Dual Flush Adapter for Single Flush Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Most toilets in the United States have single flush capabilities that use more water than necessary, leading to water waste, and existing flush valves require significant effort to convert to dual flush systems, often resulting in limited fit or function.
Innovation Solution
A dual flush adapter that can be affixed to existing single flush valves, utilizing a clamp and gasket mechanism to convert them into dual flush mechanisms, allowing for two water usage settings by mating with a dual flush canister, which can open or close the flush orifice to implement different flush volumes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a single flush valve is used, then the toilet can flush, but it uses more water than necessary leading to water waste
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the single flush valve system into two separate flush mechanisms within a dual flush canister. The canister contains two separate flappers or sealing members that can independently control water flow, allowing selection between a first flush volume for liquid waste and a second, larger flush volume for solid waste. This segmentation enables water conservation by matching flush volume to waste type while maintaining comprehensive flushing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal dual flush adapter that can be installed on existing single flush valves without requiring removal of the toilet tank or replacement of the original valve. The adapter serves multiple functions: it converts single flush valves to dual flush operation, provides water conservation benefits, and maintains compatibility with existing toilet infrastructure. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by adding versatility while preserving the original flushing function.
2Loss of energy
If existing flush valves are converted to dual flush systems, then water efficiency improves, but significant effort is needed to remove toilet tank, remove existing flush valve, and install new style flush valve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dual flush adapter as an intermediary component that interfaces between the existing single flush valve and the dual flush canister. This adapter eliminates the need to remove the toilet tank or disconnect the existing valve from the tank. The adapter attaches to the existing valve's overflow tube or mounting structure, providing a bridge that enables dual flush functionality while preserving the original valve installation. This intermediary approach dramatically reduces installation effort while achieving water conservation goals.
3Loss of energy
If existing flush valves are converted to dual flush systems, then water efficiency improves, but limited fit or function results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal dual flush adapter with features that ensure broad compatibility across different toilet models and valve types. The adapter includes adjustable mounting mechanisms, various gasket configurations, and multiple attachment point options that accommodate different overflow tube diameters and valve styles. This universality ensures proper fit and full functionality across diverse existing toilet installations while enabling water conservation through dual flush operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities in the adapter design, allowing installation personnel to adjust mounting positions, clamp tensions, and gasket positions to achieve optimal fit for each specific toilet configuration. The dual flush canister also includes adjustable components that can be positioned to match different valve orientations and spacing requirements. This dynamic adaptability ensures full functionality and proper fit across various toilet models while maintaining water conservation benefits.
Data Source
AI summary
Various apparatuses and methods that facilitate dual flush capability are presented. In one embodiment, an apparatus is provided that includes a dual flush mechanism configured to provide for a dual flush capability in a toilet. The dual flush mechanism can include a basket structure. A gasket can be attached to the dual flush mechanism. The gasket can form a seal between the dual flush mechanism and a flush orifice of a flush valve.