Design and Fabrication of Foot Operated Water Conserving Faucet

Abstract

The use of hand-operated faucets has been existing for many years, to control the water flow in different plumbing units. The problems associated with the existing means of manual water flow hand-controlled valves have arisen from the increasing population, increasing the utilization of natural water resources, extreme and unnecessary use of ambient water supplies, and the use of contaminated hands, providing an environment for breeding, fostering and housing of germs. Hygiene experts emphasize that proper hand-washing prevents the spread of diseases associated with hand contact. Automatic or electronic faucets have been in practice but are expensive in real-time, require a continuous electrical power supply, and proper isolated wiring. This report proposes a low-cost mechanical faucet with easy and portable installation and implementation, efficient to prevent infections and excess water consumption. A manual foot-controlled faucet was designed, manufactured, and tested to replace the custom handcontrolled faucets. It uses feet to deliver the force on the pedal which then pushes the piston rather than using hands that are already busy, and the spring reverses the movements to the neutral position. Force input by people of ages 15 years and above is under test. The system design is flexible in a way that extra water pipes are to be attached with this faucet for the inflow and outflow of water, thus can be installed on the existing water values without replacing them entirely, making it portable and easy to install at any comfortable position. Difficulties were faced in design selection, drawing, and component sizing but were solved. This system is distinguished by its low cost, simplicity, and easy installation and maintenance. This faucet can be used in places like schools, hostels, homes, hospitals, restaurants, and other public places.