Automatic Dual Flush Control Using Usage Time Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional flush valves use a single flush volume, which is inefficient as it uses more water than necessary for liquid waste due to the higher volume required for solid waste, and existing multi-flush systems require manual activation, leading to improper flush volume selection.
Innovation Solution
An automatic dual flush volume valve system that uses sensors to detect user presence and duration of use to determine the appropriate flush volume, comparing usage time to predetermined averages for solid and liquid waste to select the correct flush volume.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If a single flush volume valve is used, then the system is simple to operate, but water is wasted by using higher volume for liquid waste than necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines the appropriate flush volume by detecting usage time, eliminating the need for user decision-making. The control system serves itself by autonomously selecting between reduced and full flush volumes based on sensor data, thereby reducing water waste without compromising ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual selection mechanism is replaced with an automatic sensing and control system. Sensors detect usage time, and a control system processes this information to automatically activate the appropriate flush volume, substituting mechanical user action with automated electronic control.
2Loss of substance
If a multi-flush volume valve with manual activation is used, then water efficiency can be improved, but improper flush volume selection occurs due to user unawareness or indifference
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that detect usage time and provide feedback to the control system. This feedback loop enables the system to automatically determine the appropriate flush volume based on actual usage patterns, ensuring reliable and proper flush volume selection without depending on user knowledge or intent.
Solution Approach 2:
The system autonomously determines and executes the appropriate flush volume based on sensor-detected usage time. This self-service capability eliminates reliance on user decision-making, ensuring that the correct flush volume is consistently selected for water efficiency.
3Loss of substance
If an automatic dual flush volume valve is used, then water usage is optimized based on actual use, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system integrates multiple functions into a single automated unit: sensing usage time, determining flush type, and activating the appropriate flush volume. This multi-functionality achieves water usage optimization while consolidating components, thereby managing device complexity through functional integration.
4Extent of automation
If usage time detection is implemented, then appropriate flush volume can be automatically selected, but measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses predetermined average usage time thresholds to categorize flush types. By changing the parameter from precise measurement to threshold-based classification, the system achieves automatic flush volume selection with reduced measurement precision requirements, balancing automation with practical sensing capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi flush volume flush valve is in communication with an automatic flush control. The flush control determines the presence of a user and the amount of time the user uses the toilet. The usage time is compared to a predetermined time value to determine the appropriate flush volume based on an assumption regarding usage time and flush volume needs. The comparative value statistically adjusts to the restroom traffic.