Electronic Faucet Flow Control for Precise Volume and Temperature
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic plumbing fixture fittings, such as electronic faucets, face challenges in accurately controlling water volume and temperature, leading to inefficiencies and user dissatisfaction.
Innovation Solution
An electronic plumbing fixture fitting with a measurement system comprising a discharge outlet, electronic valve, user input module, flow sensor, and processor, which communicates to control the volume and temperature of water delivery, using sensors to detect and adjust flow rates and temperatures to match user inputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If electronic plumbing fixture fittings use conventional control mechanisms, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision of water volume and temperature control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by using flow sensors to detect actual water flow rate and temperature sensors to detect water temperature, then comparing these measured values with target values and adjusting the electronic valve accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables precise control of water volume and temperature while maintaining manageable system complexity through automated adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical control mechanisms (such as manual valves or simple aerators) with electronic control systems that use electronic valves actuated by motors or solenoids. These electronic valves are controlled by a processor that receives input from sensors and user interfaces, enabling more precise and programmable control of water flow and temperature.
2Productivity
If electronic plumbing fixture fittings operate at high flow rates, then the productivity is improved, but the harmful factors (splashing and water waste) increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action through ramp-up and ramp-down features in the water delivery process. Instead of immediately opening the electronic valve at full capacity, the system gradually increases flow rate over a predetermined period, then gradually decreases it before closing. This periodic modulation of flow rate prevents splashing while maintaining efficient water delivery during the peak flow phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-establishing control parameters and sensor thresholds before water delivery begins. The system pre-configures the ramp-up and ramp-down time periods, target flow rates, and temperature setpoints, allowing the electronic valve to operate efficiently without causing splashing once the controlled sequence is executed.
3Productivity
If the electronic valve opens immediately at full flow, then the productivity is maximized, but the measurement precision of volume delivery deteriorates due to splashing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic action with ramp-up and ramp-down phases to deliver water in a controlled manner. The electronic valve opens at a low initial flow rate, gradually increases to a peak flow rate for efficient delivery, then gradually decreases before closing. This periodic flow pattern maintains high productivity during the peak phase while ensuring volume delivery accuracy by preventing splashing during the transition phases.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback control using flow sensors that continuously monitor actual water flow rate and provide this information to the processor. The processor compares the measured flow rate with the target flow rate and adjusts the electronic valve position accordingly, ensuring accurate volume delivery. This feedback mechanism maintains measurement precision throughout the ramp-up and ramp-down phases while preserving overall productivity.
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
The system ensures precise control of water volume and temperature, improving user experience by delivering water at the desired specifications, with features like initial and final low flow rates and ramp-up/ramp-down mechanisms to enhance accuracy and reduce errors.
Implementation Method 1
The flow sensor is operable to detect a volume of water
Implementation Method 2
The temperature sensor is operable to detect a temperature of water
Implementation Method 3
The electronic valve is operable to control a volume of water flowing through the discharge outlet
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an electronic plumbing fixture fitting including a measurement system. The electronic plumbing fixture fitting includes a user input module. The user input module includes a mechanism to receive from the user numerical value(s) of parameter(s) for water to be delivered through a discharge outlet of the electronic plumbing fixture fitting (e.g., volume or volume and temperature) and a mechanism to deliver to the user the numerical value(s) of the parameter(s) via the water delivered through the discharge outlet of the electronic plumbing fixture fitting.