Dual-Control Faucet Switching for Sensor Failure and Power Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automatic faucets malfunction when the sensor switch fails or the power supply is cut off, and they cannot maintain continuous water flow, limiting their usability.
Innovation Solution
A multi-control automatic faucet with both manual and sensor control modes, featuring a manual valve core, solenoid valve core, water flow sensor, main sensor switch, and controller, allowing users to switch between control modes for continuous water flow and ensuring functionality even without power or a functioning sensor switch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If automatic faucet uses sensor control mode, then convenience and ease of operation are improved, but reliability deteriorates when sensor switch fails or power is cut off
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control system into two independent segments: a sensor control path (automatic mode) and a manual control path (manual mode). The sensor switch controls a first solenoid valve, while the manual valve core provides direct mechanical control. This segmentation allows the system to switch between automatic and manual modes, ensuring that failure of the sensor or power supply does not completely disable the faucet, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameter from purely automatic sensor-based control to a dual-mode system that can operate in either automatic or manual mode. By introducing a manual valve core that operates independently of the sensor switch and power supply, the system parameter changes from single-mode automatic control to multi-mode control, ensuring continuous functionality under different conditions and resolving the reliability issue.
2Loss of substance
If automatic faucet closes valve after few seconds, then water conservation is improved, but usability deteriorates when continuous water flow is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic control capability where the faucet can adapt its operation mode based on user needs. The manual valve core allows users to dynamically extend water flow duration beyond the automatic timer's few seconds by manually holding the valve open. This dynamic adjustment between automatic timed-closure and manual continuous-open modes resolves the contradiction between water conservation and continuous flow usability.
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
Enables continuous water flow through manual operation and automatic control, enhancing user convenience and reliability by prioritizing manual control mode, ensuring water availability even during power outages or sensor failures.
Implementation Method 1
The water flow sensor is configured to detect whether water flows through the first outlet water channel
Implementation Method 2
The solenoid valve core is configured to open and close the second outlet water channel
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-control automatic faucet includes a faucet body, a manual valve core, a solenoid valve core, a water flow sensor, a main sensor switch, and a controller. The water flow sensor is configured to detect whether water flows through manual valve core. When there is water flowing through the manual valve core, the controller controls the main sensor switch to be inactive. When there is no water flowing through the manual valve core, the controller controls the faucet body to spray water out through the solenoid valve core. The multi-control automatic faucet has two control modes, namely, a manual control mode and a sensor control mode. It is convenient for users to use.