Faucet with Modular Cascade Module for Laminar Flow Rinsing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water discharge devices for sinks primarily provide a vertical stream of water, lacking a combination of an overhead faucet head and a horizontally oriented cascading flow for a gentle laminar rinse.
Innovation Solution
A water supply device featuring dual selectable flow outlets, including a conventional faucet and a modular cascade module with adjustable nozzle patterns, controlled by cartridge and diverter valves to manage flow rate and temperature, and optionally incorporating air introduction for aeration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional faucet provides a vertical stream of water, then the water discharge function is simple and reliable, but it lacks a horizontally oriented cascading flow for gentle laminar rinsing
Solution Approach 1:
The faucet is divided into separate functional modules: a conventional faucet head for vertical stream and a cascade module with multiple nozzles for horizontal cascading flow. This segmentation allows each module to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall system simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The faucet base is designed to support multiple outlet configurations, including both traditional vertical stream and horizontal cascading flow patterns. This multi-functionality enables a single device to provide diverse rinsing options without requiring separate fixtures.
2Ease of operation
If a faucet head is made extendable and retractable to provide greater range of direction, then the direction control is improved, but it requires manual holding and reduces operational convenience
Solution Approach 1:
The flow direction control is segmented into fixed outlets positioned at different angles and heights. Each outlet provides a specific directional flow pattern, eliminating the need for movable or extendable mechanisms while maintaining versatile direction control.
3Productivity
If a cascade module with multiple nozzles is added to provide laminar flow rinsing, then the rinsing effectiveness is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cascade module is designed as a separate, self-contained unit with multiple nozzles arranged in specific patterns. This segmentation allows the complex multi-nozzle structure to be manufactured and installed as a single module, simplifying the overall integration process.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple nozzles are combined into a single integrated cascade module that functions as one cohesive unit. The nozzles are positioned and configured to work together, creating a unified laminar flow pattern that improves rinsing efficiency without requiring complex individual control mechanisms.
4Adaptability or versatility
If interchangeable nozzle patterns are implemented in the cascade module, then the adaptability to various rinsing needs is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different nozzle patterns are segmented into separate interchangeable modules or inserts that can be independently manufactured and replaced. This allows users to swap between different rinsing patterns without redesigning the entire cascade module.
Solution Approach 2:
The cascade module is designed with a universal interface and mounting mechanism that accommodates multiple nozzle patterns. This multi-functionality enables a single base module to support various rinsing configurations through simple pattern exchanges.
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 device provides a laminar cascade of water for effective rinsing, with adjustable flow and temperature settings, and the modular design allows for interchangeable nozzle configurations to suit various rinsing needs.
Implementation Method 1
A cartridge valve controls water temperature and flow rate
Implementation Method 2
a diverter valve directs the water supply to either the faucet head or to the plurality of nozzles of the cascade module
Implementation Method 3
the surfaces of the protruding wall are angled to direct excess water on the nozzles towards the water basin during and after use
Data Source
AI summary
A faucet and cascading rinse module adapted for use in a sink wherein cascading water flows from the module in a selected laminar flow pattern for rinsing articles with a water-fall effect. A water supply device comprising dual selectable flow outlets, to dispense water from either a faucet positioned above a water basin or from a cascade module mounted adjacent to the water basin. The cascade module is modular to allow for alternative nozzle patterns to be used interchangeably in the water supply device. A cartridge valve controls water temperature and flow rate while a diverter valve directs the water supply to either the faucet head or to the plurality of nozzles of the cascade module.