Multi-way Water Distributor with Rotating Rod for Flow Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing shower system water distribution devices only allow water distribution in two directions and lack the ability to adjust water dosage and provide complete shutoff functionality.

Innovation Solution

A water distributing device with a four-position distributor, featuring a turnable rod and built-in bracket, allowing water distribution in four ways: two directions simultaneously, one direction, both directions with adjustable water redistribution, and complete shutoff, utilizing a casing with multiple axes and a handle for 360-degree operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a traditional two-position water distributor is used, then the device structure is simple, but the water distribution flexibility and functionality are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewater distribution flexibilityVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The distributor is divided into four distinct positional settings that segment the water flow control into discrete functional modes: showerhead only, hand-held shower only, both simultaneously with equal flow, and both with adjustable flow distribution. This segmentation allows users to select specific distribution patterns without requiring complex continuous adjustment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The device incorporates a rotatable rod mechanism that enables dynamic reconfiguration of water flow paths. The rod can be rotated to different angular positions (0°, 90°, 180°, 270°) to dynamically change the distribution mode, providing adaptability while maintaining a relatively simple static structure when not in use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If additional water distribution positions are added, then the functionality is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of distribution positionsVSAvoiddistributor structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A single rotatable rod mechanism performs multiple functions by being positioned at different angles. The same mechanical component enables all four distribution modes (showerhead only, hand-held only, both equal, both adjustable), eliminating the need for separate valves or control mechanisms for each position.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The control rod and flow distribution system are merged into a single integrated mechanism. The rod's rotational position simultaneously controls multiple flow paths and distribution ratios, combining what would traditionally require separate control elements into one unified control system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Measurement precision

If water flow redistribution between directions is enabled, then the control precision is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewater dosage controlVSAvoidflow control mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device provides different levels of flow control precision for different distribution modes. In positions where both showerhead and hand-held shower operate simultaneously, the mechanism allows adjustable flow redistribution between them, while in single-output positions, the flow is naturally directed without requiring additional control precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS7373954B2Multi-ways water distributing device
Publication Date: 2008.05.20 INTERLINK PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL INC
  • US7373954B2 patent drawing
  • US7373954B2 patent drawing
  • US7373954B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A water distributing device has one input pipe and two output pipes; a casing, and a turning rod located in the casing and turnable in the casing so as to provide a discharge of water in a first direction, a discharge of water in a second direction, a discharge of water in both directions with redistribution of a quantity of water, and a stopping of a flow of water.