Sidespray Volume Control via Segmented Trigger and Rotary Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sidesprays for kitchen faucets lack volume control, allowing users to only control water flow as either full-ON or full-OFF, limiting the ability to adjust water flow volume during use.
Innovation Solution
A sidespray system with a trigger valve and volume control valve, where a diverter actuator selects between full-ON and full-OFF conditions, and a volume control actuator adjusts the water flow volume through a volume-variable passageway defined by a rotary body and rotationally stationary body, allowing for variable water flow control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a diverter valve is used to direct all water flow to the sidespray, then the sidespray can provide full range of motion and accommodate large pots and pans, but the user is limited to controlling water flow as either full-ON or full-OFF only
Solution Approach 1:
The water flow control function is segmented into two independent valves: a trigger valve that controls ON/OFF status and a volume control valve that controls flow volume. This segmentation allows the system to provide both full-ON/full-OFF control and variable volume control separately, resolving the contradiction between simple operation and flow adjustment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The volume control valve introduces dynamic adjustability to the water flow system. By making the flow volume variable through a rotatable body with adjustable opening, the system transitions from static (full-ON/full-OFF only) to dynamic (variable volume) operation, enabling users to adapt water flow to different task requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a volume control valve with rotatable body is added to enable variable water flow, then users can adjust water flow volume, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The volume control valve merges the flow control function with the existing sidespray assembly by integrating the rotatable body, stationary body with opening, and actuator into a unified component structure. This merging approach consolidates multiple functions (flow control, volume adjustment, and actuation) into a single integrated unit, reducing overall system complexity despite adding volume control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable body of the volume control valve serves multiple functions: it acts as a flow control element, a volume adjustment mechanism, and a structural connector to the actuator. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby managing device complexity while providing variable water flow control.
3Ease of operation
If the trigger valve is used to control full-ON and full-OFF conditions, then the sidespray can be easily activated or deactivated, but precise control over water flow volume is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The control functions are segmented into two independent valves: the trigger valve handles the simple ON/OFF activation while the volume control valve handles precise volume adjustment. This segmentation allows each valve to be optimized for its specific function, maintaining ease of activation while enabling precise volume control.
Solution Approach 2:
The volume control valve acts as an intermediary between the trigger valve and the water flow. It receives the full flow from the trigger valve and then regulates it to the desired volume, providing precise control without interfering with the simple activation function of the trigger valve.
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 adjust water flow volume from 20% to 100% of the maximum flow, enhancing usability and flexibility in washing tasks without triggering a full-OFF condition, ensuring water continues to flow to the faucet spout when not needed.
Implementation Method 1
The volume control valve includes a rotary body positioned in the first chamber. The rotary body is rotatably mounted to the sidespray housing via the hub. The rotational disk has a first opening. The volume control actuator is coupled to the hub to effect rotation of the rotational disk relative to the sidespray housing. A rotationally stationary body is positioned in the first chamber. The rotationally stationary body includes a rotationally stationary disk having a second opening. The first opening of the rotational disk and the second opening of the rotationally stationary disk cooperate to define a volume-variable water passageway.
Data Source
AI summary
A sidespray for use with a water faucet unit includes a trigger valve and a volume control valve. The trigger valve is configured to define a full-ON water flow condition and a full-OFF water flow condition for the sidespray. A diverter actuator is coupled to the trigger valve to select between the full-ON water flow condition and the full-OFF water flow condition for the sidespray. The volume control valve is configured to define a volume-variable water passageway to limit a water flow volume through the sidespray when the trigger valve has set the sidespray to the full-ON water flow condition. A volume control actuator is coupled to the volume control valve to selectively adjust the water flow volume through the sidespray.