Jet Regulator Spring Locking for Tool-Assisted Faucet Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing jet regulators for faucets are difficult to remove due to reliance on threaded connections and complex locking mechanisms, which can result in an aesthetically unpleasing design and complicate installation and removal processes.
Innovation Solution
A jet regulator with a locking mechanism that uses a spring element and a tool-operated unlocking mechanism, allowing for a force-locking and form-locking engagement, simplifying removal by decoupling the unlocking mechanism from the pulling mechanism, and enabling a more aesthetically pleasing design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a threaded connection is used to secure the jet regulator, then the connection is reliable, but the design becomes aesthetically unpleasing and requires additional space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the threaded connection mechanism from the faucet outlet design, extracting the securing function to a separate locking element that engages with the jet regulator housing. This eliminates the need for a protruding spout while maintaining secure attachment through the locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element acts as an intermediary between the faucet outlet and the jet regulator. It provides the securing function without requiring a threaded connection, thereby maintaining aesthetic appearance while ensuring reliable attachment.
2Reliability
If a complex locking mechanism is used to secure the jet regulator, then the connection is reliable, but the installation and removal processes become complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a locking element for securing the jet regulator, a spring element for providing locking force, and a tool with projections for engagement. This segmentation allows for simple operation while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element automatically provides the locking force when the locking element engages with the jet regulator housing, eliminating the need for manual tightening. The tool's projections automatically engage with the undercut when inserted, providing self-aligning installation.
3Reliability
If the locking element protrudes beyond the housing in rest position, then the jet regulator is securely held, but the aesthetic appearance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed to engage in a radial direction from the faucet outlet, creating a locking action that secures the jet regulator without requiring the locking element to protrude beyond the housing in the axial direction. This dimensional approach maintains aesthetic appearance while ensuring secure holding.
4Ease of operation
If the tool engages in an undercut to pull the jet regulator out, then the removal mechanism is simplified, but the undercut requires additional space in the housing
Solution Approach 1:
The undercut is oriented radially from the faucet outlet, allowing the tool's projection to engage with it in a direction perpendicular to the axial insertion path. This radial orientation enables the pulling mechanism to operate without requiring additional axial space within the housing.
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 solution facilitates easy and efficient removal of the jet regulator from the faucet outlet without the need for additional space, ensuring a clean aesthetic and reducing installation complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element (5) accessible from outside the faucet outlet (2) and/or wherein a force transmission from the spring element (5) to the locking element (4) is possible
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 5~7
Figure 8~9
AI summary
An aerator with a discharge structure comprising lamellae, wherein the lamellae (10) are directed outwards at least in a region (11) of the discharge structure (9) to generate a diverging water flow, wherein the directed lamellae (10) have a cross-section (14) oriented transversely to their extent, which has a curved outer contour, and the lamellae (10) in a central region (13) of the discharge structure (9) are straight.