Adjustable Washbasin Width for Narrow Space Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional washbasins are fixed in size, making them either too wide to allow easy access in narrow spaces or too narrow for comfortable hand washing, posing challenges for individuals with mobility issues or those needing extra space.
Innovation Solution
A dimensionally adjustable washbasin system that can be translated or pivoted to change its width, allowing it to adapt from a wider first width for comfortable washing to a narrower second width for improved access, without the need for special tools or disconnecting drainage pipes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the washbasin is made wide (50 cm or more), then comfortable hand washing is enabled, but passage in narrow or crowded washbasin areas is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The washbasin is designed with a movable mounting mechanism that allows it to be dynamically repositioned between a first position (protruding from the wall) and a second position (retracted toward the wall). This dynamic positioning enables the washbasin to provide a wide comfortable washing surface when needed, while retracting to minimize space occupation and improve accessibility in narrow areas.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the washbasin is permanently installed and fixed to the wall, then stability is ensured, but the washbasin cannot be removed or repositioned on demand
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting mechanism incorporates a movable joint or sliding mechanism that allows the washbasin to be repositioned between extended and retracted positions while maintaining stable support in each position. The mechanism provides stable mounting when the washbasin is in use, yet allows easy repositioning or removal when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is divided into separable components, allowing the washbasin to be detached from the wall mounting. The drainage connection is designed to be disconnectable, enabling the washbasin to be removed or repositioned independently while maintaining a stable fixed installation when assembled.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the washbasin is mounted on a dedicated cabinet, then stability is provided, but the width is fixed and cannot be adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The washbasin is mounted on a movable mechanism that allows it to change its effective width by repositioning between a first position (protruding outward) and a second position (retracted). This dynamic adjustment enables the washbasin to provide maximum width for comfortable washing or minimize width for improved accessibility, while maintaining stable support throughout the range of motion.
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
A dimensionally adjustable washbasin system is provided with an upwardly open liquid collecting unit that is at least partially uncovered and in liquid communication with a drainage system; and a washbasin having at least one liquid receiving portion and a liquid discharging portion, such that liquid introduced onto one of the liquid receiving portions is flowable into the liquid collecting unit when the liquid discharging portion is positioned above, and in communication with, the liquid collecting unit.