Universal Float Base with Adjustable Openings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flush valves have non-adjustable float holes, leading to limited interchangeability and increased inventory costs due to the need for specific float configurations for each valve model.
Innovation Solution
A float base with adjustable openings, allowing users to customize the flow capacity by inserting or removing plugs, thereby optimizing performance across various flush valve models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If non-adjustable float holes are used in flush valves, then each float is optimized for a specific flush valve model, but this leads to limited interchangeability and increased inventory costs
Solution Approach 1:
The float is divided into separable components: a float body and a base with multiple selectable openings. This segmentation allows the base to be detached and replaced with different opening configurations to match different flush valve models, achieving both optimization for specific models and interchangeability across models.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention provides a base with multiple openings of different sizes and configurations. By selecting and installing a base with specific opening parameters that match the requirements of different flush valve models, the float's water flow characteristics can be optimized for each model while using the same float body, thus achieving both performance optimization and versatility.
2Reliability
If multiple specific float configurations are manufactured for different flush valve models, then each float is optimized for its specific valve, but this creates substantial overstocking and inventory problems
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal float body design can be paired with multiple interchangeable bases having different opening configurations. This allows one float body to serve multiple flush valve models by simply changing the base component, eliminating the need to manufacture and stock multiple different float bodies, thus reducing inventory complexity while maintaining model-specific optimization.
3Adaptability or versatility
If float openings are made adjustable, then a single float can be used across multiple valve models, but this requires additional components like plugs and bases
Solution Approach 1:
The float is segmented into a float body and a separate base component. The base contains multiple openings that can be selectively closed using plugs. This segmentation allows the base to be replaced or adjusted without affecting the float body, providing interchangeability while keeping the overall structure relatively simple and modular.
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
The adjustable float base enables optimal water flow and air flow control during flush cycles, enhancing performance and reducing inventory needs by allowing a single float to be used across multiple valve models.
Implementation Method 1
When water enters the float, the float air volume is evacuated or displaced. This makes it an 'open float' design.
Implementation Method 2
When the float is pulled upwardly during a flush cycle, water in the tank can flow through the holes or apertures and into the interior of the float. This increases the overall mass of the float, causing it to sink at an increased rate
Data Source
AI summary
A float comprises an outer float wall, an inner guide, and a float base. The float base further comprises an outer perimeter and a disk portion. The disk portion includes a central aperture to allow the float base to move with respect to a sleeve. A plurality of apertures are formed within the disk structure. In addition, a structure is formed within the float base to allow the float base to be captured within a bottom portion of the float at a fastening structure.