Plumbing Fitting Turbulent Mixing Chamber Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water outlets lack effective mixing of hot and cold water streams and are aesthetically uninteresting, with plumbing fittings being primarily utilitarian in design.
Innovation Solution
A plumbing fitting with an elongate spout and partially conjoined globular structures that form a turbulent mixing chamber, incorporating a control valve and handle for selective water flow, and a distinctive shape representing human male genitalia, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If hot and cold water are introduced into the tube from control valve in close proximity to the spigot passage, then the device complexity is reduced, but the mixing effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a separate mixing chamber dimension distinct from the simple proximal inlet arrangement. Hot and cold water are introduced into separate chambers where mixing occurs through turbulent flow patterns created by the chamber geometry, rather than simple proximity mixing in a single passage.
Solution Approach 2:
The mixing chamber acts as an intermediary element between the control valve and the spigot passage. It provides a dedicated space where hot and cold water streams can interact and mix thoroughly before entering the dispensing tube, mediating the transition from separate streams to mixed output.
2Manufacturing precision
If traditional cylindrical or ovoid tubing of constant cross section is used, then the manufacturing precision is simplified, but the aesthetic appeal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The spout is segmented into distinct functional zones: a mixing chamber portion and a dispensing tube portion. The mixing chamber has a different cross-sectional profile (elliptical or oval) compared to the dispensing tube, allowing each segment to be optimized for its function while contributing to overall aesthetic interest through geometric variation.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the spout have different geometric qualities - the mixing chamber portion features an elliptical or oval cross-section for enhanced mixing, while the dispensing tube has a different profile. This local variation in geometry provides aesthetic diversity without compromising manufacturing feasibility.
3Ease of manufacture
If plumbing fittings are designed with utilitarian configurations, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the aesthetic appeal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mixing chamber serves multiple functions: it provides a space for turbulent mixing of hot and cold water, acts as a transition zone between the control valve and spigot passage, and contributes to the aesthetic appearance of the fitting. This multi-functionality allows aesthetic enhancement without proportionally increasing manufacturing complexity.
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 fitting ensures thorough mixing of hot and cold water streams while providing an aesthetically appealing alternative to traditional designs, improving user experience through efficient water dispensing and visual interest.
Implementation Method 1
said generally globular structures communicate with a water inlet or inlets of said fitting and with said elongate spout so as to provide a turbulent water mixing chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A plumbing fitting for dispensing of hot and cold water or a mixture thereof; said fitting including an elongate spout or spigot and a mounting portion for locating said plumbing fitting at a surface; said elongate spout provided with a dispensing orifice arranged at an underside of said elongate spout and proximate a tip portion of said spout; a passage through said spout communicating with said orifice and an inlet at said mounting portion; said plumbing fitting characterized in further including a pair of partially conjoined, generally globular structures at a base portion of said elongate spout.