Adjustable Sink Connector for Thick Countertop Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing kitchen sink mounting accessories are limited by countertop thickness, making it difficult to install sinks on countertops thicker than 10 millimeters due to the limited length of fixing accessories and screws.

Innovation Solution

A sink connector system featuring a sink body with a supporting frame and basin, equipped with hook portions and adjustable connectors that can adapt to different countertop thicknesses by adjusting the height of the fitting portions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If fixed-length fixing accessories and screws are used for mounting the sink, then the mounting process is simple, but the sink cannot be installed on countertops thicker than 10 millimeters

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different countertop thicknessesVSAvoidcomplexity of mounting accessories
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector employs an adjustable fitting portion that can change its effective length through mechanical extension or telescoping mechanisms. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the same connector to adapt to various countertop thicknesses (ranging from thin to thick countertops exceeding 10mm) without requiring multiple different accessory lengths, thereby resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If longer fixing accessories are used to accommodate thicker countertops, then the applicability increases, but the mounting complexity and tool requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapplicability range for sink installationVSAvoidease of mounting operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is designed as a universal mounting accessory that can serve multiple functions across different installation scenarios. The adjustable fitting portion enables a single connector design to handle thin countertops, standard countertops, and thick countertops (over 10mm) alike. This multi-functionality expands the applicability range while maintaining ease of operation, as users employ the same mounting procedure regardless of countertop thickness.

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

3Adaptability or versatility

If adjustable connectors are introduced to fit different countertop thicknesses, then the flexibility and applicability improve, but the structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility in mounting configurationVSAvoidstructural complexity of connectors
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustable connector utilizes a nested or telescoping structure where one component fits within another. The fitting portion can extend or retract by nesting segments together, allowing length adjustment without adding significant external complexity. This nested design enables the connector to adapt to different countertop thicknesses while maintaining a compact and manageable structural form.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS20250122710A1Sink connector and sink
Publication Date: 2025.04.17 AQUACUBIC SANITARY WARE CO LTD
  • US20250122710A1 patent drawing
  • US20250122710A1 patent drawing
  • US20250122710A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A sink connector and sink is provided, including: a sink body; the sink includes a supporting frame and a basin; hook portions are symmetrically arranged on side walls of the basin; the hook portions are fixed with connectors; each connector includes a supporting portion and a fitting portion; and the connectors adapt to countertops with different thicknesses by adjusting heights of the fitting portions. The sink connectors are arranged on the side walls of the sink through buckles, and adapt to the countertops with different thicknesses by adjusting the heights of the fitting portions, so that the sink can be suitable for a thicker countertop. The problem that an electric hand drill cannot be used during mounting of screws is solved, and the application range of mounting of the sink is effectively increased.