Concealed Cistern with Segmented Actuator and Integrated Odour Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cisterns for toilets are overly complex, lack dual-flush capability, and have maintenance and repair challenges due to exposed hydraulic actuators. Additionally, current odour extraction systems are inefficient and environmentally unfriendly.
Innovation Solution
A concealed cistern with integrated dual-flush and odour extraction capabilities, featuring a hydraulic actuator housed within the cistern for protection and ease of maintenance, and a fan-based odour extraction system that directs fumes away from the toilet bowl.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the cistern is designed with simplified flushing capability, then the device complexity is reduced, but the dual-flush capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The flush valve assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it can be actuated by either a first actuator for a first flush volume or a second actuator for a second flush volume, making the single valve structure universal for both full and partial flushing operations without requiring separate valve mechanisms
2Device complexity
If the hydraulic actuator is located inside the tank, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates due to susceptibility to corrosion and maintenance difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator system is segmented into two distinct types: a first hydraulic actuator positioned inside the tank for compact integration, and a second mechanical actuator positioned outside the tank for reliable operation and easy maintenance. This segmentation allows each actuator type to be optimized for its specific location and function
Solution Approach 2:
A common flush valve assembly serves as an intermediary component that can be actuated by either the first hydraulic actuator or the second mechanical actuator. This mediator allows the system to switch between internal hydraulic actuation and external mechanical actuation, combining the space-saving benefits of internal placement with the reliability benefits of external access
3Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional odour extraction systems are used, then the harmful factors are reduced, but the loss of substance increases due to inefficient ventilation
Solution Approach 1:
The odour extraction function is merged with the cistern structure by integrating an extraction vent and fan assembly into the cistern body, allowing odour extraction to occur at the source (toilet bowl level) rather than requiring separate ceiling-level ventilation systems, thereby improving extraction efficiency while reducing overall air movement requirements
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 provides a simple, hygienic, and low-maintenance cistern with adjustable flush parameters to suit varying regional requirements, while also effectively reducing odours and improving air quality in toilet facilities.
Implementation Method 1
liquid entering the hydraulic actuator via the actuator supply inlet drives the piston and piston rod into the extended condition
Implementation Method 2
the flush plug being buoyant, the flush plug rises upwardly toward the trap
Implementation Method 3
the fill float rises upwardly onto the fill valve seat in response to liquid rising upwardly into contact with and beyond the float catch
Implementation Method 4
A fan housed in a fan housing draw fumes from the toilet bowl
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~3A
AI summary
This invention relates to a cistern (1010): More specifically, the invention relates primarly to concealed cisterns for toilets having integrated, and preferably adjustable, dual-flushing and odour extraction capability. The cistern (1010) includes a primary chamber (1020) for storing a volume of liquid, a liquid inlet (1026) for the primary chamber (1020) of the cistern (1010) with liquid, an air outlet (1028) for exhausting air from the primary chamber (1020) of the cistern (1010) operatively during filling; and a liquid outlet (30) through which liquid operatively stowed in the primary chamber (1020) of the cistern is dischargeable. The cistern (1010) further includes a fill valve for controlling liquid supply into the primary chamber from the liquid inlet (1026) and a flush valve (60) for controlling flow through the liquid outlet (30). The flush valve (60) comprises of a flush valve seat and a flush plug (1064) being moveable relative to the flush valve seat between an open position, wherein the flush plug ( 1064) is displaced from the flush valve seat thereby to open the liquid outlet (30) and enable the liquid in the primary chamber (1020) to discharge there through during flushing, and a closed position, wherein the flush plug (1064) is seated on the flush valve seat thereby to close the liquid outlet (30) and prevent the passage of liquid there through. The cistern (1010) also includes at least one actuator (1070) for actuating displacement of the flush plug (1064) from the closed position to the open position, and a controller (1 123) for controlling one or more of a group of flushing conditions including: (i) flush type, wherein the cistern (1010) is adjustable between a single flush, dual-flush, on-demand flush or a combination of such flush type conditions; and (ii) flush time, wherein the time of the displacement of the flush plug (1064) by the actuator (1070) for each flush type condition is adjustable.