Flush Tank Operating Device with Segmented Linkage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional operating devices for flush water tank assemblies face challenges in controlling the amount of flush water supplied to toilets within regulation limits, leading to inefficiencies in water conservation and compromised operability due to the constant linkage between the operating member and pulley, which results in longer valve opening times and limited operability.
Innovation Solution
An operating device with a rotary shaft, an operating member, a linking member, and a drive unit that includes a rotary winding member and a locking mechanism, allowing for precise control of the discharge valve opening and closing, enabling rapid movement to a fully open position and subsequent closure, thus regulating the flush water amount supplied.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the operating member and pulley are mutually constantly linked, then the operating mechanism is simple and reliable, but the valve opening time becomes longer and the operability is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the linkage between the operating member and discharge valve main body into two distinct phases: a constant linkage phase (first linkage state) where the operating member and pulley are connected to ensure reliable operation, and a release phase (second linkage state) where the linkage is released to enable rapid valve closure. This segmentation allows the system to switch between reliability and rapid response based on operational needs.
2Quantity of substance
If the operating member operating time is extended to supply sufficient flush water, then the flush water amount increases, but the valve opening time exceeds the regulated flush water amount limit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic linkage mechanism where the connection between the operating member and discharge valve main body changes during operation. Initially, the constant linkage ensures sufficient water supply by maintaining the valve open long enough for flushing. When the discharge valve main body reaches its fully open position, the linkage is automatically released, allowing the valve to close rapidly. This dynamic adjustment enables the system to supply adequate flush water while keeping the total valve opening time within regulated limits.
3Quantity of substance
If the discharge valve opening time is shortened to conserve water, then the flush water amount is controlled within regulation limits, but the operability and ease of use are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a self-service mechanism where the discharge valve main body automatically releases from the operating member's control when it reaches the fully open position. This self-release function eliminates the need for the user to manually control the valve closure timing, maintaining ease of use. The mechanism automatically ensures that the valve opens long enough for effective flushing but closes rapidly to conserve water, achieving both water conservation and user-friendly operation.
Data Source
AI summary
An operating device for a flush water tank assembly includes: a rotary shaft, an operating handle, an operating wire, and a drive unit, wherein the drive unit includes: a rotary member, a rotary winding member, a locking unit for mutually locking the rotary member and the rotary winding member when the rotary winding member rotates in a forward rotational direction from operating position P1 and reaches operating position P3, and a lock release portion for releasing the lock between the rotary member and the rotary winding member when the rotary member and the rotary winding member rotate in a forward rotational direction from operating position P1 and reach operating position P3.