Integrated Faucet Control for Single-Element Flow Regulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water supply plumbing fixtures require users to operate multiple distinct components for activating and modulating water supply, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A command device that integrates activation and regulation functions into a single element, allowing users to choose water supply modes and adjust flow rates through a compact, intuitive design that combines multiple functions into a single component.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple distinct components are used for activating and modulating water supply, then the device can perform multiple functions (activation and flow rate modulation), but the device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the activation function and flow rate modulation function into a single integrated command device. The device includes a valve body with an integrated valve mechanism that can both activate water supply and modulate flow rate through a unified structure, eliminating the need for separate components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The command device is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions: it can activate water supply, deactivate water supply, and modulate the flow rate of water. This multi-functional design allows a single device to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple distinct components are used for activating and modulating water supply, then the device can perform multiple functions, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring two distinct operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the activation control and flow rate modulation control into a single unified interface. The command device includes control elements that allow users to perform both activation and modulation operations through one integrated mechanism, simplifying the user interaction to a single operational sequence rather than requiring coordination of multiple separate components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple distinct components are used for water supply control, then the device can provide comprehensive control functions, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple control functions into a single valve body and valve mechanism assembly. By combining the activation valve and flow rate modulation valve into one unified structure with shared components (valve body, sealing elements, actuation mechanisms), the manufacturing process is simplified and material usage is reduced, thereby lowering production costs compared to assembling multiple separate components.
Data Source
AI summary
A command device for a water supply plumbing fixture that extends along a main axis and has a base group fluidically connectable to at least one inlet line and to supply lines, and an activation and regulation group engaged with the base group is provided. The activation and regulation group has a plurality of activation members configurable in an active configuration and a passive configuration in which the activation members respectively allow or prevent passage of water to a respective supply line, and a regulation member having an annular adjustment crown angularly rotatable, the activation members being housed at least in part within the adjustment crown, and a valve element, housed at least in part inside the adjustment crown, engaged with the base group and with the adjustment crown, so that each angular position of the adjustment crown corresponds to a respective configuration of the valve element.