Wireless Faucet Control Module for Voice and Flow Programming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic faucets lack advanced functionality for hands-free operation and programmable water flow control, and do not efficiently monitor or manage water parameters like temperature and usage without increasing complexity or cost.
Innovation Solution
A wireless control module that can be added to existing electronic faucets, enabling voice-controlled operation, programmable water flow modes, and real-time monitoring of water parameters through sensors, allowing for features like purging cold water, dispensing a prescribed amount, and monitoring water usage, while maintaining compatibility with existing systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a wireless control module is integrated into the electronic faucet, then hands-free operation and programmable water flow control are enabled, but device complexity and base cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless control functionality is segmented into a separate modular accessory rather than being integrated into the faucet body. This allows the control module to be independently added or removed, enabling hands-free operation capability without permanently increasing the base faucet's complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless control module is designed as a universal accessory that can be coupled to existing electronic faucets through standard connections. It provides multiple functions including voice control, programmable water flow modes, and water parameter monitoring, making it adaptable to various faucet models without requiring model-specific integration.
2Measurement precision
If sensors are added to monitor water parameters, then water usage monitoring and temperature control are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sensing functions (temperature monitoring, flow rate measurement, water usage tracking) are merged into a single wireless control module. This consolidation allows accurate water parameter monitoring through integrated sensors while avoiding the complexity of multiple separate sensor systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless control module acts as an intermediary between the faucet's internal systems and the user. It incorporates sensors that monitor water parameters and processes this information wirelessly, providing accurate measurement capabilities without directly adding complex sensor wiring and processing to the faucet's core structure.
3Extent of automation
If voice recognition and conversion devices are integrated, then programmable water flow control is enabled, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The voice recognition and conversion device is segmented as a separate component within the wireless control module rather than being integrated into the faucet's manufacturing process. This allows the voice control functionality to be pre-assembled and tested as a complete unit, simplifying the overall faucet assembly process while enabling programmable water flow control through voice commands.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic faucet including a wireless module facilitating remote control of an electrically operable valve. Illustratively, the wireless module includes a body defining a fluid passageway in fluid communication with the electrically operable valve, and a receiver configured to receive wireless signals from a remote transmitter. The remote transmitter may comprise a voice recognition and conversion device to facilitate voice control of the electrically operable valve.