Flapper Adapter for Toilet Overflow Pipe
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing flush valve systems require specific flappers that match the diameter of the lateral overflow pipe and articulation size, making it difficult to find compatible replacements, especially with the advent of more complex flushing mechanisms, leading to specialized and time-consuming disassembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a ring-shaped fastening element with recesses and lugs that can be pressure-fitted onto the overflow pipe, along with a flapper body and arms that articulate with the fastening element, allowing for flapper adaptation regardless of pipe diameter and articulation size, using an optional accessory to adjust the inner diameter and incorporating elastic material for automatic positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a specific flapper is selected to match the diameter of the lateral overflow pipe and articulation size, then the flapper can be properly installed and function correctly, but it becomes difficult to find compatible replacements when the original flapper deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the flapper assembly into separate components: the flapper body and the articulation element. The articulation element is detached from the overflow pipe and attached to the flapper body, allowing the flapper to be replaced independently of the pipe configuration. This segmentation enables universal flapper replacement across different pipe diameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary articulation element that mediates between the overflow pipe and the flapper body. This intermediate component adapts to different pipe diameters and provides a standardized interface for the flapper, solving the compatibility issue between specific pipe sizes and flapper replacements.
2Reliability
If the complete valve base is replaced to ensure compatibility, then functional reliability is restored, but the disassembly process requires specialized tools and extended time
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the articulation element from the valve base assembly and reattaches it to the flapper body. This extraction allows replacement of only the flapper and articulation element rather than the entire valve base, significantly reducing replacement time and eliminating the need for specialized disassembly tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention makes the articulation element detachable and movable between the valve base and flapper body. This dynamic design allows flexible reconfiguration for replacement purposes while maintaining structural integrity during operation, enabling quick swaps without permanent modifications.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the articulation element remains fixed to the overflow pipe, then the flapper articulation is stable, but the flapper cannot be replaced when deteriorated
Solution Approach 1:
The invention prepares the articulation element for potential replacement by designing it as a separate, attachable component rather than a permanent fixture. This preliminary design decision maintains stable articulation during normal operation while pre-enabling easy replacement when the flapper deteriorates, without requiring modifications to the overflow pipe.
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 the installation of flappers on valve bases with lateral overflow pipes of varying diameters without the need for specialized tools or disassembly, simplifying the replacement process and ensuring compatibility across different configurations.
Implementation Method 1
The fastening element is made of an elastic material. In order for the lug to be able to partially deform the recess before being inserted into the housing (11)
Data Source
AI summary
A device for adapting a flapper of a flush valve of a toilet tank to a valve base with a lateral overflow pipe, includes a fastening element for fastening to the lateral overflow pipe, which has a ring or cylinder shape with a low height and which includes a pair of recesses able to house lugs arranged in the lateral overflow pipe, and which further includes a pair of lugs arranged in opposite positions in a section of the fastening element; and a flapper made up of a flapper body and a pair of arms arranged in the upper portion of the flapper body, the end of each arm including a housing adapted to house the lugs of the fastening part.