Handheld Shower Head Flow Control Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional handheld shower heads lack the ability to adjust water flow rates, making them inconvenient for users who need to increase the flow rate or impact force.
Innovation Solution
A handheld shower head with a flow control device that includes a gasket, return spring, control valve shaft, and control button, allowing users to switch between different flow channels to control the water flow rate by moving the control valve shaft and gasket within the flow control chamber, enabling adjustable flow rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional handheld shower head is used, then the structure is simple, but the flow rate cannot be adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The shower head is divided into multiple flow channels (first flow channel, second flow channel, third flow channel) with different flow rates, and a flow control device with a gasket that can selectively close different outlets. This segmentation allows the system to offer multiple flow rate options while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow control device incorporates a movable gasket that can be actuated by a control button to dynamically switch between different flow channels. This dynamic mechanism enables flow rate adjustment without requiring a completely complex valve system, as the gasket simply moves to block different outlets based on user demand.
2Quantity of substance
If the flow rate is increased, then the water discharge volume increases, but the impact force cannot be enhanced
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides three distinct flow channels with different characteristics: a first flow channel for high flow rate (increased water discharge volume), a second flow channel for normal flow rate, and a third flow channel for low flow rate. This segmentation allows users to select the appropriate flow rate for different needs, including scenarios requiring both high volume and high impact force.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the flow rate parameter by providing multiple flow channels with different cross-sectional areas and flow characteristics. The first flow channel is designed with parameters that enable both increased water discharge volume and enhanced impact force, allowing the system to satisfy different user requirements through parameter variation rather than adding complex mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If a flow control device is added, then the flow rate becomes adjustable, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control device uses a simple dynamic mechanism where a control button moves a gasket along the control valve shaft to selectively close different flow channels. This dynamic but simple design provides ease of operation (users can easily press the button to adjust flow rate) while minimizing internal mechanism complexity (no complex valves, motors, or electronic components are needed).
Solution Approach 2:
The flow control device is designed to be self-operating through the control button mechanism that directly actuates the gasket movement. The system does not require external power sources, complex control circuits, or additional actuators, making it easy to operate while keeping the internal mechanism simple and maintenance-free.
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
Enables users to conveniently control the water flow rate by switching between flow channels, enhancing usability and providing different spray functions.
Implementation Method 1
a return spring, and a control button... The return spring is disposed between the gasket and the second water outlet opening. Upper and lower ends of the return spring abut against the gasket and the water inlet body, respectively.
Data Source
AI summary
A handheld shower head includes a shower head body, a water inlet assembly and a water outlet assembly mounted on the shower head body. The water inlet assembly includes a water inlet body and a flow control device. The flow control device includes a gasket, a return spring, a control valve shaft, and a control button. The control valve shaft passes through the flow control chamber of the water inlet body. A lower portion of the control valve shaft is connected with the gasket. The control button is connected with an upper portion of the control valve shaft. The handheld shower head can control the flow rate of water discharge and is user-friendly.