Electrically Controlled Dual Flush Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Most toilets in the United States have a single flush capability that uses more water than necessary, leading to water waste, and traditional flush valves are difficult to replace or modify, limiting the adoption of dual flush technologies.
Innovation Solution
An electrically controlled dual flush system that includes a dual flush assembly secured to the toilet's overflow tube, activated by a push button or rotary handle, allowing for reduced water usage in a quick flush mode and standard water usage in a full flush mode, with a flush control box that can be mounted or integrated for adjustable flush durations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If a single flush capability is used, then the toilet can flush all types of waste, but it uses more water than necessary leading to water waste
Solution Approach 1:
The single flush capability is segmented into two distinct flush modes: a quick flush for light waste and a full flush for heavy waste. This segmentation allows the system to use appropriate water amounts for different situations, reducing overall water consumption while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The flush system transitions from a static single-mode operation to a dynamic multi-mode operation. The dual flush assembly allows users to dynamically select between quick and full flush modes based on the specific situation, optimizing water usage while adapting to different waste types.
2Loss of substance
If traditional flush valves are replaced with dual flush technology, then water efficiency is improved, but significant modifications to existing toilet setups are required
Solution Approach 1:
The dual flush assembly is designed as a universal component that can be installed on existing toilets without requiring complete replacement of the flush valve system. It functions as an add-on device that works with traditional flush valves, simplifying installation while delivering dual flush functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The dual flush assembly is designed to nest within or attach to the existing toilet tank structure. This nested design allows the new technology to integrate with existing setups without requiring significant modifications, making installation easier and more accessible.
3Loss of substance
If dual flush technology is installed, then water consumption is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dual flush system is segmented into distinct components: a quick flush mechanism and a full flush mechanism. Each component is independently simple in design, but together they provide the water-saving dual mode functionality. This segmentation allows for easier maintenance and understanding despite the added functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses an intermediary control mechanism (such as a dual-button flush handle or electronic controller) that manages the complexity of coordinating between two flush modes. This intermediary component simplifies the user interface while managing the underlying mechanical or electronic complexity of the dual flush system.
Data Source
AI summary
Various systems and methods are provided for electrically controlled flush applications. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes an activation assembly configured to initiate a flush of a flush assembly based upon a position of the activation assembly. The activation assembly includes a position sensor that senses a transition from a neutral position to a first position and a restraint mechanism that prevents a return to the neutral position for a predefined period of time corresponding to the flush duration. In another embodiment, a flush activation assembly includes an activation control box with a position sensor that provides an indication that a cable anchor has transitioned from a neutral position to a first position to initiate a flush of the flush assembly and a restraint mechanism that prevents the cable anchor from returning to the neutral position in response to the indication from the position sensor.