Utility holder
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional soap dispenser holders are inflexible, requiring replacement for different sizes and lack security against unauthorized removal, which is crucial in public settings for hygiene and theft prevention.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable holder with a locking mechanism using a magnetic block and levers to secure and accommodate various-sized soap dispensers, featuring a fixture clamp and adjustable holding bracket, preventing unauthorized access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed structure holder is used, then the holder can accommodate a specific size of liquid soap dispenser, but it cannot accommodate varying-sized dispensers and requires replacement for different sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The holder incorporates an adjustable height mechanism with a telescopic inner tube that can extend and retract, allowing the holder to adapt to different dispenser sizes. The height can be adjusted by moving the inner tube to different positions and locking it with a ratchet mechanism, transforming a static structure into a dynamic, adaptable one.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder allows changing the height parameter through the adjustable inner tube mechanism. By modifying the height parameter, the holder can accommodate dispensers of various sizes without requiring replacement, thus improving adaptability while maintaining manageable complexity through a single adjustment mechanism.
2Reliability
If conventional soap dispenser holders are used, then user convenience during soap dispensing is provided, but they fail to safeguard the attached dispenser against unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
The holder introduces a locking mechanism as an intermediary between the dispenser and the holder structure. This locking mechanism, operated via a key or code, provides security against unauthorized access while maintaining ease of operation for authorized users through a simple lock/unlock action.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder enables authorized users to independently secure or release the dispenser using the locking mechanism without requiring assistance from staff or security personnel. Users can freely adjust the height and secure the dispenser themselves, maintaining convenience while improving security.
3Reliability
If existing designs of soap dispenser holders are used, then they provide basic holding functionality, but they inadequately prevent unauthorized removal and increase costs in public facilities
Solution Approach 1:
The holder combines multiple functions into a single device: basic holding, height adjustment for different sizes, and security locking. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate devices or frequent replacements, reducing overall costs while providing reliable prevention of unauthorized removal through the integrated locking mechanism.
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
The holder securely fits multiple sizes, prevents theft, and optimizes space while ensuring easy access, enhancing hygiene and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
The inner tube is incorporated with a magnetic block, coupled with an end of a centrally pivoted lever installed in the inner tube. The block moves back and forth in a lateral direction, thereby reciprocating the centrally pivoted lever to engage/disengage a secondary lever with a linear ratchet installed inside the enclosure.
Data Source
AI summary
A utility holder (100) for a soap dispenser comprises an enclosure (102) adapted to mount on a wall. The holding bracket (106), attached at the bottom end (110) of the enclosure (102), accommodates a soap dispenser. Fixture clamp (104), fastened at the top end (110) of the enclosure (102), clamps the soap dispenser. A locking mechanism installed in the enclosure (102) includes an inner tube (200) fitted with a magnetic block (202). The magnetic block (202) is coupled with a centrally pivoted lever (204) through its end portion. Movement of the magnetic block (202) reciprocates laterally the centrally pivoted lever (204) to engage/disengage a secondary lever (206) with a linear ratchet (208) installed in the enclosure (102). The height of the holder (100) is thereby locked according to the dimensions of the soap dispenser.