Electronic Toilet Flush Assembly with Dual Sequence Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional toilets face inefficiencies in water consumption and bowl rinsing due to simple mechanical flush assemblies, which are inadequate for varying waste loads, leading to inconsistent performance.
Innovation Solution
An advanced electronically controlled toilet with a dual flush sequence and eductor-assisted rinsing, featuring a rim supply valve and flush valve that operate twice during each cycle, and electronic control for optimized water management, allowing for quick or long flush modes based on waste conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single mechanical flush sequence is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the flush performance becomes inadequate for varied waste load conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The flush assembly transitions from a static single-sequence mechanical system to a dynamic multi-sequence electronically controlled system that can adapt its operation based on waste load conditions. The electronic control enables the system to dynamically switch between different flush sequences (single flush, pre-rinse, dual rinse) to optimize performance for varying conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The flush operation is segmented into distinct sequences (single flush sequence, pre-rinse sequence, dual rinse sequence) that can be independently selected and executed. Each sequence represents a separate operational mode with specific valve timing patterns, allowing the system to segment the flushing process into manageable, condition-appropriate stages.
2Device complexity
If simple mechanical components are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but water consumption increases in low waste conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic control system receives feedback about waste load conditions (through user selection or sensor input) and adjusts the flush sequence accordingly. In low waste conditions, the system can detect this and automatically select a water-efficient single flush sequence, while in high waste conditions it activates the pre-rinse and dual rinse sequences, optimizing water usage based on actual needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (valve timing, sequence type, water flow rate) based on waste load conditions. By varying these parameters dynamically, the system can reduce water consumption in low-waste scenarios while maintaining adequate flushing performance in high-waste scenarios, avoiding the need for excessive water usage in all conditions.
3Ease of manufacture
If simple mechanical flush components are used, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but bowl rinsing consistency deteriorates in high waste conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical sequencing mechanisms with an electronic control system that manages valve operation. This substitution maintains ease of manufacture (using standard electronic components and valve actuators) while achieving consistent and reliable rinsing performance through precise electronic timing and multi-sequence control, overcoming the limitations of purely mechanical systems.
4Reliability
If a dual rinse sequence with eductor is used, then the bowl rinsing effectiveness is improved, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial action by using the eductor-assisted dual rinse sequence only when high waste conditions are detected, rather than continuously operating at high energy consumption levels. The electronic control enables selective activation of the more energy-intensive rinsing sequences only when needed, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining rinsing effectiveness when required.
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 solution provides improved flush performance, reducing water waste in low-waste conditions while ensuring effective rinsing in high-waste scenarios, using electronic controls and level sensors to automate and regulate the flushing process.
Implementation Method 1
using an eductor to increase the flow rate of rinse water into the bowl
Data Source
AI summary
A toilet has an electronic flush assembly operable in either a short or long flush sequence selectable by a user. The long flush sequence includes a pre-rinse cycle and a rinse cycle in which the a supply valve and a flush valve are both opened and closed twice, once each first during the pre-rinse cycle and again during a subsequent rinse cycle. The rim supply valve and the flush valve are opened during the pre-rinse and rinse cycles but are closed at the start and end of each cycle. An electronic control controls operation of the valves as well as water supply control components. Level sensors can also be included to provide feedback to the controller, for example, to prevent overflow conditions.