Sanitary Fitting Gesture Object Detection Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sanitary fittings require multiple actuations and are limited in functionality and ease of use, as they necessitate manual handling and cannot automatically detect objects for continuous dispensing, leading to inefficiencies and water wastage.
Innovation Solution
A sanitary fitting equipped with a first sensor to detect user gestures and a second sensor to detect objects, connected to a control device that allows for hands-free operation, enabling automatic dispensing of liquid as long as an object is recognized, with features like contactless activation and adjustable temperature and flow rate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual actuation with multiple control elements is used, then temperature and flow rate can be adjusted, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring multiple steps and hand movements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical actuation with optical sensing systems (first sensor for gestures, second sensor for objects). The control device translates optical detection signals into automated control of the dispensing device, eliminating the need for manual lever or button operations while maintaining temperature and flow rate adjustment capabilities through automated control based on detected parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispensing device is equipped with sensors that automatically detect user needs and object presence, enabling the system to self-regulate the dispensing process. The control device autonomously adjusts temperature and flow rate based on sensor inputs without requiring manual intervention, allowing the system to serve itself in responding to user requirements.
2Productivity
If continuous manual dispensing is maintained, then liquid can be supplied continuously, but loss of substance increases due to water wastage when pot is not under dispensing point
Solution Approach 1:
The second sensor provides continuous feedback about object presence in the detection area. The control device uses this feedback to automatically start and stop the dispensing device, creating a closed-loop control system that supplies liquid only when needed. This eliminates continuous wasteful dispensing while ensuring productivity when an object (such as a container) is present.
3Extent of automation
If automatic object detection is implemented, then hands-free operation is enabled, but device complexity increases due to addition of sensors and control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The control device serves multiple functions: it processes signals from both the first sensor (gesture detection) and second sensor (object detection), regulates temperature through the adjustment device, controls flow rate, and manages the dispensing operation. By consolidating these functions into a single control unit, the patent achieves high automation without proportionally increasing overall system 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
Enhances user convenience, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness by allowing hands-free operation and automatic detection of objects for continuous dispensing, reducing water wastage and simplifying the filling process.
Implementation Method 1
a first sensor (21) designed to detect a user's gesture
Implementation Method 2
a second sensor (20) designed to detect objects
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a sanitary fitting comprising an adjustment device for adjusting the temperature of a liquid to be dispensed, in particular mixed water, and for adjusting the flow rate for the liquid to be dispensed, and a dispensing device for dispensing liquid by means of a spout, with a first sensor designed to detect a user's gestures, and a second sensor designed to detect objects, and whereby the sensors, the adjustment device and the dispensing device can be connected to a control device in such a way that the dispensing device can be controlled using the control device in such a way that the liquid is dispensed by the dispensing device on the basis of a detected first gesture, and whereby the liquid is dispensed by the dispensing device while an object is detected by the second sensor.