Flexible Nozzle Spray Head for Continuous Pattern Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shower heads often have limited modes that do not meet user requirements for varying spray characteristics, making it difficult for users to choose or change the spray pattern during a shower.
Innovation Solution
A spray head with flexible nozzles and a control member that adjusts the angle of the discharge end relative to the spray plate, allowing continuous variation of the spray pattern between two end positions, enabling users to select a preferred pattern before or during use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple spray modes are provided by switching between different water channels and nozzle sets, then users can choose from different spray characteristics, but the device complexity increases and the number of modes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the nozzles flexible rather than rigid, allowing them to change orientation dynamically in response to water flow pressure. The nozzles can assume different spray patterns (e.g., rain mode, massage mode) by flexing at different angles without requiring mechanical switching mechanisms or multiple nozzle sets, thus providing spray pattern variety while maintaining simple structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state parameter of the nozzles from rigid to flexible, enabling them to deform under varying water pressure conditions. This parameter change allows a single nozzle structure to provide multiple spray characteristics by responding differently to pressure variations, eliminating the need for complex multi-channel switching mechanisms
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple spray modes are provided by switching between different water channels, then different spray characteristics can be achieved, but the ease of operation decreases due to limited modes and switching complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the self-service principle by designing nozzles that automatically adjust their spray pattern based on water flow pressure without requiring user intervention for switching. The flexible nozzles respond autonomously to pressure changes, providing different spray characteristics (gentle rain, strong massage) based on the selected tap mode, thereby simplifying operation while maintaining spray pattern variety
3Adaptability or versatility
If flexible nozzles are used to allow angle adjustment, then spray pattern versatility improves, but the reliability of fluid delivery may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses flexible nozzles made of elastomeric material that can deform to change spray angle while maintaining structural integrity. The flexible material allows the nozzle to bend and redirect water flow without compromising the sealing or connection integrity, thus providing spray pattern versatility while maintaining reliable fluid delivery through the flexible nozzle structure
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 users to choose from a range of spray patterns easily by moving the control member, providing a simple and effective solution for varying spray characteristics without affecting fluid flow or pressure.
Implementation Method 1
each nozzle being made of a flexible material... movement of the control member is adapted to adjust the angle of the discharge end of at least one nozzle relative to the spray plate and the inlet end of the nozzle
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 4~5
AI summary
A spray head (1) for an ablutionary appliance such as a shower comprises a body (2) with a fluid inlet (3), a spray plate (5) with a plurality of holes (6), and nozzles (7) of flexible material. Each nozzle (7) has an inlet end (19) for fluid and a discharge end (22) adapted to project through a corresponding hole (6) for discharge of the fluid, and a control member (8), movement of which is adapted to adjust the angle of the discharge end 22of at least one nozzle (7) relative to the spray plate (5) and the inlet end (19) of the nozzle (7), between two end positions.