Flush-Mixed Module Integration for Sanitary Installation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing modular flush-mounted systems for temperature and volume control of water in sanitary installations have complex structures, require significant space, and feature external control units, making them difficult to assemble and install.

Innovation Solution

A compact flush-mounted installation box integrates the motor-driven temperature and volume control unit, water distribution element, and electronic control module, with the operating unit on the cover, using sealed plug-in connections and solenoid valves for simplified assembly and control, and an additional data line for control commands and status reports.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the control unit is arranged externally to the mixing module, then the mixing module structure is simplified, but the installation effort and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemixing module structureVSAvoidinstallation effort

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the control unit with the mixing module by integrating it into the installation box, creating a unified compact assembly. This merging eliminates the need for separate external control units while reducing overall installation space and effort, directly resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and ease of installation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The installation box serves multiple functions: it houses the mixing module, integrates the control unit, provides mounting structures, and facilitates cable management. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise be separate components, simplifying both the mixing module structure and the installation process simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple central line blocks and electric valves are arranged in the mixing module, then the control functionality is enhanced, but the module size and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol functionalityVSAvoidmixing module structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent nests the control unit, distribution module, and cable management components within the installation box, which itself is integrated into the mixing module. This nested arrangement allows multiple functional elements to coexist in a compact configuration, enhancing control functionality without proportionally increasing overall module complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The installation box provides a three-dimensional space that efficiently organizes multiple line blocks and valves in vertical and lateral dimensions rather than spreading them out horizontally. This dimensional optimization allows complex control functionality to be achieved within a compact mixing module footprint.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Device complexity

If the operating unit is arranged outside the mixing module, then the mixing module internal structure is simplified, but the overall system requires more installation space

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemixing module internal structureVSAvoidinstallation space

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The operating unit is merged with the mixing module by integrating it into the installation box structure. This combination eliminates the need for separate external control housings and reduces the total installation space required, while the internal arrangement within the box maintains a simplified organizational structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The installation box acts as a flexible containment structure that can be mounted in various configurations (wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted, or recessed). This flexible mounting approach allows the integrated operating unit to adapt to different installation spaces without requiring additional volume, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and space efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

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

The solution provides a compact, easy-to-assemble mixing module with integrated control, reducing installation effort and space requirements while enabling efficient control of mixed water flow to sanitary fittings.

Implementation Method 1

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSolenoid: Solenoid

Implementation Method 2

A compact flush-mounted installation box integrates the motor-driven temperature and volume control unit, water distribution element, and electronic control module

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMotor-driven control: Linear Motor

Data Source

PatentEP2468964B1Modular flush-mounted system with a central flush-mounted mixed module

Publication Date: 2018.04.04 IDEAL STANDARD INT

Figure 1
Figure 2

AI summary

The system has a temperature and volume control unit (22) connected to water outlets (18, 19) of a water distribution element (50), and a mixed water outlet (11) connected to a flush module over a pipeline extending out of a mounting box (40). A manifold block (26) is arranged in the mounting box and connected to the control unit at one side and to an operating unit (34) at another side. The manifold block is connected to a power source i.e. battery, over a cable bushing (28) formed at the mounting box. An electronic control module (24) is connected to the manifold block.