Built-in sink
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing built-in sinks have large dimensions when a draining and storage surface is integrated, making them space-inefficient and requiring additional space for rinsing and draining functions.
Innovation Solution
A built-in sink with an inclined intermediate plane that merges into the side wall, allowing for a draining and storage surface within the sink, reducing the need for external space and facilitating water drainage, while preventing items from slipping into the rinsing water.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a draining and storage surface is integrated into the sink, then both rinsing and draining functions are provided, but the sink dimensions become large and space-inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediate level (mezzanine) that utilizes the vertical dimension within the sink volume. This mezzanine structure divides the sink into an upper rinsing area and a lower draining/storage area, effectively creating multiple functional zones without increasing the horizontal footprint. The intermediate level acts as a platform that separates the two functions vertically, allowing both to coexist in a compact configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The sink is segmented into distinct functional zones by the intermediate level: an upper zone for rinsing and a lower zone for draining and storage. This segmentation allows each area to perform its specific function independently while sharing the same overall sink volume, thereby providing dual functionality without requiring a larger overall structure.
2Ease of operation
If a draining surface is provided outside the sink, then draining function is available, but additional space is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the draining function with the sink structure itself by incorporating a draining area beneath the intermediate level. This eliminates the need for separate external draining surfaces or additional workspace areas, as the draining function is integrated directly into the sink's internal volume. The lower zone beneath the mezzanine serves as both the draining area and storage space.
3Ease of operation
If the intermediate level is arranged high in the sink, then draining function is accessible, but items may fall into rinsing water and aesthetics are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate level itself acts as a protective intermediary barrier between the upper rinsing area and the lower draining area. By positioning this mezzanine structure, the patent creates a physical separation that prevents items placed in the upper area from falling into the water, while still allowing the lower draining zone to be accessible and functional. The intermediate level serves as both a functional platform and a safety barrier.
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 enables space-saving integration of rinsing and draining functions within the sink, reducing water volume and preventing accidental falls, while allowing for versatile use and aesthetic design options.
Implementation Method 1
the intermediate plane is a surface designed as an inclined plane, which merges into the side wall and drops from the bottom surface in the direction of the side wall at an angle of inclination of up to 10°
Implementation Method 2
Due to its inclination, the surface of the intermediate level thus has a geometry which is designed to prevent objects placed on it from slipping away
Implementation Method 3
a built-in sink (1) with a sink (2) for holding a volume of water
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a built-in sink (1) with a basin (2) for holding a volume of water, wherein the basin (2) has a base (3) with a drain (4) and an intermediate level (5) arranged above the base (3) and below an upper edge (6). An overflow (7) of the basin (2) is arranged in a side wall (8) of the basin (2) between the intermediate level (5) and the upper edge (6). The intermediate level (5) is inclined towards the side wall so that objects placed on it cannot slide into the lower area of the base (3).