Shower Switching Valve Core with Push Rod Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing shower systems, particularly combined shower systems, have complex water passage switching mechanisms that are not user-friendly, often requiring a three-way connector with multiple valves, which complicates the switching between overhead and hand shower modes.
Innovation Solution
A switching device with a housing, valve core main body, push rod, and switching assembly that allows for simple and intuitive switching by pressing a button, utilizing multiple water passing holes and sliding members to change the water flow direction between different shower modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a three-way connector with switching valve is used to connect overhead shower, hand shower or water inlet pipeline, then the shower system can switch between different modes, but the structure becomes complicated and not user friendly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the switching valve and the water outlet into a single integrated body. The valve core is directly formed as part of the showerhead structure, eliminating the need for separate three-way connectors and multiple valves. This integration maintains the ability to switch between overhead shower, hand shower, and shower panel modes while dramatically simplifying the overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The showerhead body is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as the water distribution outlet and as the housing for the switching mechanism. The valve core integrates multiple functions: it controls water flow to different outlets, acts as a sealing element, and provides the switching structure itself, reducing the need for separate components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a three-way connector with switching handle is used, then water passage switching is achieved, but the operation becomes complicated and less user friendly
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a traditional switching handle that requires rotation or lifting motions, the patent inverts the switching mechanism to use a push-button operation. The pressing member is directly actuated by user pressure, which moves the valve core through sliding or lifting motion, reversing the conventional approach and achieving much simpler, more intuitive operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the switching function from a separate handle mechanism and integrates it directly into the valve core structure. The pressing member connects directly to the valve core, eliminating intermediate transmission mechanisms like linkages or gears, thereby simplifying the operation to a direct push-action that is easily understood and executed by users.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple valves and connectors are used for switching, then comprehensive shower control is achieved, but the device occupies more space and becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple valve functions into a single valve core structure that is integrated within the showerhead body. The valve core simultaneously controls water flow to the overhead shower, hand shower, and shower panel outlets, eliminating the need for multiple separate valves and connectors, thereby significantly reducing the space required for the switching device.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve core is nested within the showerhead body, with the pressing member housed inside the same structure. The switching mechanism is contained within the existing showerhead volume, utilizing the internal space efficiently. This nesting approach allows the switching device to occupy minimal additional space while maintaining full control functionality for all shower modes.
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
The solution provides a user-friendly, space-saving, and convenient switching mechanism that simplifies the transition between hand shower and overhead shower modes, eliminating the need for complex three-way connectors and multiple valves.
Implementation Method 1
a spring, a first end of the spring abuts against a rear end surface of the support groove, and a second end of the spring extends out of a front end surface of the support groove to abut against an end surface of the annular support member
Data Source
AI summary
A switching device for shower system includes a housing; a valve core main body, wherein the valve core main body includes a first valve core and a second valve core, a first end of the first valve core is provided with a plurality of water passing holes in different positions, and a second end of the first valve core is slidably connected to the second valve core; a push rod, wherein the push rod is located inside the valve core main body, and an end of the push rod is inserted into the second valve core; and a switching assembly, wherein a first end of the switching assembly is slidably connected to the housing and a second end of the switching assembly is connected to the second valve core, when the switching assembly is pressed, the push rod is pushed to switch the water passing holes in different positions.