Pull-Out Faucet Outlet Panel Assembly for Multi-Outlet Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing pull-out faucets lack a straightforward method to add multiple water outlets without modifying the original faucet structure or adding complex switching mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

A water outlet panel assembly comprising a water outlet panel, an adapter member, and a control member, which can be detachably connected to a pull-out faucet, allowing for switching between a water outlet port and a water outlet terminal without additional control mechanisms.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multi-outlet faucets are developed with additional switching mechanisms, then the number of water outlets is increased, but the device complexity and modification requirements increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of water outletsVSAvoidswitching mechanisms
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention divides the water outlet system into separate functional modules: the original pull-out faucet structure and the additional water outlet panel. Each module operates independently with its own water supply path, eliminating the need for complex switching mechanisms to control water flow between outlets.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The adapter member serves multiple functions: it connects to the original pull-out pipe, provides sealing for water flow control, and enables both the original pull-out outlet and the additional panel outlets to operate simultaneously or independently using the same water supply.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multi-outlet faucets are developed with modifications to original structure, then the number of water outlets is increased, but the ease of installation and compatibility with original faucets deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of water outletsVSAvoidmodification requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter member acts as an intermediary component that bridges the original pull-out faucet structure and the additional water outlet panel. It connects to the existing pull-out pipe without requiring modifications to the original faucet body, valve seat, or internal water control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The additional water outlet panel and adapter member are nested onto the existing pull-out pipe structure. The adapter member fits over the pull-out pipe, and the water outlet panel is mounted on the adapter, creating a nested configuration that adds functionality without altering the original faucet.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Device complexity

If a single pull-out tube is used, then the faucet structure remains simple, but the water distribution flexibility and multi-outlet capability are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefaucet structureVSAvoidwater distribution options
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extends the water distribution system from a single-point outlet (pull-out tube) to a multi-point distribution panel. The water outlet panel provides multiple outlet positions arranged in different spatial configurations, enabling water distribution to multiple locations simultaneously while maintaining the simple single-handle control of the original faucet.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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

Enables the attachment of multiple water outlets to an original pull-out faucet without altering its structure, providing flexible water distribution options while maintaining the faucet's original functionality.

Implementation Method 1

the elastic member abuts the movable switching member. When the second water outlet is controlled not to be in communication with the water outlet port by the control member, the movable switching member is pushed by a water pressure in the cavity to overcome an elastic force of the elastic member so as to enable the movable switching member to be moved to the second position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic force: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

the movable switching member is pushed by a water pressure in the cavity to overcome an elastic force of the elastic member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWater pressure: Pressure Increase

Data Source

PatentUS12331499B2Pull-out faucet and water outlet panel assembly configured to be connected to pull-out faucet
Publication Date: 2025.06.17 XIAMEN LOTA INT CO LTD
  • US12331499B2 patent drawing
  • US12331499B2 patent drawing
  • US12331499B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A water outlet panel assembly configured to be connected to a pull-out faucet comprises a water outlet panel, an adapter member, and a control member. The water outlet panel is detachably connected to a faucet body of the pull-out faucet, and the water outlet panel comprises a water outlet port. The adapter member comprises a water inlet, a first water outlet, and a second water outlet, and the water inlet and the first water outlet are detachably connected to a pull-out pipe of the pull-out faucet. When the second water outlet is controlled to be in communication with the water outlet port by the control member, the first water outlet is controlled to be closed by the adapter member, and when the second water outlet is controlled not to be in communication with the water outlet port by the control member, the first water outlet is controlled to be opened.