Faucet Sensor Positioning for Quick Hand Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing faucet fittings with sensors positioned at the spout or base result in cumbersome operation and increased false alarms due to long operating paths and design disruptions, respectively.
Innovation Solution
A faucet fitting with a sensor located on the arm pointing towards the operator, allowing for quick and easy control of water passage through the hose nozzle via a short hand movement, and featuring a sensor receptacle to protect against splashing water and minimize false triggering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the sensor is positioned at the spout or base of the faucet, then the detection range can cover the operator's hand, but the operating path becomes long making operation slow and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is positioned locally on the arm at a specific location that optimizes both detection accuracy and operating speed. This local positioning allows the sensor to detect hand approach accurately while keeping the hand movement path short, resolving the contradiction between reliable detection and easy operation.
2Reliability
If the sensor is positioned at the base of the faucet, then the detection range is sufficient, but false alarms increase due to handling objects in the basin
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is positioned on the arm at a location that provides sufficient detection range while being spatially separated from the basin area where objects are handled. This local positioning reduces exposure to false alarm sources while maintaining adequate detection capability.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If the sensor is positioned at the spout or base, then detection function is achieved, but the design of the faucet is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is integrated into the arm at a location that maintains the overall aesthetic design of the faucet. This local integration allows the sensor to be accommodated within the existing structure without disrupting the visual appearance or design integrity of the faucet.
4Ease of operation
If the sensor is exposed without protection, then accessibility is maintained, but the sensor is vulnerable to splashing water
Solution Approach 1:
A transparent cover is used to protect the sensor from splashing water while allowing the sensor to remain accessible for detection. This thin film barrier prevents water damage to the sensor while maintaining optical transparency for the detection function.
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 effortless and precise control of water flow with reduced false alarms and improved design aesthetics by positioning the sensor close to the hose nozzle, enhancing user experience and reducing operational complexity.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor can be designed as an infrared sensor and is preferably designed as an infrared sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
In order to create a fitting (100) comprising a base (102), a hose sprayer (116) and an arm (104) held on the base (102), wherein the arm (104) includes a hose sprayer receptacle (112) on which the hose sprayer (116) is releasably held in a rest position, in which the passage of water through the hose sprayer (116) can be controlled particularly easily and quickly by an operator, it is proposed that the fitting (100) include a sensor (156) for detecting the presence and/or movement of a hand of an operator in a detection area (164) of the sensor (156), wherein the sensor (156) is arranged on the arm (104).