Bathtub Overflow Fitting with Rotating Adjusting Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bathtub overflow fittings lack the ability to adjust the overflow level continuously and integrate a water inlet function while maintaining the standard passage opening diameter, and they do not provide an actuating function for the drain valve.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a rotatably held adjusting element on the inlet part, forming part of the overflow channel, which connects to the overflow channel of the overflow body, allowing for continuous overflow level adjustment and integrating a water inlet and drain valve actuation function within the same fitting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional overflow fitting is used, then the overflow function is provided, but the overflow level cannot be adjusted continuously and the fitting lacks water inlet and drain valve actuation functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines four separate functions (overflow, drain valve actuation, water inlet, and overflow level adjustment) into a single integrated fitting assembly. The inlet part serves as a common structure that houses the water inlet channel, connects to the overflow channel, and provides mounting for the adjusting element, thereby merging multiple functional components into one unified device.
Solution Approach 2:
The inlet part is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides water inlet supply, overflow channel connection, and support for overflow level adjustment. The adjusting element mounted on the inlet part can rotate to adjust the overflow level while the inlet part maintains its primary function of water supply and overflow drainage.
2Quantity of substance
If the passage opening diameter is increased to provide sufficient overflow capacity, then the overflow capacity is improved, but the tub wall opening dimensions must be enlarged beyond standard sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the overflow channel geometry within the inlet part to achieve sufficient overflow capacity without increasing the passage opening diameter. The overflow channel is designed with specific cross-sectional dimensions and flow path characteristics that maximize water flow capacity within the constrained circular opening of standard tub wall dimensions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a rotatably mounted adjusting element is added to the inlet part, then continuous overflow level adjustment is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjusting element is mounted rotatably on the inlet part, allowing it to rotate about an axis to change the overflow level dynamically. This rotational movement enables continuous adjustment of the overflow level between minimum and maximum positions without requiring complex mechanical linkages or multiple discrete components.
Data Source
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AI summary
The filler and overflow mechanism for bathtubs comprises a filler component with an pivotable element which jointly form a section of the overflow channel interacting with a section of the of the overflow channel of the overflow component.