Cistern Valve Rocker Control for Dual Filling and Flushing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve units for cisterns lack a mechanical-hydraulic control mechanism that allows them to seamlessly transition between closed and open positions, limiting their functionality as either filling or flushing valves.
Innovation Solution
A valve unit with a control rocker that moves between two stable positions, utilizing magnetic connections and spring elements for actuation, to control the inflow valve, enabling it to switch between closed and open positions, and is adaptable for both filling and flushing operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a valve unit is designed to perform only one function (filling or flushing), then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The valve unit incorporates a dual-function design where the same mechanical-hydraulic control mechanism can operate the inlet valve in two distinct modes: filling mode (gradual opening) and flushing mode (rapid opening). The control element with rocker arm and magnetic stop areas provides a universal actuation system that adapts to different operational requirements through adjustable stop area positions, enabling a single device structure to perform multiple functions.
2Reliability
If a float actuation system is used, then the valve can be actuated automatically, but the control precision and stability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces magnetic stop areas as an intermediary mechanism between the float actuation system and the inlet valve. The magnetic connection provides a stable, precise stopping position for the rocker arm, enhancing control reliability. The magnetic field acts as a mediator that translates the float's movement into precise valve actuation with well-defined stable positions, improving control stability without significantly complicating the actuation mechanism.
3Speed
If the inlet valve is actuated gradually, then the filling operation is smooth, but the flushing operation requires rapid actuation
Solution Approach 1:
The valve unit employs a dynamic actuation mechanism where the rocker arm can pivot between different stop areas depending on the operational mode. In flushing mode, the rocker arm pivots to a stop area configuration that enables rapid valve opening. In filling mode, the same mechanism provides gradual opening through different pivot geometry. This dynamic adjustment of the actuation characteristics through a single mechanical system provides operational flexibility for both rapid and gradual valve opening 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 valve unit effectively controls the inflow valve to ensure reliable operation as either a filling or flushing valve, with adjustable positions and forces, enhancing the versatility and efficiency of cistern management.
Implementation Method 1
the first and second stop areas, as well as their counterparts and subsequent counterparts, each have a magnetic connection. The attractive force provided by the magnetic connection between the first stop area and its counterpart, and between the second stop area and its subsequent counterpart, holds the control rocker in a stable position.
Implementation Method 2
a spring element mounted on the valve housing acts on an effective surface arranged on the control rocker arm, and the control rocker arm has a first stop surface and a second stop surface. In the first stable position, the spring element presses the control rocker arm with the first stop surface against a first counter surface, and in the second stable position, the spring element presses the control rocker arm with the second stop surface against a second counter surface.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A valve unit (1) for a cistern comprises a valve housing (2), a water channel (3) arranged in the valve housing (2) with an inlet (4) and an outlet (5), a control element (6), and an inlet valve (7) arranged in the water channel (3), wherein the control element (6) is operatively connected to the inlet valve (7) such that the inlet valve (7) can be actuated by the control element (6), wherein the control element (6) has a control rocker (8) which is movable between a first stable position (P1) and a second stable position (P2), wherein in the first stable position (P1) the inlet valve (7) is actuated by the control rocker such that the inlet valve (7) is in a closed position, and wherein in the second stable position (P2) the inlet valve (7) is actuated by the control rocker such that the inlet valve (7) is in a flow position is.