Integrated Mixing Module Control Unit for Compact Water Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mixing modules for generating mixed water have a complex structure and require significant space and installation effort due to external control units and separate components, making them cumbersome and difficult to assemble.

Innovation Solution

The mixing module integrates all structural units, including the temperature and volume control unit, water distribution element, and electronic control module, within a flush-mounted installation box, with mechanically actuated shut-off valves and silencers for maintenance, and an electronic control module connected via cable for compact design and simplified assembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the control unit is arranged outside the mixing module, then the mixing module can be controlled, but the construction and installation effort increases and the mixing module requires more space

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol capabilityVSAvoidconstruction and installation effort
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates the control unit directly into the mixing module housing, merging previously separate components (control unit and mixing module) into a single integrated unit. This eliminates the need for external control units and reduces the number of separate installations required, directly addressing the contradiction by maintaining control capability while reducing construction complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Ease of operation

If the mixing module includes temperature and volume control devices, then mixing control is achieved, but the structure becomes complicated and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetemperature and volume controlVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit with temperature and volume control devices is integrated into the mixing module housing, combining multiple control functions into a single unified structure. This merging approach maintains full temperature and volume control capability while simplifying the overall structure by eliminating the need for separate external control devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of manufacture

If all structural units are integrated in the flush-mounted installation box, then the mixing module becomes compact and easier to assemble, but the control unit can no longer be arranged externally

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly easeVSAvoidexternal control accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit is integrated into the mixing module housing within the flush-mounted installation box, creating a compact self-contained unit. This integration simplifies assembly by reducing the number of separate components and connection points, while the control functions remain fully accessible through the integrated control interface on the module itself.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP2468966B1Control unit for mixed water
Publication Date: 2013.10.16 IDEAL STANDARD INT
  • EP2468966B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The flush-mounted installation box (40) comprises a mixing module (10) for connecting a water outlet (60) for the produced mixing water, and a temperature and volume control unit (22), which is arranged adjustable in the interior of the flush-mounted installation box for setting the temperature and amount of the mixing water. A junction box module (26) is provided, which is connected in the installation box on one part of the temperature and volume control unit and on the other side to an operating unit (34).