Toilet Controls Using Segmented Float Compartment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing toilet systems face issues with water wastage due to stuck or leaky outlet valves, leading to low water levels in the tank and subsequent unnecessary water flow, which can result in substantial water loss and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A toilet control apparatus that includes a float and container system to automatically actuate the inlet valve to a closed position when the tank water level reaches a desired level or remains low, preventing further water intake and minimizing water loss through a compartment assembly and tank water level sensor apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the float actuated inlet valve remains open to replenish water in the tank, then the water level is maintained, but substantial water is wasted when the outlet valve is stuck open
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the tank into two separate compartments: a main tank compartment and a float compartment. The float and its associated inlet valve are contained within the float compartment, while the main tank is served by a separate outlet valve. This segmentation allows the float mechanism to operate independently and detect water level changes even when the main tank has a leak or the outlet valve is stuck open, preventing unnecessary water intake and waste.
2Productivity
If the outlet valve is manually operated to flush the toilet, then water flows from the tank to the bowl, but the valve may become stuck open causing continuous water loss
Solution Approach 1:
The invention implements a feedback mechanism where the float in the float compartment continuously monitors the water level. When water flows from the tank during flushing or leaks, the water level drops, causing the float to descend and open the inlet valve to replenish water. When the water level reaches the desired level, the float rises and closes the inlet valve. This feedback loop ensures the inlet valve responds only to actual water level changes, not to temporary fluctuations caused by flushing or leaks, thereby preventing water waste while maintaining proper water levels.
3Quantity of substance
If water accumulates in the tank continuously to ensure adequate supply, then water is always available for flushing, but excessive water is stored increasing the risk of water damage
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the float compartment from the main tank, the invention creates an isolated monitoring system that accurately detects the actual water level in the main tank. This prevents overfilling and ensures water is only added when genuinely needed, maintaining adequate supply while minimizing the risk of water damage from excessive storage or overflow.
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
Effectively conserves water by limiting the amount lost due to leaks or valve malfunctions, preventing excessive water usage and damage by ensuring the inlet valve remains closed during low water conditions, thus maintaining water levels within the tank.
Implementation Method 1
A float may be disposed in the container. If the outlet valve leaks, water will flow from the tank. However, since the float engages the separate body of water in the container, the water inlet valve will not open to replenish the water lost from the tank.
Data Source
AI summary
Controls for use in association with the main tank of a toilet include a container which is disposed in the main tank and holds a body of water. A float is movable in the container to expel water from the container and effect operation of an inlet valve from a closed condition to an open condition. Water flows into an inlet compartment and into the main tank when the inlet valve is in the open condition. Water flows into an outlet compartment after a predetermined quantity of water has accumulated in the inlet compartment. Water flows from the outlet compartment into the container.