Discrete-Step Faucet Valve for Selectable Water Flow Limits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing faucets lack adjustable flow control mechanisms that can be easily retrofitted or installed to provide discrete, finite steps in water flow rates, making it difficult to meet varying water conservation targets without replacing fixtures or altering upstream shut-off valves, which can lead to deposit buildup and operational issues.
Innovation Solution
A discrete step, maximum flow-rate-selectable valve comprising an entry tube, selector tube, bell cap, set screw, and O-rings, allowing for easy adjustment and locking of flow rates by aligning calibrated holes to manage water flow at constant pressure, preventing unauthorized changes through specialized tool access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If upstream shut-off valves are adjusted to reduce flow rates, then water conservation is improved, but deposit buildup occurs and valve operation becomes inhibited
Solution Approach 1:
The valve body is segmented into multiple flow paths with discrete flow rates, achieved through selectively positionable members that can block specific flow paths. This segmentation allows precise control of water flow rate without requiring partial opening of the main shut-off valve, thereby preventing deposit buildup while maintaining reliable valve operation.
2Ease of operation
If aerators are installed to maintain high flow rate feel, then user satisfaction is improved, but adjustability for further water reduction is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The valve incorporates dynamically adjustable flow control through selectively positionable members that can be moved to different positions to achieve different flow rates. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to adapt to varying water conservation requirements while maintaining user satisfaction through consistent flow delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve changes the flow rate parameter by selectively blocking flow paths, providing discrete flow rate steps. This parameter change approach allows for further water reduction beyond what fixed aerators can achieve, while maintaining the tactile sensation of adequate flow for users.
3Loss of substance
If discrete flow rate steps are implemented, then water conservation compliance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve combines multiple flow control functions into a single integrated device that works with existing shut-off valves. By merging the discrete flow rate selection mechanism with the standard valve body, the system achieves water conservation compliance without requiring separate control systems or complex external mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve is designed as a universal component that can be installed in standard plumbing configurations and works with existing shut-off valves. The selectively positionable members provide multiple flow rates from a single device, eliminating the need for multiple valves or complex adjustment mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A discrete step, maximum flow-rate-selectable valve includes: (a) an entry tube with: (i) an exit with a single, off-center hole that lies on the circumference of a circle of radius “r” that is centered on the centerpoint of the exit, and (ii) an exterior surface having a portion with rotational symmetry, (b) a selector tube with: (i) an exit with a plurality of holes, each having a differing diameter and a center point that lies on the circumference of a circle of radius “r” which is centered on the centerpoint of the selector tube exit, and (ii) an interior surface configured to lie proximate said entry tube, exterior surface portion having rotational symmetry so as to assist in providing a water-tight seal between said tubes, and (c) a means to enable the selector tube to rotate in discrete steps around the entry tube.