Sensor-Actuated Bath Drain Closure Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Bathtubs can overflow even with overflow drains due to insufficient capacity or sudden entry, as existing systems lack a reliable mechanism to automatically open the bottom drain when the water level reaches a critical point.
Innovation Solution
A bathtub drain closure assembly featuring a sensor-actuated mechanism that toggles the bottom drain between open and closed positions based on water level detection, using a solenoid or motor actuating member to move the drain closure device, allowing water to drain when the level becomes too high.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an overflow drain is provided to prevent bathtub overflow, then safety is improved, but the bathtub can still overflow if the overflow drain capacity is insufficient or if a person suddenly enters an overfull bathtub
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by detecting the water level before overflow occurs and proactively opening the drain in advance. The sensor continuously monitors water level and triggers drain opening when the threshold is reached, preventing overflow before it happens rather than reacting after overflow begins.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by using a sensor to continuously monitor water level and automatically adjusting the drain state based on the detected level. When the water level reaches the predetermined threshold, the sensor signals the actuating mechanism to open the drain, creating a closed-loop control system that responds to actual conditions.
2Reliability
If a sensor-actuated mechanism is added to automatically open the bottom drain when water level reaches a critical point, then overflow prevention capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves self-service by automatically detecting water level and actuating the drain without requiring external intervention. The sensor and actuating mechanism work together to autonomously monitor and control the drain state, eliminating the need for manual operation while maintaining simple overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex mechanical level-sensing mechanisms with a simpler sensor-based detection system. Instead of using elaborate mechanical float valves or pressure systems, the invention uses electronic or optical sensors to detect water level, reducing mechanical complexity while improving reliability.
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
Prevents overflow by automatically opening the bottom drain when the water level reaches a predetermined height, ensuring safe and efficient drainage even when the bathtub is unattended.
Implementation Method 1
using a solenoid or motor actuating member to move the drain closure device
Implementation Method 2
A sensor, mounted in a position to detect the water level within the bathtub, provides a signal that changes the position of the actuating member
Data Source
AI summary
A bath drain assembly for use with a bathtub having a drain closure device mounted to a bottom drain and a movable actuating member engaging the drain closure device such that the drain closure device is toggled between open an closed positions when activated. A control device is in electronic communication with a sensor adapted to sense water level of fluid contained within the bathtub such that the drain closure device is moved to an open position via the actuating member when the sensor detects a given water level.