of the faucet assembly to the dwelling. The mounting
sleeve is
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adapted to secure the fluid delivery tube and to provide a location for
interconnection of
the faucet. Embodiments of the present invention employ a mounting sleeve that
is
selectively adjustable such that a flange of the faucet, which traditionally
is used to
secure the faucet to an exterior building surface, may be placed generally
adjacent to the
outer surface of the dwelling and not interconnected directly to it.
Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a system for mounting a
wall
faucet to a building that increases the stability of the interconnection of
the faucet to the
building. More specifically, as opposed to prior art methods of
interconnecting a wall
faucet assembly to a dwelling, embodiments of the present invention employ one
or more
brackets that are interconnected to an interior (or exterior) building
surface. For example,
the brackets of the invention may be interconnected to the inside or outside
of any
building member, such as 2 X 4 studs, sill plates, a concrete basement wall, a
foundation
member, headers, sheathing, etc. Interconnecting the brackets to a structural
element
improves the structurally stability of the faucet assembly. That is, as
opposed to prior art
systems, which interconnect a the faucet flange directly to an exterior
building surface,
the mounting sleeve employed in various embodiments of the present invention
is held
within the brackets, thus supplying a sufficient support to the faucet
assembly. In such a
manner the above-identified issues related to interconnecting a faucet to
mortar, rock,
stone, bricks, stucco, etc., are reduced if not eliminated. The method and
associated
apparatus of the present invention for securing a tube within mounting sleeve,
which is
then interconnected to a rigidly interconnected bracket, is superior over
prior art methods
and system of interconnection.
It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a mounting system and
methods that allow for robust installation. More specifically, embodiments of
the present
invention may be installed prior to or after the siding or other exterior
building surface is
installed. The brackets that secure the mounting sleeve may be installed by
the framers,
siding installers or plumbers. Guess work as to the location of the faucet is
thus reduced.
This aspect of the present invention is made possible by the fact that the
faucet does not
need to be initially installed in order to install the bracket and to locate
the mounting
sleeve. After installation of the mounting sleeve, the mounting sleeve may be
removed
from the bracket and associated with the tube of the faucet, for example.
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It is still yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a mounting
system
and method that provides the ability to selectively adjust the location of the
faucet. More
specifically, embodiments of the present invention provide a mounting sleeve
that is
adapted to move in relation to the fixed bracket. A second bracket is employed
to secure
the mounting sleeve relative to the fixed bracket such that no additional
movement of the
mounting sleeve is possible. This aspect of the invention ultimately allows
for the flange
of the faucet to be offset (in various dimensions, but particularly along an
axis
perpendicular from the dwelling wall) from an interior or exterior wall of the
dwelling to
accommodate the thickness and surface texture of exterior building material
such as
stone, etc. In operation, if the faucet is not located as envisioned relative
to the exterior
building surface, quick readjustments are possible that do not require
extensive structural
modifications as would be necessary with prior art systems.
It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a faucet assembly
attachment scheme that improves mounting options, wherein the faucet may be
interconnected to an irregular surface easily. That is, as briefly described
above, the
mounting device of one embodiment of the present invention includes an
adjustable
mounting sleeve that allows for selective adjustments of the location of the
faucet flange,
i.e. within a predetermined scope of dimensions from a first anticipated final
position.
Thus an installer can easily customize the location of the flange such that it
be
aesthetically pleasing and structurally stable. Embodiments of the present
invention also
employ a mounting sleeve with a measurement indication mechanism. Preferably,
a
linear scale is provided associated with each sleeve, e.g. imprinted thereon,
molded
thereto, etc., to facilitate the installation of a plurality of faucets about
the exterior of a
building. After one mounting sleeve is interconnected and correctly offset
from a house,
the remainder of mounting sleeves will be more quickly installed since the
required offset
is readily known by inspection of the linear scale. Installers will also be
able to facilitate
installation of mounting sleeves through experience by knowing generally how
much
offset should be used for a particular building surface, which will reduce
time and cost of
installing faucets.
Embodiments of the present invention employ components that can be easily
replaced. For example, if after installing the mounting sleeve relative to the
bracket it is
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found that the offset is incorrect, it is contemplated that quick adjustments
may be made.
More specifically, it is contemplated that the length of the mounting sleeve
can easily
made in order to accommodate unique sizes of bricks, stone, etc. If this is
difficult due,
for example, to debris or grout residing in the grooves of the mounting sleeve
the
mounting sleeve can be discarded and a second replacement mounting sleeve can
be
interconnected to the bracket.
It is yet another aspect of the present invention to prevent water, debris,
animals,
insects, etc. from entering the dwelling through the faucet connection. That
is, when a
faucet of the prior art becomes loose or disconnects from the exterior of the
dwelling,
gaps form that allow the above-mentioned foreign objects to enter the
dwelling. For
example, gaps between the flange and the building surface allow moisture to
penetrate
between the faucet flange and the exterior building surfaces. Embodiments of
the present
invention provide a system and method that minimizes gaps between the external
building surface and the faucet associated thereto. More specifically, since
the mounting
sleeve of embodiments of the present invention is of generally continuous
shape
(preferably cylindrical, but other shapes are contemplated), the installer can
finish, with
insulation, foam, mortar etc., up to the outer surface of the mounting sleeve
thus reduces
or eliminates gaps between the faucet assembly and the exterior building
surfaces. A
related aspect of the present invention is that the shape of the mounting
sleeve and
described finishing creates a cleaner appearance that is more aesthetically
pleasing to the
eye.
It is another aspect of the present invention that the embodiments preferably
be
constructed of common materials, such as plastic, steel, aluminum, rubber (or
other
flexible materials), vulcanized rubber, wood, or any other common building
materials
that comply with applicable codes. Preferably, the mounting sleeve and
associated
brackets are made of rigid plastic, which is non-corrosive and provides the
needed
rigidity to secure the faucet assembly.
It is still yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a system
that
utilizes components that are easily customizable. More specifically, the
mounting
sleeves of embodiments of the present invention may be made of any color of
plastic to
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blend in with the finished materials, such as the faucet flange of a handle,
thereby adding
to the aesthetically pleasing appearance of the finished assembly.
It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a faucet mounting
system that efficiently utilizes pipes generally found in a dwelling. More
specifically,
faucet mounting schemes of the prior art generally require that the mounting
structure be
tied in some way to the sill plate, or other building member associated with
the
foundation or basement wall of a structure. Mounting a faucet in such a way
necessarily
requires routing (in often a circuitous path) of additional pipes from the
main water
supply line to the faucet. One of skill in the art will appreciate that with
such a routing
scheme the probability of leaks increases, and, if a leak should occur, it is
often located in
low traffic or little used areas of a dwelling (crawl space, basement, etc.).
Leaks of this
nature can be very damaging since a home owner, for example, will be prevented
from
quickly addressing the matter.
Thus, embodiments of the invention, due to their ability to be interconnected
to a
dwelling in areas other than the sill plate, can be placed in such a way to
omit the need of
a long and complex pipe routing scheme. Embodiments of the invention, for
example,
may be positioned away from the foundation near the water lines connected to a
kitchen
sink of a dwelling. Mounting a faucet in such away saves piping and
facilitates
construction. This mounting location also allows enhanced access to the
outside faucet
since individuals do not have to bend over as much to access the sill cock.
Associating
the mounting sleeve with existing pipes also has the advantage of allowing a
homeowner
to more quickly identify leak and freeze issues since the penetration and
pipes associated
with the outdoor faucet are located in high traffic and often used area of a
dwelling. The
location and pipe lengths contemplated also facilitate repair operations.
Further, due to
its proximity to an interior faucet, the mounting sleeves of embodiments of
the present
invention may be adapted to accommodate at least two pipes, one for hot water
and one
for cold, for example. Upon review of the figures provided herein one of skill
in the art
will appreciate that the mounting brackets employed can be sized to
accommodate more
than one mounting sleeve and/or a mounting sleeve that is interfaced to more
than one
fluid pipe.
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It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a mounting sleeve
that can
accommodate faucets having flanges of various shapes. More specifically, some
faucets
possess a handle that is laterally offset from the faucet outlet whereby
access to the
handle is improved. To further increase access and to remove obstructions
between the
faucet and the faucet outlet, the outlet may be angled as well such that the
flow of water
from the faucet outlet is at an angle relative to the vertical direction.
Faucets of these
type also may include an elliptical or oval handle that allows the user to
more easily grip
the handle and to add additional torque when turning. Thus, one embodiment of
the
present invention includes a flange interconnected to the mounting sleeve that
is adapted
to receive faucet flanges that are other than circular. More specifically, the
faucets
described above, often have an elongated flange to accommodate an enlarged
housing
wherein the faucet outlet and handle are interconnected thereto. Thus one can
appreciate
that a mounting sleeve having a circular flange would not adequately
accommodate this
enlarged flange thus embodiments of the present invention include an enlarged
flange of
any shape that is customizable to a faucet flange. It is a related aspect of
the invention to
provide a generic faucet flange that accommodates more than one type, make or
model
of faucet. Alternatively, one of skill in the art will appreciate that the
faucet flange may
be customized to fit only a specific faucet.
It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a faucet mounting
sleeve that is specifically designed for heavy duty applications. More
specifically, many
industrial faucets include heavy duty flanges and heavier and more bulky
faucet
components. These are often associated with concrete or metal walls and
require
additional bracing to maintain the heavier faucet and hoses that are
associated therewith
that are often pulled abruptly that could cause damage to the faucet. Thus one
embodiment of the present invention employs a mounting sleeve that includes a
flange
that accommodates the larger flanges generally employed by industrial faucets.
It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a mounting sleeve
that
does not employ a bracket to interconnect the same to a wall. More
specifically, some
embodiments of the present invention include a mounting sleeve having a
threaded outer
surface. A threaded outer surface would be situated around the faucet tube and
receive a
nut element that would sandwich the wall of the structure between the flange
of the
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mounting sleeve and the nut element. One skilled in the art will appreciate
that a sleeve
of this nature may not necessarily be threaded but may also include a ratchet
interconnection wherein the mounting sleeve includes a keyway that selectively
sees a
sliding element having at least one tooth, wherein rotation of the element
would lock the
element relative to the mounting sleeve. Such a connection scheme is shown,
for
example, in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0035064 to Kugler et
al., the
entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.
It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a sleeve that has
telescoping features. For example, one embodiment of the present invention
includes a
threaded outer sleeve and a threaded inner sleeve that interconnects to the
outer sleeve.
Of course, one of skill in the art will appreciate that the secondary
lengthening sleeve
may be situated outside of the primary sleeve that interconnects to the
faucet. Such
expandability allows for the combination of thicker walls by the mounting
sleeve.
Furthermore, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the telescoping
portions of the
sleeve may not be necessarily threaded, but may include other features, such
as an
interference fit or a keyway type connection, as described above, to achieve
the goal of
accommodating thicker walls.
It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a mounting system
that can
accommodate multiple fluid lines. More specifically, one embodiment of the
present
invention accommodates a faucet having a hot and cold water input. More
specifically,
it is often desirable to supply hot water, cold water, or a combination
thereof. Such
faucets include a hot water side and a cold water side that each include a
handle for
selectively opening a valve to supply the desired temperature of water. These
faucets
also may include a mixing chamber that allows for the selective alteration of
the
temperature of the water. Faucets of this nature include at least two input
lines, one
running to a hot water source and one running to a cold water source. In one
embodiment
of the present invention an elongated sleeve flange is employed that
accommodates at
least two mounting sleeves that are associated with each of the input lines.
In one
embodiment of the present invention, such sleeves include grooves and are
interconnected to a bracket as described above. One of skill in the art will
appreciate that
the mounting flange may include an elongated box or other housing emanating
therefrom
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that accommodates both the hot and cold water lines wherein a large hole is
drilled into
the wall. However, the preferred embodiment includes two distinct holes, as
such are
easily formed into a wall with drill bits of common sizes.
Accordingly, in one aspect the present invention resides in a faucet mounting
assembly adapted to secure a faucet assembly, comprising: a bottom bracket
having an
arcuate surface that is adapted to interconnect to an interior structure of a
dwelling; a first
cylindrical mounting sleeve having a first end, a second end, a top portion
with a
plurality of spaced grooves that are defined by equally-spaced and parallel
ridges, and a
smooth bottom surface, said first end associated with an elongated flange,
which is
adapted to receive and secure a non-circular faucet flange, said first
cylindrical mounting
sleeve being selectively engaged onto said arcuate surface of said bottom
bracket; a
second cylindrical mounting sleeve having first end, a second end, a top
portion with a
plurality of spaced grooves that are defined by equally-spaced and parallel
ridges, and a
smooth bottom surface, said first end being interconnected to said elongated
flange, said
second cylindrical mounting sleeve being selectively engaged onto said arcuate
surface
of said bottom bracket wherein said first cylindrical mounting sleeve and said
second
cylindrical mounting sleeve are capable of moving relative to said bottom
bracket to alter
the distance between said elongated flange and the interior structure; and a
top bracket
selectively interconnected to said bottom bracket wherein said first
cylindrical mounting
sleeve and said second cylindrical mounting sleeve are positioned
therebetween, said top
bracket being positioned within one of said plurality of spaced grooves of
said first
cylindrical mounting sleeve and within one of said plurality of spaced grooves
of said
second cylindrical mounting sleeve to substantially fill the same such that
said first
cylindrical mounting sleeve and said second cylindrical mounting sleeve are
secured
relative to said bottom bracket and said top bracket such that substantial
movement of
said first cylindrical mounting sleeve and said second cylindrical mounting
sleeve in a
direction parallel to their longitudinal axes is prevented.
In another aspect the present invention resides in a faucet mounting assembly
adapted to secure a faucet assembly, comprising: a bottom bracket adapted for
interconnection to a dwelling; a first mounting sleeve associated with said
bottom
bracket; a second mounting sleeve associated with said bottom bracket; a top
bracket
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selectively interconnected to said bottom bracket with said first mounting
sleeve and said
second mounting sleeve positioned therebetween.
In a further aspect the present invention resides in a fluid delivery system
interconnected to a structure, comprising: a faucet assembly that includes a
faucet with
an associated non-circular faucet flange and a first fluid delivery tube and a
second fluid
delivery tube in communication with said faucet; a first mounting sleeve
having a first
end interconnected to said non-circular faucet flange and a second end that
receives said
first fluid delivery tube, said first mounting sleeve also including a
plurality of spaced
grooves that are defined by equally-spaced and parallel ridges, and a smooth
bottom
surface; a second mounting sleeve having a first end interconnected to said
non-circular
faucet flange and a second end that receives said second fluid delivery tube,
said second
mounting sleeve also including a plurality of spaced grooves that are defined
by equally-
spaced and parallel ridges, and a smooth bottom surface; a bottom bracket
interconnected
to an interior surface of the structure; and a top bracket selectively
interconnected to said
bottom bracket with said mounting sleeve positioned therebetween wherein said
top
bracket is positioned within and substantially filling one groove of the
plurality thereof
of said first mounting sleeve and said second mounting sleeve.
The Summary of the Invention is neither intended nor should it be construed as
being representative of the full extent and scope of the present invention.
The present
invention is set forth in various levels of detail in the Summary of the
Invention as well
as in the attached drawings and the Detailed Description of the Invention and
no
limitation as to the scope of the present invention is intended by either the
inclusion or
non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in this Summary of the Invention.
Additional aspects of the present invention will become more readily apparent
from the
Detail Description, particularly when taken together with the drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of
the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with
the general
description of the invention given above and the detailed description of the
drawings
given below, serve to explain the principles of these inventions.
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Fig. 1 is a front perspective view of a faucet mounting assembly of one
embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 2 is an exploded rear perspective view of the faucet mounting assembly of
Fig. 1 interconnected to a wall;
Fig. 3 is a front perspective view of a faucet assembly positioned in the
faucet
mounting assembly of one embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 4 is a front perspective view of a faucet assembly secured by a faucet
mounting assembly positioned adjacent to an exterior building surface;
Fig. 5 is a rear perspective view of a faucet assembly secured by a faucet
mounting assembly positioned adjacent to an exterior building surface;
Fig. 6 is a side cross-sectional view of a faucet assembly secured by a faucet
mounting assembly positioned adjacent to an exterior building surface;
Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the mounting sleeve of one embodiment of the
invention;
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Fig. 8 is a top plan view of Fig. 7;
Fig. 9 is front elevation view of Fig. 7;
Fig. 10 is a left elevation view of Fig. 9 showing a flange of the mounting
sleeve;
Fig. 11 is a right elevation view of Fig. 9;
Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of Fig. 10;
Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view of Fig. 12;
Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view of Fig. 10;
Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a bottom bracket of one embodiment of the
present invention;
Fig. 16 is a front elevation view of the bottom bracket shown in Fig. 15;
Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the bottom bracket shown Fig. 16;
Fig. 18 is a perspective view of a top bracket of one embodiment of the
present
invention;
Fig. 19 is a front elevation view of the top bracket shown in Fig. 18;
Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view of Fig. 19;
Fig. 21 is a top plan view of Fig. 19;
Fig. 22 is a perspective view of a tube rest employed by some embodiments of
the
present invention;
Fig. 23 is a front elevation view of Fig. 22;
Fig. 24 is a perspective view of a faucet mounting assembly of another
embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 25 is a rear perspective view of the embodiment of the present invention
shown in Fig. 24;
Fig. 26 is a perspective view of a faucet mounting assembly of another
embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 27 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a faucet mounting
assembly similar to that shown in Fig. 26;
Fig. 28 is a perspective view of a faucet mounting assembly of another
embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 29 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a mounting sleeve;
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Fig. 30 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the present
invention
wherein a generally rectangular mounting sleeve is employed;
Fig. 31 is a rear perspective view of the embodiment of the present invention
shown in Fig. 30;
Fig. 32 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the faucet
mounting
assembly similar to that shown in Fig. 30; and
Fig. 33 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the faucet
mounting
assembly similar that shown in Fig. 30;
Fig. 34 is a front elevation view of a faucet used in conjunction with another
embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 35 is a rear perspective view of a faucet mounting assembly of another
embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 36 is a rear elevation view of Fig. 35;
Fig. 37 is a side elevation view of Fig. 35;
Fig. 38 is a cross-sectional view of Fig. 37;
Fig. 39 is a front perspective view showing the faucet mounting assembly of
Fig.
35 associated with an interior wall of a dwelling;
Fig. 40 is a front perspective view similar to that of Fig. 39 wherein
exterior
building material has been added to the wall;
Fig. 41 is a rear perspective view of Fig. 40;
Fig. 42 is a rear perspective view of Fig 40 wherein a bottom bracket is shown
associated with the mounting sleeve;
Fig. 43 is a rear perspective view of Fig. 40 wherein a top bracket and bottom
bracket has been associated with the mounting sleeve and the wall;
Fig. 44 is a top plan view of Fig. 40 wherein some of the exterior building
material has been omitted for clarity;
Fig. 45 is a front perspective view of a mounting sleeve of another embodiment
of
the present invention that is designed to accommodate industrial faucets;
Fig. 46 is a rear exploded perspective view of the mounting sleeve shown in
Fig.
45;
Fig. 47 is top plan view of the mounting sleeve shown in Fig. 45;
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Fig. 48 is a side elevation view of the mounting sleeve shown in Fig. 45;
Fig. 49 is a front perspective view of the mounting sleeve shown in Fig. 45
incorporated to a wall;
Fig. 50 is a rear perspective view of the mounting sleeve shown in Fig. 45
incorporated to a wall;
Fig. 51 is a front perspective view of a mounting sleeve of another embodiment
of
the present invention that is designed to accommodate industrial faucets;
Fig. 52 is a rear exploded perspective view of the mounting sleeve shown in
Fig.
51;
Fig. 53 is top plan view of the mounting sleeve shown in Fig. 51;
Fig. 54 is a side elevation view of the mounting sleeve shown in Fig. 51;
Fig. 55 is a front perspective view of the mounting sleeve shown in Fig. 51;
incorporated to a wall;
Fig. 56 is a rear perspective view of the mounting sleeve shown in Fig. 51;
incorporated to a wall;
Fig. 57 is a front perspective view of a mounting sleeve of another embodiment
of
the present invention that employs a nut element;
Fig. 58 is a rear exploded perspective view of the mounting sleeve shown in
Fig
57;
Fig. 59 is a front elevation view of the mounting sleeve of Fig. 57
incorporated
into a wall;
Fig. 60 is a front perspective view of Fig. 59;
Fig. 61 is a rear perspective view of Fig. 59;
Fig. 62 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention
that
utilizes a telescoping mounting sleeve;
Fig. 63 is a rear exploded perspective view of the mounting sleeve shown in
62;
Fig. 64 is a top elevation view of the mounting sleeve shown in Fig. 63;
Fig. 65 is a front cross-sectional view of the mounting sleeve shown in Fig.
62;
Fig. 66 is a front elevation view of the mounting sleeve of Fig. 62
incorporated
into a wall;
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Fig. 67 is a rear elevation view of the mounting sleeve of Fig. 62
incorporated
into a wall;
Fig. 68 is a front perspective view of a dual mounting sleeve;
Fig. 69 is a top plan view of Fig. 68;
Fig. 70 is a rear perspective view of Fig. 68;
Fig. 71 is a rear plan view of Fig. 68;
Fig. 72 is a side elevation view of Fig. 68;
Fig. 73 is an exploded view of Fig. 68;
Fig. 74 shows the embodiment of Fig. 68 incorporated into a wall with
associated
exterior; and
Fig. 75 is a side elevation view of Fig. 74.
To assist in the understanding of the present invention the following list of
components and associated numbering found in the drawings is provided herein:
# Component # Component # Component
2 Faucet mounting 82 Tongue 166 Valve
assembly
6 Mounting sleeve 86 Aperture 170 Screw
10 Bottom bracket 90 Orientation arrow 174 Boss
14 Top bracket 94 Alignment mark 178 Housing
18 Faucet 98 Channel 182 Recess
22 Tube 102 Aperture 186 Threaded sleeve
26 Tube rest 106 Protrusion 190 Nut element
32 Mortar 110 Tube resting surface 194 Plate
30 Wall 114 Bracket 198 Pins
34 Fastener 118 Plate 200 Nut element
38 Exterior building 122 Pin 202 Stem
material
42 Sleeve flange 126 Tab 206 Hot water
46 Faucet flange 130 Slot 210 Cold water inlet
50 Groove 134 Dimple 214 Hot water inlet
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# Component # Component # Component
54 Front opening 138 Pin 215 Seal
58 Aperture 142 Stud 216 Groove
62 Offset indicator 146 Spine 218 Pocket
66 Slot 150 Threads 222 Anchor plate
70 Orientation 154 Hook 226 Key
arrow
74 Boss 158 Handle 230 Anchor bolts
78 Mounting sleeve 162 Outlet 234 Nut
rest
It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale, but
that
relative dimensions can be nevertheless be determined thereby. In certain
instances,
details that are not necessary for an understanding of the invention or that
render other
details difficult to perceive may have been omitted. It should be understood,
of course,
that the invention is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments
illustrated
herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring now to Figs. 1-33, a faucet mounting assembly 2 of one embodiment of
the present invention is provided that includes a mounting sleeve 6 that is
selectively
interconnected to a bottom bracket 10. The mounting sleeve 6 is held in place
relative to
the bottom bracket 10 by a top bracket 14. In operation, a faucet 18 and
associated tube
22 are designed to interface with the mounting sleeve 6, thereby securing the
faucet 18 to
a dwelling. A tube rest 26 is interconnected to a rear portion of the mounting
sleeve 6
that supports and angles the tube 22 such that drainage is facilitated which
prevents
freezing. Embodiments of the present invention are designed to interconnect to
an
interior wall 30 of a building via a plurality of fasteners 34, thus creating
a stable
interconnection between the faucet assembly (i.e., the faucet 18 and tube 22)
over the
interconnection schemes employed by the prior art. In operation, the bottom
bracket 10
14
CA 02708061 2010-06-16
is interconnected to the wall 30 and mounting sleeve 6 is selectively
positioned relative
thereto to accommodate variations of an exterior building surface 38. Once a
desirable
length is achieved, the top bracket 14 is associated with the bottom bracket
10 to fix the
mounting sleeve 6 in place. As will be shown and/or described, the mounting
sleeve 6
may be of multiple pieces that are interference fit together or the mounting
sleeve may
possess a combination of grooves, threads and/or interference fits to provide
a robust
scheme of selective offsets to accommodate any type of building surface.
Further, the
sleeve may be easily shortened by sawing or the inclusion of break-away
points, for
example, that allow selective reduction in length.
Referring now to Fig. 1, the faucet mounting assembly 2 of one embodiment of
the present invention is provided. Here, the mounting sleeve 6 is
substantially cylindrical
and is positioned between the bottom bracket 10 and the top bracket 14. The
bottom
bracket 10 is designed to support the mounting sleeve 6 and the top bracket 14
is
designed to maintain the mounting sleeve 6 in a fixed location relative to the
bottom
bracket 10. A front surface of the mounting sleeve 6 includes a sleeve flange
42 that is
adapted to receive and secure a faucet flange. The sleeve flange 42 may be
selectively
interconnected to the mounting sleeve 6.
Referring now to Figs. 2-6, the faucet mounting assembly 2 of embodiments of
the present invention are shown interconnected to a wall 30 of the dwelling.
Here, the
wall 30, be it wood or concrete, is drilled through to accommodate the
mounting sleeve 6.
The mounting sleeve 6 is then inserted through the hole provided through the
wall 30.
The bottom bracket 10 is then brought up to provide support to the mounting
sleeve 6 and
to provide a location for the interconnection of a top bracket 14. One of
skill in the art
will appreciate that the bottom bracket 10 may be installed prior to
installation of the
mounting sleeve 6. Further, the bottom bracket 10 may be interconnected to the
wall 30
prior to drilling therethrough to function as a hole location device. The top
bracket 14 of
embodiments of the present invention is then slid onto the bottom bracket 10
and both
brackets are secured to the wall 30. One of skill in the art will appreciate
that the
mounting sleeve may be secured within a bracket positioned therearound wherein
the
mounting sleeve is held in place by a bar that is associated with the bracket
and that
engages the mounting sleeve.
CA 02708061 2010-06-16
Prior to adding exterior surface materials 20 to a building (or after), the
faucet 18
is interconnected to the sleeve flange 42 and the tube 22 is inserted into the
mounting
sleeve 6. Embodiments of the present invention reduce the chance of the faucet
18 being
installed upside down since the sleeve flange 42 of the mounting sleeve 6
includes
features that match the faucet flange 46. The mounting sleeve 6, top bracket
14 and
bottom bracket 10 may include indicia as well to insure the correct
installation of the
mounting sleeve.
The tube rest 26 is selectively interconnected to the rear end of the mounting
sleeve 6. The tube rest 26 provides the proper offset from a center axis of
the mounting
sleeve 6 such that the tube 22 preferably positioned at an angle (a), which
will be shown
succinctly below in Fig. 6. The angle (a) of the tube 22 allows for water
therein to drain
from the faucet 18, thereby reducing the chances of freeze damage. Tube rests
26 of
other embodiments of the present invention may be integral to the mounting
sleeve 6.
With specific reference to Figs. 4-6, the bottom bracket 10 may be directly
interconnected to the wall 30. As shown herein, a plurality of external
building surfaces
38, such as bricks, are positioned about the exterior surface of the mounting
sleeve 6.
These figures illustrate the above-mentioned aspect of the invention wherein
the
mounting sleeve 6 may be positioned relative to the bottom bracket 10, and
wall 30, to
accommodate such irregular building surfaces 38. After the top bracket 14 is
installed,
which locks the mounting sleeve 6 in place, mortar 32 or other finishing
materials may be
placed in the gap between the mounting sleeve 6 and the exterior building
surface 38 to
provide an aesthetically pleasing look. Although the mounting sleeve 6 has
been shown
thus far as cylindrical, one skilled in the art will appreciate that it may be
prismatic with a
square or rectangular profile. This profile may better suit applications
wherein brick is
employed, for example, wherein brick and/or mortar may be directly
interconnected to
the mounting sleeve 6. The mounting sleeve 6 may be made as large as a brick
and may
be any size to accommodate any building surface 38 or faucet 18 configuration.
Referring now specifically to Fig. 6, a cross-sectional view of the faucet
mounting
assembly 2 is shown. Here, it is succinctly shown how the top bracket 14 and
bottom
bracket 10 are interconnected to the interior wall 30 of a dwelling, thereby
providing
increased rigidity. As mentioned above, the prior art interconnection schemes
would
16
CA 02708061 2010-06-16
simply interconnect the faucet flange 46 directly to the exterior surface 38,
such as
mortar, which is a less than ideal interconnection material. It is also shown
in Fig. 6 that
the tube rest 26 supports the tube 22 such that an angle (a) is provided that
allows for
water trapped within the tube 22 to drain from the faucet 18 after water is
shut off.
Although shown herein, a brick exterior building material 38 is shown, one
skilled in the
art will appreciate that embodiments of the present invention are adapted to
be used with
various types of building components, such as stone, mortar, stucco, hay,
siding,
corrugated steel, etc. That is, the mounting sleeve 6 is adapted to move
relative to the
bottom bracket 10 and top bracket 14 and be selectively locked into place,
thereby
providing a sufficient offset to accommodate any uneven exterior building
material 38.
After installation is complete, an installer may add mortar or other materials
between the
exterior building surfaces 38 and the mounting sleeve 6 to provide an
aesthetically
pleasing visual assembly.
Referring now to Figs. 7-14, a mounting sleeve of one embodiment of the
present
invention is shown. The mounting sleeve of one embodiment of the present
invention is
cylindrical wherein a plurality of grooves 50 are positioned on at least an
upper surface
thereof. The grooves 50 are adapted to receive a portion of the top bracket,
thereby
preventing axial motion of the mounting sleeve 6 after installation. The
faucet and
associated tube are threaded through a front opening 54 positioned in the
sleeve flange
42. The mounting sleeve 6 includes at least one aperture 48 that receive
fasteners that
interconnect the faucet flange onto the sleeve flange 42 of the mounting
sleeve 6. The
mounting sleeve 6 may also include an offset indication device 62, preferably,
embossed
or raised numerals or alpha numeric characters that allow for an installer to
gauge the
distance between the sleeve flange 42 and the top and bottom brackets. The
mounting
sleeve 6 also includes a slot 66 positioned adjacent to its rear end to
receive the tube rest.
Referring now specifically to Fig. 10, the sleeve flange 42 of the mounting
sleeve
6 is shown. The sleeve flange 6 is designed to generally match the faucet
flange, thereby
reducing incorrect orientations. The sleeve flange 42 may also include
orientation arrows
70 to ensure that the mounting sleeve 6 is oriented in the proper fashion.
Referring now to Figs. 12-14, cross-sectional views of the mounting sleeve 6
are
shown. Here, a plurality of bosses 74 are provided that are associated with
the apertures
17
CA 02708061 2010-06-16
58 positioned in the sleeve flange. The bosses 74 may be threaded or
unthreaded and are
designed to receive fasteners that interconnect the faucet flange to the
mounting sleeve 6.
The slots 66 are also provided adjacent to the rear end of the mounting sleeve
6. The
slots 66 are adapted to receive a protrusion of a tube rest, which will be
explained in
further detail below. The mounting sleeve 6 may be of any diameter to fit any
size tube.
In addition, additional internal walls may be provided to further support the
tube.
Alternatively insulation, i.e. expandable foam, may be added into the mounting
sleeve 6
after the tube is inserted to firmly associate the tube with the mounting
sleeve 6.
It is contemplated that the mounting sleeve may be made in more than one
piece.
More specifically, embodiments of the present invention employ a two-piece
mounting
sleeve 6 that includes one portion that comprises the slot 66 for receiving
the tube rest.
The other portion would accommodate the faucet flange. The flange portion that
receives
the flange faucet may be capable of an angular or axial adjustment with
respect to the
portion that is supported by the brackets. The portions may be interconnected,
via heat
welding, threaded interconnection, or interference fit. Further, the length of
the mounting
sleeve 6 is arbitrary and can be customized for any application.
Preferably the mounting sleeve 6 of one embodiment of the present invention is
cylindrical and about 6 inches long and about 2.5 inch diameter. The bosses 74
integrated in the mounting sleeve 6 are approximately 1.3 inches deep with a
center bore
of about 1.2 inches deep that have a radius of about 0.15 inches. The grooves
50 of one
embodiment of the present invention are 0.16 inches wide and may include an
about .5
degree draft, and are equally spaced along the length of at least an upper
portion of the
mounting sleeve 6. Embodiments of the present invention employ grooves that
are about
0.097 inches deep.
Referring now to Figs. 15-17, the bottom bracket 10 of one embodiment of the
present invention is shown. The bottom bracket 10 includes an arcuate (in the
case of a
cylindrical mounting sleeve) mounting sleeve rest 78. The mounting sleeve rest
78
surface includes an about 180 degree arc that leads into a pair of inwardly
positioned
tongues 82 that are adapted to receive the top bracket, which will be
described in further
detail below. The bottom bracket 10 also includes a plurality of apertures 86
for the
receipt of fasteners for interconnection to the wall. Further, the bottom
bracket 10
18
CA 02708061 2010-06-16
includes an orientation arrow 70, or other device for indicating the proper
positioning of
the bottom bracket 10 during installation. The bottom bracket 10 may also
include at
least one alignment mark 94 which helps locate the hole to be drilled in the
wall.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the bottom bracket 10 is about 3.8
inches high and 3.8 inches wide. The apertures 86 possess an about 0.180
diameter for
receiving a fastener. The apertures 86 are spaced about 3.3 inches in the
horizontal
direction and about 3.3 inches in the vertical direction. The mounting sleeve
rest is about
1.26 inches in radius.
Referring now to Figs. 18-21 the top bracket 14 of embodiments of the present
invention is shown that includes channels 98 that receive the tongues of the
bottom
bracket, thereby locking the top bracket 14 relative thereto. The top bracket
14 also
includes a surface that rests within the grooves of the mounting sleeve,
thereby
preventing the relative motion of the mounting sleeve after installation. The
top bracket
14 also includes at least one aperture 102 for the receipt of a fastener that
interconnects
the top bracket 14 to the wall.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the top bracket is about 1.9
inches
high and 2.75 inches wide. The surface that receives the groove has the radius
of about
1.16 inches. The channel, that receives the tongue of the bottom bracket is
about 0.7
inches wide.
Referring now to Figs. 22 and 23, the tube rest 26 of one embodiment of the
present invention is shown that includes a plurality of protrusions 106 that
fit into the
slots located in the mounting sleeve. To alter the angle (a) of the installed
tube, the
protrusions 106 and/or slots can be selectively increased or decreased in
thickness (j3).
For example, the greater the thickness ((3) of the protrusion, the greater the
tilt of the
installed tube. Another protrusion may be positioned on the bottom portion of
the tube
rest 26 to provide alignment that maintains the tube rest 26 in an
interconnective
relationship with the mounting sleeve. The tube rest 26 includes a resting
surface 110
that may be widened to enhance support of the installed tube.
Referring now to Figs. 24 and 25, yet another embodiment of the present
invention is shown that employs a mounting sleeve 6 similar to that described
above.
The bracket 114, however, is of a one-piece design that employs a plate 118.
The plate
19
CA 02708061 2010-06-16
118 is selectively interconnected to the bracket 114 to secure the mounting
sleeve 6. The
plate 118 may include a plurality of pins 122 that interface with tabs 126
positioned on
the bracket.
Referring now to Figs. 26 and 27, another embodiment of the present invention
is
shown that employs a mounting sleeve 6 with a longitudinal slot 130. The slot
130
further includes a plurality of dimples 134 or holes. The bracket 114 of this
embodiment
of the present invention includes a selectively adjustable pin 138 that
interfaces with a
dimple 134 to restrict the movement of the mounting sleeve 6 relative to the
bracket 114.
It is contemplated that the pin 138 be spring loaded, threaded into the
bracket 114, or
simply dropped into a dimple 134 to secure the mounting sleeve 6. Fig. 27,
specifically
shows an alternate embodiment of a bracket 114 that contacts a greater portion
of the
mounting sleeve 6, thereby providing additional stability. This elongated
bracket 114
also is adapted for interconnection to at least one stud 142.
Referring now to Fig. 28, the bracket shown in Fig. 27 is shown without the
pin.
More specifically, this embodiment of the present invention employs a mounting
sleeve 6
with a longitudinal spine 146. The function of the spine 146 is to interface
with an inner
portion of the bracket 114, thereby preventing rotation of the mounting sleeve
6. One
skilled in the art, however, will appreciate that the spine 146 does not need
to span the
entire length of the mounting sleeve 6 to perform its designed function. Upon
review of
the figure, one skilled in the art will appreciate that this version of the
mounting sleeve
includes no screws thus maybe axially altered.
Referring now to Fig. 29, an alternate embodiment of a mounting sleeve 6 is
shown that employs a threaded outer surface. It is envisioned that the threads
150 will
interface with threads provided on the bracket to allow adjustments of the
mounting
sleeve 6 relative to the bracket. It is also contemplated that this type of
mounting sleeve
6 may be incorporated with mounting sleeves previously described wherein the
threaded
mounting sleeve provides fine adjustments compared to the gross adjustments
provided
by a mounting sleeve with grooves, for example.
Referring now to Figs. 30-32, a mounting sleeve 6 having a generally
rectangular
or square cross section is provided. Here, the mounting sleeve 6 also includes
a plurality
of grooves 50 that interface with a bracket 114 to secure the mounting sleeves
relative
CA 02708061 2010-06-16
thereto. The tube rests 26 of these embodiments of the present invention may
include
hooks 154 that engage with the outer surface of the mounting sleeve 6. The
rectangular
mounting sleeve is shown associated with a horizontal/vertical studs 142 of a
building
wherein the bracket 114 is nailed directly to at least one stud 142. The shape
of the
mounting sleeve 6 also provides additional stability such that its engagement
with the
vertical/horizontal studs 142 prevents rotation of the mounting sleeve 6.
Referring now to Fig. 33, yet another embodiment of the present invention is
shown that employs a square mounting sleeve 6. Here, the grooves 50 are non-
continuous and interface with the bracket 114. In the embodiments shown, the
bracket
114 snap fits into grooves 50 to secure the mounting sleeve 6. The bracket 114
employs
a plurality of apertures for the receipt of nails or wood screws to
interconnect to the studs
of a building, for example.
Referring now to Figs. 1-33, the mounting sleeve 6 of one embodiment of the
present invention is interconnected to a dwelling, or other structure, in the
following
manner. Initially, faucet location are identified from inside the dwelling and
a level line
is drawn. A 2 9/16 inch hole is drilled such that its center coincides with
the level line
previously drawn. The bottom bracket 10 is then aligned to the hole such that
the
mounting sleeve rest 78 coincides with the bottom lip of the hole. Alignment
marks 94 on
the bottom bracket 10 are also aligned with the previously drawn level line.
Once all is in
alignment, fasteners 34 are used to interconnect the bottom bracket 10 to the
well 30 of
the dwelling. The mounting sleeve 6 is then inserted through the hole and
maintained on
the bottom bracket 10. Next, the approximate offset needed to compensate for
the
exterior surface 38 is estimated and the offset is noted from the offset
indicator 62
provided on the mounting sleeve 6. Preferably, the mounting sleeve 6 should be
near
flush with the exterior finished surface 38. Once the desired offset is
maintained, the top
bracket 14 is slid onto the bottom bracket 10 wherein the bottom bracket 10 is
also
positioned within a groove 50 of the mounting sleeve 6 to hold the mounting
sleeve 6 in
place. At least one fastener 34 is then used to secure the top bracket 14 to
the wall 30.
Next, a finishing material or veneer 32 is added around the mounting sleeve 6,
thereby
blending it in with the exterior surface 38. Finally, the faucet assembly is
then
interconnected to the mounting sleeve 6 wherein the faucet flange 46 is
fastened with
21
CA 02708061 2010-06-16
screws to the mounting sleeve 6. This installation step also positions the
tube 22 on the
tube rest 26 to ensure a proper drain angle (a) of about 3 degrees. The final
step is to
interconnect the water supply to the tube 22.
Referring now to Figs. 34-44, another embodiment of the faucet mounting
assembly is shown that is adapted to receive faucets with varying sizes and
shapes of
faucet flanges. More specifically, often faucet flanges 42 may be elongated
such that the
handle 158 and the outlet 162 of the faucet assembly is laterally spaced. This
is done
such that a larger handle 158, which sometimes may be oval in shape, may be
used that
helps facilitate gripping thereof. Often the outlet 162 also receives an anti-
siphon valve
166. The outlet 162 and valve 166 shown are designed to be oriented at an
angle relative
to the faucet flange 42. By angling these components, the users hands will not
readily
contact the outlet 162 and valve 166 when the larger handle 158 is turned. One
skilled in
the art will appreciate that the faucet flange 142 may be of such a length to
accommodate
a plurality of outlets 162. For example, a faucet assembly having hot and cold
water
outlets may be used in conjunction with embodiments of the present invention.
It also
should be understood that the outlet 162 may be positioned above or below the
handle as
well. In practice, the faucet assembly is secured to the faucet mounting
assembly via a
plurality of screws 170 which are received in to faucets 174. The mounting
sleeve 6 is
adapted to engage onto a wall 30 with a plurality of brackets, similar to what
has been
described above.
Referring now specifically to Figs. 34-38 the mounting sleeve 6 of another
embodiment of the present invention with an elongated flange 42 is provided.
The
mounting sleeve 6, as described above, includes an offset indicator 62 and is
adapted to
receive a tube 22 of the faucet assembly. A plurality of bosses 174 or other
mechanisms
are used that receive screws 170 that hold the faucet flange onto the
elongated flange 42
of the faucet mounting assembly 2.
Referring now to Fig. 38, the tube 22 is shown angled with respect to the
sleeve
flange 42. The angulation is important since it helps ensure that water
trapped within the
tube 22 is efficiently expelled from the valve or outlet of the faucet
assembly. In order to
achieve this angulation, the faucet mounting sleeve described above used a
tube rest 26.
This embodiment, however, employs a housing 178 that has an angular inlet that
receives
22
CA 02708061 2010-06-16
the tube 22 such that it is positioned at an angle relative to the housing
178. The flange
42 may be recessed 182 within the mounting sleeve 6 such that the faucet
flange 46
resides within a recess 182. This ensures that the faucet flange 46 is
oriented correctly in
relation to the mounting sleeve 6 so that the tube 42 is also positioned at
the appropriate
angle to ensure water is not trapped in the tube 22 after the faucet is shut
off.
Referring now to Figs. 39-44, interconnection of the faucet mounting assembly
2
is shown. For example, initially a hole is drilled through an interior wall 30
wherein the
faucet mounting assembly 2 is positioned therein. The mounting sleeve 6 is
then offset a
predetermined distance from the wall 30. Next, the bottom bracket 10 and the
top
bracket 14 are then interconnected to the mounting sleeve 6 and interconnected
by
various fasteners 34 onto the wall 30. The exterior building material 38 is
then added to
the wall 30 such that the sleeve flange 42 is positioned against the exterior
building
material 38. At this stage, the sleeve flange 42 may be moved relative to the
wall 30 as
required to accommodate differences in thicknesses often found in the use of
varying
sizes of exterior building materials, such as stone. Once the proper offset is
achieved, the
remainder of the exterior building material is added to the wall 30. Next, the
faucet
assembly is added to the faucet mounting assembly wherein the tube 22 is
placed within
the mounting sleeve 6 and the faucet flange 46 is engaged onto the sleeve
flange 42 via a
plurality of screws 170. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the
faucet assembly
may be interconnected to the faucet mounting assembly prior to the addition of
the
exterior building materials. The faucet flange 46 is placed within the recess
(not shown)
of the sleeve flange 42 to help facilitate the orientation of the faucet
assembly and thus to
ensure that the tube 22 is positioned at the appropriate angle to allow fluid
egress from
the outlet 162 and/or valve 166.
Referring now to Figs. 45-50, another embodiment of the present invention is
shown that is specifically designed to accommodate larger industrial faucets.
The faucet
mounting sleeve 6 is selectively associated with an upper bracket 14 and a
lower bracket
10, as described above with respect to Figs. 1-33. In addition, the faucet
flange 46
engages the sleeve flange 42 such that the tube 22 is situated at an angle
such that water
is allowed to escape through the faucet 18 when it is turned off. Thus, the
tube support
rest as described above is required. However, one skilled in the art will
appreciate that a
23
CA 02708061 2010-06-16
tube rest may be used to help support the tube 22. This embodiment of the
present
invention also includes a mounting sleeve 6 having an offset indicator 62 and
a series of
grooves 50 that engage the upper bracket 14 and/or lower bracket 10 to prevent
movement of the sleeve 6 subsequent to installation. The upper bracket 14 and
lower
bracket 10 interconnect the wall 30 as described above. A seal 215 may also be
placed
between the sleeve flange 42 and the wall 30.
Referring now to Figs. 51-56, yet another embodiment of the present invention
is
shown that uses a mounting sleeve having a groove 216 therein. More
specifically, a
mounting sleeve similar to those described above is shown having at least one
groove 216
integrated along the length thereof. This embodiment of the present invention
may also
include a pocket 218 that receives a portion of the faucet 18 (now shown). In
operation,
the mounting sleeve 6 is placed through a hole in a wall 30. An anchor plate
222 is then
slid around the sleeve 6. The anchor plate preferably has at least one key 226
that is
received within the groove 216, thereby preventing rotation of the sleeve 6
and associated
sleeve flange 42. Prior to placing the anchor plate 222 onto the wall 30, a
plurality of
holes (now shown) are drilled into the wall 30 that receive a plurality of
anchor bolts 230.
The anchor bolts are also received within apertures in the anchor plate 222
and are
secured and the anchor plate 222 is secured to the anchor bolts 230 by a
plurality of nuts
234. This configuration prevents the anchor plate 222 from rotation and thus
prevents the
sleeve 6 and associated sleeve flange 42 from rotating as well. In order to
prevent the
sleeve 6 and associated flange 42 from pulling away from the wall 30, a nut
element is
screwed onto the threads of the mounting sleeve 6. One skilled in the art will
appreciate
that other methods, such as an interference fit between the mounting sleeve 6
and the
anchor plate 222 may be employed to achieve this function. Further, other
methods, as
described in this specification or generally known in the art may be used to
achieve this
function.
Referring now to Figs. 57-61, another embodiment of the present invention is
shown that employs a threaded sleeve 186 that receives a nut element 190. The
nut
element is adapted to rotate relative to the threaded member 186, thereby
moving the nut
element 190 with respect to the sleeve flange 42. In operation, the sleeve 186
is placed
through a hole in the wall 30 wherein the sleeve flange 42 is abutted against
an exterior
24
CA 02708061 2010-06-16
portion of the wall 30. The nut element 190 is then tightened on to the other
side of the
wall 30 to secure the mounting sleeve 186 and associated faucet 18 relative to
the wall.
Referring now to Figs, 62-67, yet another embodiment of the present invention
is
shown that employs an adjustable threaded mounting sleeve. More specifically,
a
threaded mounting sleeve 186 is employed in combination with a threaded stem
202 that
is associated with a nut element 200. As succinctly shown in Figs. 64 and 65,
this
telescoping member allows the mounting sleeve to be used in conjunction with
thicker
walls. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the stem 202 may be
associated on the
outside of the threaded mounting sleeve 186 as opposed to inside the threaded
mounting
sleeve 186. This embodiment of the present invention contemplates that the
threaded
mounting sleeve 186 may be used with a nut element 190 described above with
respect
to Figs. 57-61 for certain situations, but if the wall 30 thickness is
increased, the nut 190
may be replaced by the nut element 200 having the extended stem 202. It also
should be
understood that the threaded sleeve 186 may receive a stem 202 that is not
associated
with a nut element 200. For example, one skilled in the art will appreciate
that
embodiments of the present invention may employ an extending piece somewhat
like the
stem 202 that fits into internal threads of the sleeve 186. This member could
be made of
any length and selectively cut to fit a particular situation. Then a free
standing nut
element, similar to that shown as 200, may be used to complete the assembly.
Referring now to Figs. 68-75, another embodiment of the present invention is
shown that employs at least two mounting sleeves 6. The mounting sleeves 6 are
interconnected to an elongated sleeve flange 42 and receive a cold water inlet
210 and a
hot water inlet 214. The mounting sleeve 6 are similar to those described
above with
respect to Figs. 1-33 and include an offset indicator 62, an upper bracket 14,
and a lower
bracket 10. Tube rests (not shown) that ensure that the pipes 22 are at the
proper angle,
may also be employed. Often, however, the faucet flange 46, of this embodiment
or any
embodiment of the invention disclosed herein, provides the necessary angle (a)
for the
tubes 22, in which case the tube rest is not required. One skilled in the art
will appreciate
that the sleeve flange 42 may be alternatively associated with a wider one-
piece sleeve
that accommodates both tubes 22. However, such a configuration shown, lends
itself
CA 02708061 2012-06-11
easily to be installed wherein the holes drilled through the wall 30 may be
done with
common drill bits (9/16 inch, for example) without further alterations to the
wall 30.
As shown succinctly in Figs. 74 and 75, the offset of the faucet 18 with
respect to the
wall 30 may be selectively altered to accommodate an exterior building surface
38 as
described herein.
While various embodiments of the present invention have been described in
detail, it is apparent that modifications and alterations of those embodiments
will occur
to those skilled in the art. However, it is to be expressly understood that
such
modifications and alterations are within the scope and spirit of the present
invention, as
set forth in the following claims. In addition, one skilled in the art will
appreciate that
aspects of other inventions may be incorporated and are added in combination
to the
embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein. For example, aspects of
the
inventions disclosed in, for example, U.S. Patent Nos. 6,142,172 and
6,431,204, which
concern wall faucets, may be incorporated into embodiments of the present
invention.
26
