Integrated Faucet Valve Assembly for Low-Wiring Multi-Device Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic faucets with solenoid valves and temperature sensors are costly due to complex wiring and susceptibility to damage, and require multiple controllers for each dispensing device, increasing system complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
An integrated solenoid valve assembly with a controller mounted directly to the valve assembly, including a processor and solenoid coil, and a temperature sensor positioned outside the valve housing with a heat transfer device, allowing for reduced wiring and integration with secondary dispensing devices via a port for control and power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the controller is located away from the solenoid valve with wired connections, then the control function is achieved, but the wiring complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is integrated directly into the solenoid valve assembly, combining previously separate components (controller, solenoid valve, temperature sensor) into a single unified unit. This eliminates the need for external wiring and wire connections, reducing both wiring complexity and susceptibility to connection damage while maintaining full control functionality.
2Reliability
If the temperature sensor is encapsulated in epoxy-filled casing within the waterway, then the temperature detection function is achieved, but the susceptibility to damage and leaking increases
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature sensor is integrated directly into the controller circuit board, eliminating the need for a separate encapsulated casing and wire routing through the waterway. The sensor is positioned to detect water temperature directly while being electrically connected to the controller via the circuit board, reducing both complexity and potential failure points.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate controllers are used for each dispensing device, then the control function for each device is achieved, but the system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated controller is designed to control multiple dispensing devices (electronic faucet, soap dispenser, hand dryer) through a single multi-functional unit. The controller can selectively activate different solenoid valves and control different devices based on sensor input, eliminating the need for separate controllers for each device while maintaining full control capability for all functions.
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
This design reduces wiring complexity and cost, enhances durability by minimizing damage susceptibility, and allows for centralized control of multiple dispensing devices, improving operational efficiency and reducing overall system expenses.
Implementation Method 1
a heat transfer device. The heat transfer device extends between the temperature sensor and the interior region to transfer heat from fluid in the interior region to the temperature sensor
Implementation Method 2
The solenoid valve includes a solenoid coil and a moveable valve member operably coupled to the moveable valve member
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic faucet includes a spout, a fluid supply conduit supported by the spout, and a valve assembly including an electrically operable valve. A controller is coupled to the valve assembly and includes a processor operative to control the electrically operable valve to control fluid flow through the fluid supply conduit. The controller includes a port in communication with the processor, the port being releasably coupled to electronics of a secondary device.