Induction Faucet Switch for Automatic Manual Fallback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Infrared induction control boxes for faucets require manual switching to mechanical mode when batteries are discharged, leading to a complex structure and increased costs due to the need for additional switch valves, and they cannot function as traditional faucets without power.

Innovation Solution

A switch that automatically switches the faucet to a mechanical valve mode when the induction control component is not in a working state, using a control program to detect voltage levels and an indicator light to signal low battery, allowing for seamless transition to manual mode without additional switch valves.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a manual switch valve is added to enable mechanical mode switching, then the faucet can function without power, but the structure becomes complex and cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefaucet functionality without powerVSAvoidsolenoid valve water circuit structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the manual switching function with the existing solenoid valve by integrating a manual operating mechanism directly onto the solenoid valve body. This allows the solenoid valve to be operated manually when power is unavailable, eliminating the need for a separate manual switch valve and maintaining a simple water circuit structure while ensuring the faucet can function without power.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The solenoid valve is designed to serve dual purposes: it can be controlled electrically when power is available and operated manually when power is unavailable. This multi-functionality allows a single component to handle both powered and unpowered operating modes, reducing the need for additional components and simplifying the overall system structure.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If a manual switch valve is added to enable mechanical mode switching, then the faucet can function without power, but the cost increases due to additional components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefaucet functionality without powerVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the manual switching function with the existing solenoid valve by integrating a manual operating mechanism directly onto the solenoid valve body. This allows the solenoid valve to be operated manually when power is unavailable, eliminating the need for a separate manual switch valve and maintaining a simple water circuit structure while ensuring the faucet can function without power.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If the induction control box uses battery power, then non-contact induction control is achieved, but the system fails when battery is discharged

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenon-contact induction controlVSAvoidcontinuous water supply
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates a low-voltage warning indicator that alerts users when the battery is nearing depletion. This advance warning allows users to replace the battery before complete discharge occurs, ensuring continuous reliable operation of the non-contact induction control system and preventing unexpected failure of the water supply function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS11619318B2Switch, induction control box comprising the same, and induction faucet
Publication Date: 2023.04.04 GUANGZHOU SEAGULL KITCHEN AND BATH PRODUCTS CO LTD
  • US11619318B2 patent drawing
  • US11619318B2 patent drawing
  • US11619318B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The disclosure discloses a switch configured to switch an on-off state of a liquid flow conduit to a working mode controlled by a mechanical valve when an induction control component is detected not to be in a working state. The disclosure further discloses an induction control box including the switch, and an induction faucet including: a faucet having a automatic switch mode and a manual switch mode; a sensor arranged on the faucet; a solenoid valve arranged on a water output path and connected with the sensor, wherein when the sensor and solenoid valve are in a working state, the faucet supplies water by automatic switch mode; and a switch configured to switch the faucet from the automatic switch mode to manual switch mode when the sensor and/or the solenoid valve are detected not to be in the working state.