Cistern Flush Valve Control Shaft for Partial Full Flushing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drain fittings for cisterns require a large number of individual parts and are not versatile in their functionality, limiting their ability to perform partial and full flushing processes efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A simplified drain fitting design that uses a piston-based lifting device interacting with an outer contact surface, a control shaft, and a latching mechanism involving a float and levers to mechanically, hydraulically, or pneumatically actuate the drain valve, allowing for fewer parts and versatile operation, including adjustable partial flushing capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a control system with a large number of individual parts is used for selective setting of partial or full flushing, then the functionality and versatility are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control functions into a single integrated control shaft that can selectively engage different levers (first lever for full flush, second lever for partial flush) based on its rotational position. This merging of control mechanisms reduces the number of separate parts while maintaining the ability to select between different flushing modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The control shaft serves multiple functions: it controls the lifting device for valve opening, engages with different levers to select between full and partial flushing modes, and coordinates the latching mechanism. This multi-functionality allows a single component to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate control elements.
2Reliability
If a mechanical actuating device with many components is used, then the reliability of actuation is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control shaft integrates multiple control functions into a single rotatable component that can engage different levers at different rotational positions. This reduces the number of separate mechanical parts that need to be manufactured and assembled, while the reliable engagement through lever-and-pivot mechanisms ensures consistent actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is segmented into distinct functional modules: the control shaft for mode selection, the lifting device for valve actuation, and the latching mechanism for position locking. Each module can be manufactured and tested independently, then assembled together, improving both manufacturability and reliability.
3Device complexity
If a simplified drain fitting with fewer parts is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability for different flushing modes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control shaft is designed as a universal control element that can select between different flushing modes (full flush and partial flush) by rotating to different positions and engaging different levers. This allows a single simplified component to provide the adaptability of a complex multi-component system.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system uses dynamic elements including a rotatable control shaft that changes position based on the desired flushing mode, and a latching mechanism with a movable latch that can engage or disengage based on the piston position. This dynamic behavior allows a simple structure to achieve multiple functions.
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 solution reduces the complexity of the drain valve system, enables efficient partial and full flushing processes with fewer components, and allows for adjustable flushing volumes, enhancing the versatility and efficiency of the cistern drainage system.
Implementation Method 1
a bellows 221 being attached to the valve housing (20) on the one hand and to a partition wall (2201) of the piston (220) on the other hand
Implementation Method 2
a float (2510) being arranged on the side of the flap (251) facing away from the axis of rotation (2511), such that the buoyancy of the float (2510) moves the flap (251)
Implementation Method 3
a leaf spring (2504) is formed with an end area on the control shaft (250)... which cooperates with a special latching shoulder (2514) of the flap (251)
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3
AI summary
The valve has an armature for a flushing cistern having a drain valve, an overflow pipe (21) a closing link and an operating device, and a roller. The roller lies close to exterior with an opening and a contact surface. A parallel lever (2501, 2502) is provided with a camshaft (250) for releasing and a holding pin (2512) of the overflow pipe into an opened position.