Sanitary Actuating Element Mode Switching via Dual Sensor Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuating elements for sanitary facilities, such as toilets and urinals, have complex and error-prone parameterization processes that require specialized knowledge and mechanical manipulations, limiting user accessibility and susceptibility to incorrect settings.
Innovation Solution
A method using two actuation sensors and two optical display elements to switch from an operating mode to a setting mode by simultaneous activation, allowing parameter adjustment with clear visual feedback through color changes and unique display shapes for menu and parameter selection, enabling users to set parameters without mechanical manipulations and reducing incorrect actuations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If parameterization is enabled on actuating elements, then functionality and adaptability are improved, but the complexity of setting parameters increases and requires specialist knowledge
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical manipulation (moving hand over sensor limits) with an electronic touch interface. Users interact with a display panel by touching specific areas corresponding to parameters, eliminating the need for mechanical movements and specialist knowledge about sensor ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
The display panel serves as an intermediary between the user and the parameter settings. Instead of directly manipulating sensors or mechanical components, users interact with visual representations on the display, which then translates their selections into actual parameter changes.
2Ease of operation
If hand movement over sensor limits is used for parameter setting, then parameter adjustment is possible, but the method becomes susceptible to incorrect manipulation and requires crossing multiple limits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical hand-movement-based sensor activation with an electronic touch interface. Users simply touch the display panel at specific locations to select parameters, eliminating the need to understand or cross sensor effective ranges and preventing incorrect manipulations.
Solution Approach 2:
The display panel uses color changes and visual feedback to clearly indicate which parameter is being set and the current state of settings. This provides unambiguous feedback to users, preventing incorrect manipulations through clear visual confirmation of their actions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed pictograms are used for function indication, then function display is standardized, but modifications to products are not permitted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic display system where the panel can show different parameters and settings based on user interaction. Instead of fixed pictograms, the display adapts to show relevant information and allows users to navigate through different parameters, enabling product modifications while maintaining clarity.
Solution Approach 2:
The display panel serves multiple functions: it displays information, receives user input, provides feedback, and enables parameter adjustment. This multi-functional approach replaces fixed pictograms with a versatile interface that can adapt to different parameters and settings.
4Reliability
If single sensor activation is used for mode switching, then operation is simple, but incorrect actuation cannot be prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensing functions into a single integrated touch display interface. Instead of using separate sensors for different functions, the display panel integrates information display and input reception, where touching different areas serves different purposes. This prevents incorrect actuation while maintaining simplicity.
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
Facilitates easy and reliable parameter setting for users, preventing errors and allowing adjustments without mechanical manipulations, enhancing user experience and reducing complexity in setting functions like flush volume and display functions.
Implementation Method 1
The method includes the step of changing the color of at least one of the display elements as soon as the actuating element has been placed in the setting mode
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4
Figure 5
AI summary
The method involves displacing the operating element (1) from an operating mode (B) to an adjusting mode (E), in which the parameters (P) are adjusted on simultaneous activation of two operating sensors (2,3) over a predetermined time period. A display pattern, particularly the color of one of the display elements (4,5) is changed when the operating element is displaced in the adjusting mode. Independent claims are included for the following: (1) an operating element with a disk; and (2) a sanitary device with a water valve.