Deformable Tubular Extension for Constant Liquid Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current flow control devices in single-lever tap cartridges and shower systems face clogging issues due to pressure variations, leading to inconsistent water flow and noise, as they rely on multiple micro-holes that become clogged with impurities.
Innovation Solution
A liquid flow control device featuring a deformable tubular extension with a controllable passage section, made of elastomeric material, that adjusts flow based on pressure differences, combined with a noise-dampening second piece with specific internal reliefs to maintain constant flow and reduce turbulence noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple micro-holes are used for flow control, then constant water flow can be maintained despite pressure variations, but the device becomes prone to clogging with water impurities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the flow control function from multiple micro-holes and concentrates it into a single through orifice. This eliminates the clogging problem associated with multiple small holes while maintaining the ability to control flow rate through a single, larger opening that is less susceptible to impurity blockage
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the flow control structure by using a through orifice with specific dimensional ratios (length-to-diameter ratio between 0.5 and 2.0) and positioning it at specific distances from the distal end (0.05 to 0.2 times the tube length). These parameter optimizations enable constant flow maintenance while preventing clogging
2Productivity
If flow control is achieved through conventional means, then water flow can be regulated, but noise level increases due to turbulence
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a deformable tubular extension that dynamically adjusts its passage section in response to pressure variations. This dynamic adaptation allows the device to maintain optimal flow control across different pressure conditions while minimizing turbulence and associated noise generation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes geometric parameters including the tapered configuration of the tubular extension, the angular cross-section of the external annular channel, and the positioning of the through orifice. These parameter optimizations enable smooth flow transitions that reduce turbulence and noise while maintaining effective flow regulation
3Reliability
If a deformable tubular extension is used for flow control, then constant flow can be maintained through pressure-responsive deformation, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a self-regulating deformable tubular extension that automatically adjusts its passage section in response to pressure differences without requiring external control mechanisms. The elastomeric material inherently responds to pressure changes, causing the tube to deform and modulate flow rate automatically, thereby maintaining constant flow while avoiding complex mechanical or electronic control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an elastomeric tubular extension that leverages the flexible properties of elastomeric materials to achieve pressure-responsive deformation. This flexible structure naturally adapts to pressure changes, providing flow control functionality while keeping the device structure simple and elegant
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 device ensures a constant liquid flow and minimizes noise by dynamically adjusting the passage section in response to pressure changes, preventing clogging and optimizing flow rates, while the noise-dampening features reduce outlet noise levels effectively.
Implementation Method 1
The pressure difference of the circulating liquid on an inner surface and outer surface of the tubular extension modifies the controllable passage section maintaining a constant flow of the liquid
Implementation Method 2
An increase in the liquid pressure within the external annular channel bends and deforms the circular extension inwards, thus reducing the passage of circulating liquid
Implementation Method 3
The second piece dampens the noise level of the liquid flow circulating through the first piece and the second piece
Data Source
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AI summary
It is intended to be installed in a passage for liquids to maintain a constant flow and comprises a first piece (1) to control the liquid flow, having a through orifice (2) with a controllable passage section (2a) of the liquid flow, wherein the controllable passage section (2a) varies based on the water pressure affecting a deformable tubular extension (3) defining said controllable passage section (2a) which composes the through orifice (2). In this situation, the pressure difference of the circulating liquid between an inner surface and an outer surface of the tubular extension (3) modifies the controllable passage section (2a) maintaining a constant flow of the liquid.