Spray Regulator Slit Recess Tool Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing jet regulators for sanitary outlets often require a coin or a large screwdriver for tool engagement, leading to operational errors when a small screwdriver is used, which can result in jamming or damage to the lattice or mesh structure, compromising the compact design.
Innovation Solution
A second slot-shaped depression with a smaller cross-section is integrated at the base of the first depression, allowing both larger and smaller screwdrivers to be used without protruding tool surfaces, enhancing the compact design and torque transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single slot-shaped recess is provided for tool engagement, then the aerator maintains a compact design, but smaller screwdrivers cannot be properly engaged leading to operational errors and potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The single recess is segmented into two distinct recesses: a first slot-shaped recess for larger tools (coins, large screwdrivers) and a second slot-shaped recess for smaller screwdrivers. This segmentation allows each recess to be optimized for specific tool sizes, preventing operational errors while maintaining overall compactness through shared positioning features.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the recess structure are given different qualities - the first recess has a larger cross-section suitable for coins and large screwdrivers, while the second recess has a smaller cross-section optimized for small screwdrivers. Both recesses share common positioning features (longitudinal and transverse ridges) that provide localized quality control for tool alignment.
2Length of moving object
If the aerator protrudes minimally beyond the water outlet, then the compact design is maintained, but access for tool engagement becomes limited
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of increasing the axial protrusion length of the aerator, the solution adds complexity in the radial dimension by creating multiple recesses at different positions on the cylindrical surface. This allows tool engagement features to be distributed around the circumference, ensuring accessibility from various angles without compromising the compact axial profile.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a coin is used as a turning tool, then no additional tools are needed, but the grid or mesh structure may be damaged due to excessive torque
Solution Approach 1:
The first slot-shaped recess acts as an intermediary between the coin (user's tool) and the adjustment mechanism. The recess provides a controlled interface that distributes the applied torque, allowing coin operation while protecting the vulnerable grid or mesh structure from direct excessive force concentration.
4Ease of operation
If a small screwdriver is used in the single recess, then tool availability is improved, but the blade may become jammed or the recess may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The tool engagement interface is segmented into two specifically sized recesses. The second recess is specifically designed with a smaller cross-section that perfectly accommodates small screwdriver blades, preventing jamming and lateral prying that would damage the recess or surrounding grid structure.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
Figure 6~9
AI summary
The invention relates to a spray regulator (3) having a spray regulator housing (4), which housing has on the outer housing circumference thereof an external thread (5) by which the spray regulator (3) can be installed in an internal thread provided in the water outlet of a sanitary outlet fitting, wherein a downstream housing end face (6) of the spray regulator housing (4) is designed as a grid or mesh structure having through flow holes (7) for the water flowing through the spray regulator (3), said grid or mesh structure having at least one first slit-like recess (8, 9) which serves as a tool engagement surface. A second slit-like recess (9) intended as a tool engagement surface is provided in the slot base of this first recess (8), wherein the second recess (9) has a smaller recess cross-section by comparison with the first recess (8).