Thermostatic Mixing Valve Layout for Flush Temperature Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thermostatic mixing valves have spatial inefficiencies, particularly when a cover plate is used, leading to increased depth and profile due to the orthogonal orientation of temperature control mechanisms, which can be a challenge for low-profile installations like push-button flow valves.
Innovation Solution
The temperature regulator mechanism is oriented with its adjustment axis parallel to the plane of the external temperature control member, allowing for a geared coupling and a cover plate design where the external control is flush or recessed, reducing the overall depth and profile of the valve assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the temperature regulator adjustment axis is oriented orthogonally to the external temperature control member (conventional design), then the control mechanism can be easily accessed and operated, but the overall depth and profile of the valve assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reorients the temperature regulator adjustment axis from orthogonal to parallel with the plane of the external temperature control member. This dimensional change in the orientation of the adjustment axis allows the control mechanism to be compacted in the depth direction while maintaining operability through the cover plate, thereby reducing the overall profile of the valve assembly without sacrificing ease of operation
2Length of stationary object
If the temperature regulator mechanism is oriented with adjustment axis parallel to the cover plate plane (novel design), then the depth and profile of the valve assembly is reduced, but the mechanical coupling and transmission of rotational movement become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a geared coupling mechanism as an intermediary between the external temperature control member and the temperature regulator adjustment mechanism. This intermediary component transmits rotational movement from the control member through the cover plate to the adjustment mechanism, enabling the parallel orientation configuration while managing the mechanical complexity through a standardized gear transmission system
3Area of stationary object
If a cover plate is used to cover the flow components, then the aesthetic appearance and space efficiency are improved, but the external temperature control must project outwardly increasing the profile
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the orientation of the temperature regulator adjustment axis to be parallel with the cover plate plane, which allows the external temperature control member to be positioned flush with or recessed into the cover plate surface. This dimensional reorientation eliminates the need for the control to project outwardly, maintaining a low-profile appearance while still providing full functionality through the cover plate interface
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
This configuration enhances spatial economy, allowing for more compact installations while maintaining user accessibility and ease of servicing, as the mixing module can be reduced in depth and the external control member can be minimized in profile, offering improved installation flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
A temperature-sensitive element, usually comprising a body of heat-sensitive material such as expandable wax contained in an expandable chamber, is exposed to the output (mixed) flow. It connects to a movable drive component such as a piston rod, moved by expansion and contraction of the material
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
A temperature-controlled mixing valve (1), specifically a thermostatic shower valve, includes a mixing module (4) housing a thermostatic cartridge (10) for combining flows from the hot and cold inputs (7,8). The cartridge is arranged behind a cover plate (50) of the valve with the adjustment axis of its temperature regulator spindle (14) parallel to the cover plate. A rotatable external temperature control member (41), for actuation by a user to adjust the regulated temperature, is coupled to the temperature regulator shaft by means of a geared coupling (5). The external control member (41) can then be flush with an outward surface of the cover plate (50). The valve may include discrete flow modules (2,3), including push-button flow valves (24,34) for the hot and cold inputs, removably connected to the mixing module (4) via spigot connections so that the mixing module can be withdrawn separately for servicing.