Programmable Shower Interface for Unified Outlet And Temperature Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional shower systems rely on mechanical user interface controls that operate independently, lacking a unified and intuitive method for controlling various shower components, such as temperature and flow, which can be cumbersome for users.
Innovation Solution
A shower control system featuring an electronic display with a graphical user interface that allows users to interactively control shower outlets through a controller, enabling adjustments to water temperature and flow, and incorporating features like temperature profiles and pre-programmed shower experiences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mechanical user interface controls are used for shower systems, then the system structure is simple and reliable, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to lack of unified control and intuitive interface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical user interface controls with an electronic display and controller system. The electronic display presents a graphical user interface that allows users to control multiple shower components through touch or other input methods, eliminating the need for separate mechanical controls for each shower outlet.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic controller serves multiple functions by managing various shower outlets, temperature control, and user interface operations through a single unified system. The graphical user interface provides comprehensive control over the entire shower system from one interface, making the system more versatile and easier to operate.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple independent mechanical controls are provided for different shower outlets, then each control can be operated independently, but the device complexity increases and the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control functions for multiple shower outlets into a single electronic controller with a graphical user interface. The system allows selective control of individual outlets while providing unified management through one interface, reducing the number of separate controls and simplifying the overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The graphical user interface divides the shower system into controllable segments or zones, allowing users to select and control specific shower outlets independently while maintaining overall system integration. This segmentation enables flexible control without requiring separate physical controls for each outlet.
3Ease of operation
If conventional mechanical controls are used, then the device complexity is low, but the ease of operation worsens due to lack of intuitive control method
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical controls with an electronic display and controller system that provides an intuitive graphical user interface. This substitution improves ease of operation by allowing users to interact with the shower system through a visual interface that can display outlet locations, temperature settings, and control options in an intuitive manner.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic controller acts as an intermediary between the user and the shower system components. It receives user inputs through the graphical interface and translates them into appropriate control signals for the various shower outlets, providing a mediating layer that simplifies user interaction while managing system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A shower generally includes a shower enclosure, various shower systems having output devices, and a control panel having an electronic display and configured for receiving user inputs. Shower control systems and methods are provided for receiving and processing user inputs, displaying a graphical user interface on the electronic display, and controlling outputs of the various output devices.