Thomas P. Konen, 66, died of a brain aneurysm Dec. 17 at the Somerset Medical Center, Somerville, N.J. He was a research professor at Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, N.J., and a professional engineer. "The research he has done has impacted product designs in just about every plumbing category," said David W. Viola, technical director at the Plumbing Manufacturers Institute. "He conducted research to determine the number and type of plumbing fixtures required in buildings and was involved in water conservation efforts. He helped to refine the standards to improve the performance of 1.6-gpf models. His work contributed to design improvements. The few examples I've cited only scratch the surface of Tom Konen's contributions to public health and safety, plumbing system and product design and the advancements of new technologies." Konen received an award for excellence in plumbing design from the American Society of Plumbing Engineers. His research was featured in National Geographic.

He is survived by his wife, Phyllis Policastro Konen, three children and six grandchildren. Donations may be made to the Thomas P. Konen Memorial Fund, Stevens Institute of Technology, Castle Point Station, Hoboken, N.J. 07030.