Wave Control Circuit for Plumbing with Sensor Recalibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plumbing devices lack efficient hands-free operation and temperature control mechanisms, particularly in environments where water flow affects sensor sensitivity, leading to inconsistent performance.
Innovation Solution
A wave control circuit system comprising a capacitive sensing network, control circuit, and driver circuit that uses proximity sensors to manage valve operation, recalibrates for water flow conditions, and incorporates timers for automatic control of water temperature and volume, enabling hands-free operation and precise temperature selection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If proximity sensors are used for hands-free operation in plumbing devices, then user convenience is improved, but sensor sensitivity becomes inconsistent when water flow is present
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calibration of the proximity sensor when no water is flowing to establish a baseline sensitivity level. This pre-calibration allows the sensor to later detect changes in sensitivity caused by water flow, enabling the system to compensate for environmental conditions before they affect operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors proximity sensor output and compares it against stored baseline values. When deviations indicating water flow are detected, the system adjusts its operation accordingly. This feedback mechanism maintains reliable hands-free operation despite changing water flow conditions by dynamically responding to sensor performance variations.
2Manufacturing precision
If temperature control mechanisms are added to plumbing devices, then operational precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuit is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls valve operation for water flow management, monitors proximity sensors for hands-free detection, stores baseline sensitivity values, and executes temperature control logic. By integrating these diverse functions into a single multi-functional control system, the patent achieves precise temperature control without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system controls water temperature by changing the operational parameters of mixing valves - specifically by adjusting valve opening positions to vary the proportion of hot and cold water mixing. This parameter-based control approach achieves precise temperature regulation through simple positional adjustments rather than complex thermal control mechanisms.
3Reliability
If recalibration for water flow conditions is implemented, then sensor reliability is improved, but additional control operations are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs calibration operations during predetermined time periods when no water is flowing, establishing baseline sensor sensitivity values before water flow begins. This preliminary calibration eliminates the need for complex real-time recalibration during water flow, as the system has already stored reference values for comparison.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic calibration cycles during which the proximity sensor is characterized under known conditions (no water flow). These periodic calibration operations occur at predetermined intervals or when water flow conditions change, providing updated baseline values without requiring continuous complex recalibration during operation.
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 reliable hands-free operation and precise temperature control of plumbing devices by maintaining sensor sensitivity through recalibration and using timers for automatic control, enhancing user convenience and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor circuit 100 may include a capacitive sensing network that is connected to proximity sensor 30
Data Source
AI summary
A wave control circuit disclosed herein may be used to control the operation of various plumbing devices and appliances. The wave control circuit uses a sensor to sense presence of objects in the vicinity of the plumbing device and appliance using the wave control circuit and a control circuit to control the operation of the plumbing device or appliance.