Variable Flow Rate Showerhead with Integrated Venturi Air Induction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current low flow rate showerheads lack the ability to perform effectively at rinsing and keeping users warm, and aftermarket solutions often have mounting issues and are unsightly.
Innovation Solution
A shower device with an elongated hollow waterway and a valve system that allows for variable adjustment of water flow rate through a rotating control member, featuring a magnetic docking system for height adjustment and a venturi for air induction to reduce water consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If low flow rate showerheads are used to reduce water consumption, then water usage is reduced, but rinsing performance and ability to keep users warm deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a venturi mechanism that utilizes fluid dynamics principles to draw air into the water stream, creating an air-water mixture spray. This pneumatic-hydraulic approach allows the system to deliver effective rinsing performance with reduced water flow rates by incorporating air volume to compensate for lower water quantity.
Solution Approach 2:
The showerhead system incorporates variable flow rate control that allows users to adjust water flow parameters dynamically. By changing flow rate parameters and mixing ratios of air and water, the system can optimize between water conservation and rinsing effectiveness depending on user needs.
2Loss of substance
If aftermarket adapters are added to reduce water flow, then water consumption is reduced, but mounting stability and aesthetic appearance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control valve and venturi components are integrated directly into the showerhead body as unified components rather than separate adapters. This merging eliminates the need for additional mounting hardware and adapters, maintaining structural integrity and aesthetic appearance while achieving water flow reduction.
Solution Approach 2:
The showerhead incorporates multiple functions including flow rate control, air induction via venturi, and spray distribution within a single integrated design. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate aftermarket adapters, as the showerhead itself provides all necessary features for water conservation.
3Loss of substance
If variable flow rate control is implemented, then water consumption can be reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The venturi mechanism operates automatically based on water flow pressure, drawing in air without requiring additional active control systems. The variable flow rate valve uses a simple rotary control that automatically adjusts the opening, eliminating the need for complex electronic controls or multiple moving parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex electronic flow control systems with a simple mechanical rotary valve and passive venturi mechanism. The flow rate adjustment is achieved through mechanical rotation of a single valve body, and air induction occurs passively through pressure differential in the venturi, eliminating need for motors, sensors, or electronic controls.
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 device provides adjustable water flow rates, improved mounting stability, and reduced water usage without compromising cleaning performance, while maintaining an aesthetic appeal.
Implementation Method 1
a venturi for air induction to reduce water consumption
Implementation Method 2
featuring a magnetic docking system for height adjustment
Data Source
AI summary
A shower device includes an elongated hollow waterway, a spray head configured to emit water, and a valve. The elongated hollow waterway extends in a longitudinal direction and has a first end configured to receive water, a second end, and an internal fluid passage extending from the first end to the second end. The second end has a port extending in a radial direction from the internal fluid passage through the waterway. The valve is configured to control a water flow rate from the internal fluid passage of the waterway to the spray head. The valve includes a valve body that surrounds the port and a control member operatively coupled to the valve body and surrounding at least a portion of the valve body. Rotation of the control member and valve body relative to the waterway provides a variable adjustment of the water flow rate to the spray head.