Segmented Dual Handle Mechanism for Precise Faucet Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multiple axis control handles, such as single lever mixer faucets, require gross motor skill type movements, making it difficult for users to perform fine adjustments, leading to inefficiencies and water wastage due to the inability to precisely control water flow rate and temperature.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical multiple axis handle system that allows for gentle motor skill type movements by rotating about multiple axes, utilizing a movement transformation assembly to transform these movements into control commands for the faucet's cartridge, enabling independent control of water flow rate and temperature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a standard lever handle is used for controlling water flow rate and temperature, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates because gross motor skill movements make fine adjustments difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is divided into two separate handles: a first handle for controlling water flow rate and a second handle for controlling water temperature. Each handle can be operated independently, allowing users to make fine adjustments with each hand separately rather than attempting to control both parameters with one handle. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by providing fine adjustment capability without requiring a complex multi-axis mechanism.
2Measurement precision
If a single lever handle operating about two axes is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates because gross motor skill movements cannot achieve delicate adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The control mechanism is segmented into two independent single-axis handles rather than one two-axis handle. The first handle controls only water flow rate while the second handle controls only water temperature. This segmentation allows for precise control of each parameter independently using fine motor skills of the fingers and wrist, eliminating the imprecision associated with attempting to control two parameters simultaneously with one handle.
3Productivity
If a standard lever handle is used, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the productivity deteriorates because users waste time and water during adjustment attempts
Solution Approach 1:
The faucet is manufactured with two separate handles instead of one complex multi-axis handle. Each handle is a simple single-axis rotation mechanism that is easier to manufacture than a two-axis integrated handle. This segmentation improves productivity by allowing users to quickly and precisely adjust water flow rate and temperature independently, reducing the time and water wasted during adjustment attempts.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~1D
Figure 1E~1F
AI summary
A control mechanism for manually adjusting a plurality of control parameters, the control mechanism including a mechanical multiple axis handle movable about a plurality of axes of rotation for operating an operated device, wherein each of the axes of rotation pass through the handle, and a movement transformation assembly to transform rotational movements of the handle to control commands to the operated device.