Roller-Driven Trip Lever with Clutch Assembly for Consistent Flushing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional flush levers in toilets allow users to control the open and close time of the flapper valve or canister, which can lead to inconsistent flushing performance.
Innovation Solution
A flush lever with a clutch mechanism, comprising a handle, a torsion spring, and a roller assembly, which mechanically links the flush handle to the flush lever within the tank, allowing the flapper valve to be lifted and closed without user control over the open and close time, utilizing a torsion spring for automatic return to the neutral position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional flush levers are used, then users can control the open and close time of the flapper valve, but this leads to inconsistent flushing performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the control function from the user-operated handle and transfers it to an automatic timing mechanism. The handle simply initiates the flush by releasing the clutch, while the actual timing and duration of flapper valve operation are controlled by the automatic mechanism, thereby eliminating user variability while maintaining ease of initiation.
Solution Approach 2:
The flush lever system performs its own timing and control functions automatically without requiring user intervention during the flush cycle. The mechanism self-regulates the flapper valve operation duration through its internal timing mechanism, making the system self-sufficient and consistent regardless of user behavior.
2Reliability
If gravity-based flush lever mechanisms are used, then the structure is simple, but the open and close time of the flapper valve cannot be precisely controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic elements including a torsion spring for energy storage and release, a roller that moves along a cam surface, and a clutch mechanism that engages and disengages timing control. These dynamic components enable precise timing control while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure that can be manufactured and assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The torsion spring is pre-loaded when the handle is pressed, storing energy that will automatically drive the timing sequence. The cam surface is pre-configured with specific geometric profiles that determine the timing characteristics, allowing precise control to be built into the structure before operation occurs.
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
Ensures consistent and automatic flushing performance by eliminating user control over the flapper valve's operation, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of the flushing mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
In pushing the flush handle, a torsion spring in the handle is loaded and, upon release of the handle, the torsion spring returns the handle, push rod assembly, and roller assembly to their original positions.
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly comprises an outer subassembly, a toilet tank, and an inner subassembly. The outer subassembly further comprises a handle, a handle stop, a torsion spring disposed between the handle and the handle stop, and a tank hole seal. The inner subassembly further comprises a mounting plate to receive the outer subassembly. A drive pin is coupled to the mounting plate. The inner subassembly further comprises a flush lever and a roller subassembly.