Walk-In Tub Water Distribution Using One Pump for Multiple Functions
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current walk-in bathtubs require separate pumps for whirlpool, micro nano bubbles, and rapid water discharge systems, which are expensive and lack sufficient space for components, plumbing, and electronics under the bathtub.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable water distribution system utilizing a single motorized pump with multiple valves to selectively direct pressurized water to different types of discharge ports, including bath jets, micro bubble jets, and a drain discharge port, allowing for multiple functions without the need for separate pumps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate pumps are used for whirlpool, micro nano bubbles, and rapid water discharge systems, then each function can be performed reliably, but the cost increases and space requirements exceed available real estate under the bathtub
Solution Approach 1:
A single pump is designed to perform multiple functions by selectively directing water flow to different discharge ports. The pump serves as a universal component that can deliver pressurized water to bath jets for whirlpool function, to micro bubble jets for aeration function, or to the drain for rapid water discharge function, eliminating the need for separate dedicated pumps for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamically controllable valve mechanisms that can change the configuration of water flow paths in real-time. These valves allow the single pump to be dynamically reconfigured to serve different functions based on operational requirements, transitioning between serving bath jets, micro bubble jets, or drain discharge as needed
2Reliability
If separate pumps are used for each function, then system reliability is maintained, but the overall system cost increases due to multiple expensive pump components
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple pump functions are merged into a single pump unit. The invention combines the whirlpool pump function, micro bubble pump function, and rapid discharge pump function into one integrated pump system, reducing component count and manufacturing cost while maintaining the reliability of each individual function through proper flow path configuration and valve control
3Area of stationary object
If a single pump is used for multiple functions, then space and cost are optimized, but the system complexity increases due to reconfigurable water distribution requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The water distribution system is segmented into distinct flow paths, each serving a specific function (bath jets, micro bubble jets, drain). By dividing the distribution network into separate controllable segments with dedicated valves, the system manages complexity through modular organization rather than requiring a single complex undivided system
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 walk-in tubs to perform multiple functions such as bath jetting, micro bubble jetting, and rapid draining using a single pump, optimizing space and reducing costs by eliminating the need for multiple pumps.
Implementation Method 1
a single motorized pump having an input connected to a suction port of a walk-in tub bathing installation, and an output port delivering pressurized water
Implementation Method 2
A pipe system connects the outlet port of the single motorized pump to two or more types of discharge ports, and includes one or more valves to configure water flow paths between the output port and the two or more types of discharge ports
Data Source
AI summary
A reconfigurable water distribution system for a walk-in tub bathing installation including two or more types of discharge ports for discharging water. The system includes a single motorized pump having an input connected to a suction port of the bathing installation, and an output port delivering pressurized water. A pipe system selectively connects the pump to the two or more types of discharge ports to selectively direct the pressurized water to the different ones of the types of discharge ports. The system selectively enables the bathing installation to perform a plurality of different functions using a single pump.