Multi-functional tap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hand-washing facilities lack the flexibility and efficiency needed for public use, particularly in terms of hygiene and resource management.
Innovation Solution
A multi-functional tap with a timed cycle control system, featuring outlets for water, soap, and air, along with a sensor and control unit that manage the dispensing sequence and duration, allowing for customizable hand-washing cycles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate components are used for water, soap, and air dispensing, then functional versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines water dispensing, soap dispensing, and air dispensing functions into a single integrated tap body with a unified structure. The tap stem contains internal cavities that house all three conduit systems, allowing multiple functions to be delivered through one device rather than requiring separate fixtures for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The tap is designed as a universal hand-washing appliance that performs multiple functions: dispensing water for rinsing, dispensing liquid soap for cleaning, and dispensing air for drying hands. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate water faucet, soap dispenser, and air dryer units.
2Ease of operation
If manual operation is used for hand-washing facilities, then ease of operation is improved, but hygiene deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The tap system operates automatically without requiring manual contact. The sensor detects the presence of hands and automatically initiates the dispensing sequence for water, soap, and air. This self-service operation eliminates the need for users to touch buttons, knobs, or handles, thereby maintaining hygiene while ensuring ease of use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation (turning handles, pressing buttons) with an automatic sensor-based control system. The sensor detects hand presence and triggers the dispensing sequence electronically, substituting mechanical user interaction with an automated detection and response system that maintains hygiene.
3Ease of operation
If uncontrolled dispensing is used, then ease of operation is improved, but loss of substance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tap system employs a timed periodic dispensing cycle that automatically controls the duration of water flow, soap dispensing, and air blowing. The controller activates each function for a predetermined time period, ensuring that resources are dispensed for exactly the amount of time needed without continuous or excessive flow, thereby preventing waste while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor-based control system provides feedback by detecting hand presence and absence. When hands are detected, the system initiates the dispensing sequence; when hands are removed, the sequence terminates. This feedback mechanism ensures that water and soap are dispensed only when needed and for the appropriate duration, preventing unnecessary resource consumption.
4Reliability
If extended hand-washing duration is implemented, then hygiene is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a structured periodic sequence that delivers soap for a specific duration followed by water rinsing for a predetermined time, and concludes with air drying for a set period. This timed sequence ensures adequate hand-washing duration for hygiene purposes while automatically limiting the total time required, preventing excessive time consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The tap system maintains continuous useful action throughout the hand-washing process by seamlessly transitioning from soap dispensing to water rinsing to air drying without interruption. This continuous sequence ensures that the hand-washing process is completed efficiently in one uninterrupted cycle, maximizing hygiene effectiveness while minimizing total time required.
Data Source
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AI summary
A multi-functional tap is disclosed that includes a stem with an upstream end and a downstream end, the upstream end of the tap stem being configured to be secured to a support surface; a plurality of outlets provided at the downstream end of the tap stem and comprising a water outlet, a liquid soap outlet and an air outlet; a sensor provided by the tap stem and configured to initiate a timed cycle of water, liquid soap and air dispensing from the respective outlets; and a water conduit, a liquid soap conduit and an air conduit extending from the upstream end to the downstream end of the tap stem inside the cavity to provide water, liquid soap and air to the respective outlets.