Omni Configured Flapper System with Adjustable Buoyancy
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Consumers face difficulties in selecting the correct replacement flapper for flush valves due to variations in size and design, and retailers struggle to optimize retail space for product display and customer interaction while maintaining product protection and information visibility.
Innovation Solution
A flapper system that includes adjustable components such as upper and lower buoyancy domes, mounting arms, and adjustable fulcrums, allowing it to fit multiple flush valve sizes and seat types, along with innovative packaging that balances compactness with information display and protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single flapper system is designed to fit multiple flush valve sizes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flapper system is divided into separate modular components including a flapper main body, upper buoyancy dome, lower buoyancy domes, and mounting arms. This segmentation allows each component to be independently designed and configured to accommodate different flush valve sizes (2-inch and 3-inch seats) while maintaining overall system functionality. The modular design enables adaptability without requiring a completely different flapper system for each valve size.
Solution Approach 2:
The flapper system incorporates universal design features that enable a single system to perform multiple functions across different applications. The mounting arms with adjustable fulcrums and the configurable buoyancy dome arrangements allow the same flapper main body to interface with both 2-inch and 3-inch flush valve seats, providing multi-functionality that resolves the contradiction between versatility and complexity.
2Area of stationary object
If packaging size is reduced to optimize retail space, then space utilization is improved, but product protection and information display are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging design employs nesting by placing the flapper system components inside a compact container that can be displayed on retail shelves. The flapper main body, buoyancy domes, and mounting arms are arranged within the packaging in a space-efficient configuration that protects the items while maintaining a small footprint. This nested arrangement allows multiple flapper systems to be displayed in limited retail space without compromising product protection.
3Area of stationary object
If packaging size is reduced to optimize retail space, then space utilization is improved, but information display is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging design addresses information display by utilizing the exterior surfaces and display areas of the packaging container rather than increasing internal volume. Information such as product specifications, installation instructions, and compatibility details are presented on the packaging exterior and interior surfaces, allowing customers to access product information without requiring larger packaging. This dimensional approach to information display maintains compact packaging while preserving information accessibility.
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 system simplifies the selection process by accommodating different flush valve sizes and designs, enhancing product visibility and customer interaction while maintaining product protection and information display, and optimizing retail space utilization.
Implementation Method 1
upper buoyancy dome, a first lower buoyancy dome, a second lower buoyancy dome
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure is directed to a flapper system and a flapper system kit that is compatible with both 2″ and 3″ flush valve seats. In some embodiments, the flapper system is configured to enable a user to select either a 2″ or 3″ flush valve seal for the flapper system. In some embodiments, the flapper system includes a pivot that enables sealing of a flat flush valve seat or an angled flush valve seat. In some embodiments, the flapper system includes one or more adjustable window assemblies that control a fluid flowrate within an internal portion of the flapper system to control buoyancy. In some embodiments, the flapper system includes a packaging system that includes an external portion of an interior packaging that extends outside of a structural packaging resulting in a greater display area.