Timed Self-Closing Valve Mechanism With Adjustable Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing faucets lack precise timing of water flow and easy mounting of timing mechanisms, as well as adjustable fluid flow, in their self-closing mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A self-closing faucet mechanism featuring a hollow cylindrical casing with a sliding control rod, a delay pot, and a flow adjustment screw, allowing for easy piston mounting and fine fluid flow regulation through radial channels and seals, with a compression spring for automatic closure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a simple self-closing valve mechanism is used, then the structure is simple, but the timing precision of water flow is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The delay piston is nested inside the hollow control rod, with the delay piston rod inserted into the control rod's interior space. This nested configuration allows the timing mechanism to be integrated within the existing valve structure without significantly increasing external dimensions or overall structural complexity, while still providing precise timing control through the delay piston's controlled movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the control rod for valve operation, the delay piston for timing control, the compression spring for return force, and the flow adjustment screw for flow rate control. Each component performs a specific function, allowing for precise timing through the delay piston's separate controlled movement while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Measurement precision
If a delay piston mechanism is added for timing, then the timing precision is improved, but the mounting difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The delay piston rod is designed to be inserted into the hollow interior of the control rod, utilizing the existing hollow space. The locking elements engage with features on the control rod's inner surface, securing the delay piston in place. This nested design allows for straightforward assembly by simply inserting and locking the piston, avoiding complex mounting procedures while achieving precise timing.
3Manufacturing precision
If the valve closes instantly, then the response time is fast, but the flow control precision is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The compression spring is positioned to directly bear on the control rod, automatically providing the return force needed for valve closure without requiring external actuation. When the user releases the control button, the spring's stored energy automatically drives the control rod back to its closed position, ensuring consistent and precise flow control through this self-acting mechanism.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the control rod is hollow to accommodate components, then the integration is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hollow control rod serves as a housing for the delay piston rod, which is inserted into its interior space. The locking elements engage with features on the inner surface of the control rod, securing the delay mechanism in place. This nested configuration allows multiple components to be integrated within the hollow structure without requiring complex internal geometries or difficult assembly procedures.
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 precise timing of water flow and easy assembly of the timing piston, along with adjustable fluid flow, ensuring efficient and controlled operation.
Implementation Method 1
a compression spring arranged between the hollow cylindrical housing and the valve control knob
Implementation Method 2
a first lip seal being disposed between the hollow cylindrical housing and the control rod, said first lip seal being located downstream of the at least two fluid inlet channels and upstream of the at least one fluid outlet channel
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The invention relates to a timed automatic closing mechanism (1) for a tap, comprising: a hollow cylindrical housing (2) inside which a hollow control rod (3) can slide, the lower part of which opens out of the cylindrical housing (2) and carries a valve (9) associated with a seat (10) formed in the lower part of the cylindrical housing (2); a timer pot (17) in which a timer piston (18) carrying a lip seal (19) can slide, the upper part of the timer piston (18) being inserted in the lower part of the control rod (3) and having at least two locking elements (23) fitted into at least two fluid inlet channels (14) of the control rod (3); and a flow adjustment screw (24) disposed inside the control rod (3).