Basin Overflow with Segmented Drain Fitting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sanitary basin drain fittings with integrated overflow channels create a large, visually unappealing connection that is costly and complex to produce, while also risking unintentional emptying due to closed flow in the overflow line.
Innovation Solution
A concealed overflow system where the riser channel ends at an overflow hole in the basin's rear wall, with an overflow line connected to the drain fitting below the valve, using a plastic pipe with a flange for secure attachment and optionally oversized to prevent closed flow, and featuring a ventilation opening to interrupt closed flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the riser channel and overflow channel are connected to the drain pipe using a large-volume connection section, then the concealed overflow function is achieved, but the visual appearance deteriorates and production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the overflow system into separate components: the riser channel integrated in the basin wall, the overflow line as a distinct pipe connecting to the drain fitting, and the overflow hole as a separate opening. This segmentation eliminates the need for a large-volume connection section, achieving concealed overflow while maintaining visual appeal and reducing production complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the overflow line connection from the basin wall structure and relocates it to the drain fitting assembly. The overflow line is taken out as a separate pipe that connects the riser channel to the drain fitting below the valve, removing the visual and production drawbacks of integrated large-volume connections
2Reliability
If the overflow line is sized to prevent closed flow, then unintentional emptying is prevented, but the material consumption and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the critical parameter of the overflow line from its cross-sectional area to its connection positioning and flow path design. By optimizing the line's route and connection points rather than simply increasing its diameter, the patent prevents closed flow conditions while using minimal material, avoiding the cost and material consumption associated with oversized pipes
3Ease of manufacture
If the overflow line connection is simplified, then production cost decreases, but sealed connection reliability may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a flange as an intermediary component at the connection between the overflow line and the overflow hole. This flange provides a simple yet reliable sealed connection interface, achieving both ease of manufacture and connection reliability without requiring complex manufacturing processes
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 solution provides a visually improved, cost-effective, and easily producible sanitary basin with a concealed overflow that prevents unintentional emptying by ensuring open flow in the overflow line, enhancing the basin's design and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
an embodiment of the invention provides that a ventilation opening or a ventilation channel is arranged at the upper end of the overflow to interrupt a closed flow in the overflow line
Implementation Method 2
A sealed connection of the overflow line to the riser channel can be achieved in a simple and reliable manner if, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the overflow line has a flange at its end associated with the overflow hole, which flange can be fastened to the overflow hole
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The washbasin (1) has an outlet (3) fitted with a drain system (5) with a control valve (9.1). An overflow system (2) bridges the valve and consists of a riser channel (12) above the valve, which is integrated with the basin, and an exterior drain pipe (14) which connects with the drain system below the valve.