Sensor-Controlled Faucet Nozzles for Precise Container Filling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional faucets lack precision in controlling water flow, often leading to overfilling of containers, as users struggle to adjust the handle to stop the water flow at the desired level, resulting in water wastage.
Innovation Solution
A faucet system incorporating a water level sensor and controller that detects the water level in a container and automatically shuts off the water flow when it reaches a predetermined distance from the outlet, using a multi-configuration spray head with angled and parallel nozzles to provide visual indication and precise filling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual handle control is used to initiate and stop water flow, then the faucet structure remains simple, but the precision of water level control deteriorates leading to overfilling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic feedback control by using a water level sensor to detect the water level in the container and automatically shutting off the water flow when the predetermined level is reached, eliminating the need for manual monitoring and improving water level control precision
Solution Approach 2:
The faucet system performs self-service by automatically detecting water level and controlling flow termination without user intervention, allowing the system to manage its own operation and achieve precise filling
2Productivity
If high rate water flow is used to fill container quickly, then productivity improves, but the difficulty of precise control increases leading to water wastage
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic feedback control system maintains high productivity by enabling rapid filling while continuously monitoring water level and automatically terminating flow at the precise moment the container reaches full capacity, eliminating the trade-off between speed and control precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control with an automated electronic control system that uses sensors and controllers to manage water flow, substituting human operation with a precise mechanical-electronic system that achieves both high speed and accurate control
3Loss of time
If manual monitoring and shut-off timing is required, then device complexity remains low, but loss of time occurs due to user attention and adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The faucet system achieves self-service by automatically monitoring water level and controlling flow termination without requiring user attention or timing adjustments, freeing the user from continuous monitoring and eliminating time loss
Solution Approach 2:
The automatic feedback control mechanism eliminates the need for user timing and monitoring by continuously sensing water level and autonomously controlling flow termination, transferring the control function from user to system
Data Source
AI summary
A faucet includes a spout, a water level sensor, and a controller. The spout includes a water outlet having a first set of nozzles oriented at an angle with respect to a central axis defined by the water outlet such that water discharged from the first set of nozzles converges at the central axis at a focal distance from the water outlet. The water level sensor is disposed on the spout, and is configured to detect a distance between the water outlet and a level of water in a container disposed below the water outlet. The controller is configured to control the flow of water through the water outlet based on a comparison between the detected distance and the focal distance.