Water Discharge Device Using Segmented Link Members

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional water discharge devices using flexible tubes occupy large spaces, are prone to deformation or breakage, and can introduce foreign objects into the water supply, compromising sanitation and smooth water discharge.

Innovation Solution

A water discharge device utilizing a plurality of rotatably connected link members with flow channels, eliminating the need for flexible tubes, allowing for movement in a small space while ensuring sealed water flow and preventing foreign objects, with a discharge unit connected to a water supply source and capable of external water discharge.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a flexible tube is used to connect the water discharge device to the water supply source, then the device can move smoothly, but it occupies a relatively large space

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemovability of water discharge deviceVSAvoidspace occupied by flexible tube

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The flexible tube is divided into multiple rigid link members (first link member, second link member, third link member) that are rotatably connected to each other. Each link member contains a flow channel, and the rotatable connections allow the segmented structure to flex and adapt to movement while occupying less space than a single long flexible tube.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If a flexible tube is used to allow movement, then the device is mobile, but foreign objects may remain in curved portions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemovability of water discharge deviceVSAvoidforeign objects in water

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the flexible tube into rigid link members with straight flow channels, the design eliminates the curved portions where foreign objects could accumulate. The rotatable connections between segments allow movement while maintaining straight, cleanable flow paths.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The link members are designed as replaceable components. If contamination occurs, individual link members can be easily removed and replaced, ensuring water quality without needing to replace the entire discharge device.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Ease of operation

If a flexible tube is used for water discharge, then the device can move, but the tube may be deformed or broken over time

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemovability of water discharge deviceVSAvoiddurability of connection

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The flexible tube is replaced with multiple rigid link members connected by rotatable joints. This segmentation distributes mechanical stress across multiple connection points rather than concentrating it in a single flexible tube, preventing deformation and breakage while maintaining movability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The rotatable connections between link members provide dynamic movement capability, allowing the discharge device to move while maintaining reliable connections. The rigid link members with rotatable joints are more durable than flexible tubes under repeated movement and stress.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Area of stationary object

If link members are rotatably connected to enable movement, then the device can move in small space, but sealed connection between flow channels is required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespace occupied by discharge deviceVSAvoidcomplexity of sealed connection

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The rotatable connection mechanism combines both the movement function and the sealing function in a single integrated structure. The connection portion includes a sealing member that automatically seals the flow channel when link members are connected, eliminating the need for separate sealing components and reducing overall complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 efficient, sanitary, and continuous water discharge from a water supply source without foreign objects, maintaining functionality even when the device is moved, by using a system of link members that replaces flexible tubes and ensures sealed flow channels.

Implementation Method 1

The second rotary connection portion may include a sealing member for sealing a region between the first rotary connection portion and the second rotary connection portion.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSealing:

Data Source

PatentUS11370647B2Water discharge device

Publication Date: 2022.06.28 COWAY CO LTD

AI summary

A water discharge device is disclosed. A water discharge device according to an embodiment of the present invention may comprise: a main body unit including a first main body and a second main body movably connected to the first main body; and a discharge unit connected to the second main body so as to be moved with the second main body, and connected to a water source so as to discharge water in the water source to the outside, wherein the discharge unit comprises a plurality of link members having flow channels through which water flows, respectively, and rotatably connected to each other so as to connect the flow channels in a sealed manner.