Camera-Controlled Faucet Flow Adaptation by Object Classification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatically controlled faucets lack the ability to adapt fluid flow characteristics based on the type of object positioned beneath the spout, typically offering only binary 'on' and 'off' states, which is insufficient for various uses requiring different fluid flow characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A faucet control system that includes a camera for image capture, a ranging sensor for depth data, and a processing circuit to classify objects and dynamically adjust fluid flow characteristics such as temperature, rate, and duration based on the object's classification, ensuring optimal water usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a proximity sensor is used to automatically control the faucet based on object presence, then the faucet can be turned on and off automatically, but the fluid flow characteristics cannot be customized for different uses
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts fluid flow characteristics (temperature, flow rate, duration) based on real-time object classification results from the camera system, transitioning from static binary control to dynamic adaptive control
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes multiple fluid flow parameters (temperature, flow rate, duration) simultaneously based on the classified object type, enabling customized water settings for different uses such as hand washing, glass filling, or boiling water
2Adaptability or versatility
If a camera and ranging sensor system is added to classify objects and adjust fluid flow characteristics, then adaptability to different uses is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system serves multiple functions: detecting object presence, classifying object type, determining object position, and triggering appropriate fluid flow characteristics, consolidating multiple sensing functions into a single imaging system
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically classifies objects and adjusts fluid flow characteristics without user intervention, with the processing circuit autonomously interpreting camera data and controlling valve positions and flow parameters
3Device complexity
If the faucet provides only binary on and off states, then device complexity is minimized, but it becomes insufficient for different purposes requiring different fluid flow characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static binary control to dynamic multi-parameter control, adjusting temperature, flow rate, and duration based on real-time object classification
Solution Approach 2:
The system modifies multiple fluid flow parameters simultaneously (temperature via hot/cold water mixing, flow rate via valve position, duration via timing control) to provide customized settings for different object types and uses
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
Enables adaptive fluid flow control tailored to specific uses, such as washing hands, filling glasses, or boiling water, enhancing user experience and safety by preventing scalding through customizable water settings.
Implementation Method 1
a camera arranged to capture images of the sink. The image includes an object positioned beneath the spout
Implementation Method 2
a ranging sensor configured to generate data corresponding to relative depths of two or more surfaces of an object positioned beneath the spout
Data Source
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AI summary
A faucet (102) includes a spout (104) configured to direct fluid into a sink, a camera (122) arranged to capture images of the sink, and a processing circuit. The processing circuit is configured to receive an image from the camera (122). The image may include an object positioned beneath the spout (104). The processing circuit analyzes the image received from the camera (122) to assign a classification to the object included in the image. The processing circuit is configured to thereupon cause the spout to direct fluid into the sink with fluid flow characteristics that correspond to the classification of the object in the image.