Frequency Modulated Sprayer Vibration Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional sprayers lack the ability to dynamically control the shape and flow of water streams, limiting their versatility and efficiency in various applications.

Innovation Solution

A frequency modulated sprayer system that includes a fluid carrier and a vibration source, where the vibration source is coupled to the fluid carrier between the inlet and outlet, allowing the sprayer to switch between different modes of operation to alter the water stream's shape and pattern, using an electronically driven vibration mechanism influenced by adjustable signal generators and amplifiers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a conventional sprayer is used, then the structure is simple, but the ability to control water stream shape and flow is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to control water stream shape and flowVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies mechanical vibration through a vibration source (such as a piezoelectric element or electromagnetic actuator) that vibrates the fluid carrier at controlled frequencies. This vibration modifies the water stream shape and flow pattern dynamically, enabling multiple spray patterns (e.g., stream, spray, shower) from a single device without requiring multiple nozzles or complex mechanical moving parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #18Mechanical vibration

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes physical parameters of the fluid carrier (such as vibration frequency, amplitude, and mode) to achieve different water stream configurations. By adjusting these parameters electronically, the system can switch between different spray patterns on demand, providing high adaptability without proportionally increasing structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple spray patterns are achieved through multiple nozzles, then spray pattern versatility is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespray pattern versatilityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes a single fluid carrier perform multiple functions by enabling it to produce different spray patterns through vibration. Instead of manufacturing separate nozzles for each spray pattern, one universal fluid carrier is designed that can dynamically adapt to produce various patterns (stream, spray, shower, etc.), significantly simplifying manufacturing while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical nozzle systems with an electronically controlled vibration system. Instead of having multiple physical nozzles or mechanically adjustable components, the system uses electronic signals to drive the vibration source, which in turn modifies the water stream. This substitution reduces manufacturing complexity, assembly requirements, and maintenance needs while achieving the same or greater functional versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 precise control over the shape and flow of water streams, allowing for multiple patterns and shapes, enhancing the sprayer's functionality and adaptability in applications such as faucets, showers, and car washers.

Implementation Method 1

the vibration source is configured to oscillate the fluid carrier such that water is emitted from the outlet in a second pattern

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVibration: Vibration

Data Source

PatentUS10358801B2Frequency modulated sprayer
Publication Date: 2019.07.23 KOHLER CO(US)
  • US10358801B2 patent drawing
  • US10358801B2 patent drawing
  • US10358801B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A sprayer including a fluid carrier having an inlet configured to receive water from a water source and an outlet for emitting water, and including a vibration source coupled to a portion of the fluid carrier between the inlet and the outlet. When the sprayer is in a first mode of operation, water is emitted from the outlet in a first pattern; and when the sprayer is in a second mode of operation, the vibration source is configured to oscillate the fluid carrier such that water is emitted from the outlet in a second pattern.