Bathtub Inlet Fitting Bayonet Connection Reduces Height
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bathtub inlet and overflow fittings have a high number of components, leading to increased material and assembly costs, and a bulky structural height due to the use of screws and nuts for securing the jet regulator, which users find cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A simplified design featuring a hollow-cylindrical connecting section with a slot and a projection that inserts through the slot for a quick and tool-free connection of the jet regulator to the water transfer channel, eliminating the need for screws and nuts, and incorporating a locking lug for secure attachment, along with a flange-like fastening element and annular seals for leak-proofing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a screw and nut connection is used to secure the jet regulator, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the number of components increases and the installation height becomes large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of the screw, nut, and connection structure into a single integrated bayonet catch mechanism. The hollow-cylindrical connecting section with slot and the projection replace the traditional screw-nut assembly, reducing the number of components while maintaining secure connection through the positive engagement of the projection in the slot with rotational locking.
2Reliability
If a screw and nut connection is used to secure the jet regulator, then the connection is secure, but the installation height becomes large and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the connection function into a compact bayonet catch structure where the hollow-cylindrical connecting section and projection are positioned to engage directly without requiring the extended depth needed for screw threads and nut engagement. This merging of functions significantly reduces the installation height while maintaining secure connection through the rotational locking mechanism.
3Reliability
If traditional screw and nut fastening is used, then the connection is secure, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and requires tools
Solution Approach 1:
The bayonet catch mechanism is designed to be self-contained and self-actuating. The projection automatically engages with the slot when the jet regulator is inserted, and rotational movement locks the connection without requiring external tools or additional fastening operations. This self-service mechanism dramatically speeds up assembly while maintaining secure connection.
4Device complexity
If fewer components are used to reduce complexity, then assembly becomes simpler and installation height is reduced, but connection reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The hollow-cylindrical connecting section with slot and the projection are designed with precise curved surfaces that guide the engagement process. The cylindrical geometry provides natural alignment and smooth rotational locking, ensuring reliable connection with minimal components. The curved surfaces distribute contact forces evenly, enhancing connection reliability despite the reduced component count.
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 5a~5b
Figure 6~9
AI summary
The inflow and overflow fitting (1) has a water conduit channel that is provided in an attachment element (10), over an axle swingable nozzle (14) to adjust the direction of water jet entering into bath tub (8). The conduit channel and nozzle are connected with each other through connector. One connector is provided with a hollow cylindrical connecting portion having a slot through which a projection portion of another connector is inserted. A form-fitting connection of connecting portion is performed according to the rotary movement of nozzle relative to conduit channel.