Auto-Focus Faucet Sensor Spray Pattern Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing kitchen faucets require manual adjustment to change spray patterns, which can be inconvenient and inefficient for different tasks such as rinsing small objects or washing hands.
Innovation Solution
A faucet with a sensor assembly that includes at least one optical sensor to detect objects under the spray area, automatically adjusting the spray pattern through a controller and spray pattern controller assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual mechanical adjustment is used to change spray patterns, then the faucet structure remains simple, but user convenience and efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated sensor-based system. Optical sensors detect objects under the spray area and trigger electronic control mechanisms to adjust spray patterns automatically, eliminating the need for manual mechanical operation while improving ease of use.
Solution Approach 2:
The faucet system performs self-adjustment of spray patterns based on automatic object detection. The sensor assembly and controller work together to autonomously select and switch between spray patterns without requiring user intervention, making the system serve itself.
2Extent of automation
If sensors are added to enable automatic spray pattern switching, then user convenience is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces optical sensors and electronic controllers to replace manual mechanical control. The sensor assembly detects objects and the controller automatically adjusts spray patterns through electronic signals, achieving high automation by substituting mechanical operations with optical-electronic systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor assembly serves multiple functions: detecting objects, determining spray pattern requirements, and triggering appropriate spray modes. The controller integrates multiple control functions in one unit, reducing overall system complexity despite adding automation capabilities.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The faucet can automatically switch between different spray patterns based on detected objects, enhancing user convenience and efficiency by eliminating the need for manual adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor assembly that includes at least one optical sensor to detect an object within a space proximate the faucet spout
Data Source
AI summary
A faucet includes a faucet spout, a sensor assembly, a spray pattern controller, and a controller. The faucet body includes a faucet spout. The sensor assembly is configured to detect an object within a space proximate the faucet spout. The spray pattern controller is configured to adjust a spray pattern selected from a plurality of spray patterns being dispensed through the faucet spout. The controller is electronically coupled to the sensor assembly and the spray pattern controller, the controller capable of determining a desired spray pattern from the plurality of spray patterns.