Electronic faucet, method of coupling between a source of conditioned water or fluid and a faucet and method for controlling an electronic faucet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing faucets with multiple inlets for conditioned water sources face challenges in simplifying the connection process, leading to potential user safety risks due to incorrect inlet connections, particularly with hot and cold water inversion, and require improved command configuration for multiple inlets.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device with a data processing unit that receives identifying signals from sources of conditioned water, assigns logical associations between inlets and sources, and controls valve operations to ensure correct fluid supply, featuring wired and wireless transmission channels, and self-learning capabilities for customized dispensing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple inlets are provided for different conditioned water sources, then the functionality and versatility of the faucet is improved, but the complexity of connection and configuration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-identification and self-configuration through automated detection. The control unit automatically detects which water source is connected to each inlet and configures the logical associations without requiring manual operator intervention, thus simplifying the connection process while maintaining multiple functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical configuration with an automated electronic detection and identification system. The control unit uses electronic signals and automated logic to establish connections between inlets and water sources, substituting the traditional manual mechanical configuration process
2Ease of manufacture
If manual connection of water sources to inlets is performed, then installation flexibility is maintained, but the risk of incorrect connection and safety hazards increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit continuously monitors and detects the actual connections between inlets and water sources, providing feedback to verify correct configuration. The system can identify incorrect connections and alert users or automatically correct the configuration, ensuring reliable and safe operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical configuration with an automated electronic detection and identification system. The control unit uses electronic signals and automated logic to establish connections between inlets and water sources, substituting the traditional manual mechanical configuration process
3Reliability
If automated detection and identification systems are implemented, then connection accuracy and safety are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it controls valve operations, detects water sources, identifies connections, and manages configuration. By consolidating these functions into a single multi-functional component, the system achieves high reliability without proportionally increasing overall complexity
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device comprises at least a first command for selecting a supply of an outlet of a faucet with water from at least an inlet of said faucet, a data processing unit operatively associated to said first command, and a memory operatively accessible from said data processing unit. Said electronic device configured for activation in at least a self-learning operating configuration in which, the data processing unit, according to a connection of at least a first source of conditioned water or fluid to at least an inlet automatically determines an enabling of at least a first actuating combination of said first command allowing a first configuration of supplying of said outlet by means of water from at least a first selected inlet or from a first selected set of inlets. Said electronic device configured for activation in at least an operating configuration of dispensing through said data processing unit.