Adjustable Drain Assembly Leveling Mechanism for Floor Variance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Adjustable floor drains face installation challenges due to variances in finished floor height and pitch, leading to issues with the strainer not being flush or level with the finished floor surface if the head unit is incorrectly adjusted for the total thickness of the finished floor surface.

Innovation Solution

The solution involves a leveling member with a head and slots for turning, supported by a tab, which is part of a frame with an angled bracket that attaches to the leveling member, allowing for adjustment of the strainer's height and angle to ensure it is flush with the finished floor surface, along with a collar and lower body that secure the drain pipe.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If the head unit is adjusted to compensate for the total thickness of the finished floor surface, then the strainer can be positioned at the correct height, but installation problems occur when there are variances in finished floor height and pitch

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestrainer position accuracyVSAvoidadaptability to floor variance

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a leveling mechanism that transforms the static head unit into a dynamic adjustable structure. The head unit can be adjusted upwardly and downwardly along the threaded shank to accommodate different floor heights and pitches, allowing the strainer to be leveled and made flush with the finished floor surface regardless of initial conditions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the position parameter of the head unit along the threaded shank to adapt to varying floor conditions. By adjusting the head unit's position (changing its vertical parameter), the system can compensate for different floor thicknesses and pitches, ensuring proper strainer alignment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If the head unit is incorrectly adjusted for floor thickness, then installation is simpler, but the strainer will not be flush or level with the finished floor surface

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoidstrainer alignment accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustable head unit with threaded shank provides a dynamic adjustment capability that allows installers to achieve proper alignment. The mechanism enables simple operation through rotational adjustment while simultaneously ensuring precise alignment of the strainer with the finished floor surface

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The leveling mechanism allows the installer to self-correct alignment issues during installation. By adjusting the head unit position, the installer can independently achieve proper strainer alignment without requiring additional tools or complex procedures

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11047126B1Adjustable drain assembly and retrofit kit for adjustable drain assembly

Publication Date: 2021.06.29 MI FAB MFG LLC

AI summary

An adjustable drain assembly for adjusting the level and pitch of the frame so that, after installation, the frame can be adjust so that the strainer is level or flush with the finished floor surface. A retrofit kit for combining with a preexisting head already installed in a floor to provide an adjustable drain assembly is also disclosed.