Hose Motion Sensor Valve System for Hands-Free Water Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hose nozzle systems require manual operation to control water flow, which can be cumbersome and inefficient, especially when both hands are needed for other tasks or when continuous water flow is not desired.
Innovation Solution
A hose motion sensor valve system that uses a motion sensor valve coupled with a hose, allowing water flow to be controlled by breaking a light curtain with a hand, enabling quick and efficient activation and deactivation of water flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation (lever or turn valve) is used to control water flow, then the valve can be operated, but it is difficult or cumbersome when hands are preoccupied
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical operation (lever or turn valve) with an automatic sensor-based system. A motion sensor detects hand presence and automatically activates the solenoid valve to open the water flow, eliminating the need for manual manipulation. This resolves the contradiction by providing ease of operation through automation while adapting to scenarios where hands are preoccupied.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service operation where the valve automatically responds to user presence without requiring manual activation. The motion sensor and solenoid valve work together to automatically control water flow based on detected motion, allowing the system to serve itself and the user without requiring hand operation.
2Loss of substance
If water flow is turned on and off manually at hose bib or nozzle, then flow control is achieved, but it is time consuming and less water efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual on/off operation with automatic sensor-controlled solenoid valve operation. The motion sensor continuously monitors for hand presence and automatically activates or deactivates the water flow, eliminating the time required for manual operation and preventing water waste by ensuring flow only occurs when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control where the motion sensor continuously monitors hand presence and provides real-time feedback to the solenoid valve. When motion is detected, the valve opens; when motion ceases, the valve closes. This automatic feedback loop eliminates time consumption and prevents water waste by precisely controlling flow duration.
3Loss of substance
If continuous water flow is used, then water is always available, but water is wasted when not needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the need for manual on/off control with automatic sensor-based control. The motion sensor detects when a user approaches or intends to use the hose and automatically activates the solenoid valve to enable water flow. When no motion is detected, the valve automatically closes, conserving water without requiring manual intervention, thus maintaining convenience while preventing waste.
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 system provides a convenient and efficient means to control water flow without manual operation, conserving water by allowing flow to be turned on and off as needed, and is suitable for various applications such as washing vehicles or pets, and watering lawns or gardens.
Implementation Method 1
A light curtain may include visible and/or non-visible light or electromagnetic radiation, including light from a light emitting diode. An exemplary motion sensor detects when a light curtain in broken.
Implementation Method 2
The light emitter may include a light emitting diode.
Data Source
AI summary
A portable hose stand system enables the user to project a stream of water from a water hose or hose nozzle in a fixed direction. A hose receiver is configured to receive and retain a hose and is coupled with pivot to allow adjustment of a desire water flow direction and a pivot retainer locks in a desired position. The hose receive is configured on an extended end of a hose extension that extends from a stand body. Retractable legs extend down from the stand body and pivot away from each other to provide a stable base. Water flow may be controlled through the use of a motion sensor valve. Lastly, a wall mount serves as a receiver for the portable hose stand system as a faucet and/or shower.