Cistern Cover Attachment via Variable-Length Struts
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cistern designs require costly customization of threaded pipes and actuating devices to accommodate different dimensions, complicating the secure attachment of covers with varying thicknesses.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates variable-length holders for struts connected to the drain valve, paired with a spring-elastic compensating element and snap-in receptacles, allowing for secure and resilient attachment of covers to cisterns with different dimensions without individual pipe cutting, and eliminating the need for special button adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a threaded pipe is used to connect the cover and actuating device, then the connection can be secured, but the pipe must be cut to length for different cistern dimensions which increases cost and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded connection system is divided into modular segments: a standard threaded tube component and adjustable positioning elements. This segmentation allows the same standard component to be used across different cistern dimensions without custom cutting, as the modular segments can be reconfigured to accommodate varying lengths and positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements that allow dynamic adaptation to different cistern dimensions. Instead of fixed-length threaded pipes requiring cutting, the system uses adjustable positioning mechanisms that can be configured for various lengths and orientations, eliminating the need for customization while maintaining secure connections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the actuating device is adapted for different cistern dimensions, then compatibility is improved, but the cost of customization increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating device is designed with universal components that can serve multiple cistern dimensions and configurations. The standardized threaded tube and adjustable positioning system allow the same actuating device to be installed on various cistern sizes without requiring dimension-specific customization, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining broad compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables adaptation to different dimensions through parameter adjustments rather than physical customization. By changing the configuration parameters of the adjustable positioning elements and threaded tube assembly, the same actuating device can accommodate various cistern dimensions without requiring different manufacturing batches or custom fabrication.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the cover thickness varies, then different cistern models are accommodated, but the screwing depth of the screw sleeve must be adjusted which complicates the design
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through the adjustable positioning elements and threaded tube assembly. These components can be reconfigured to accommodate varying cover thicknesses without requiring changes to the screw sleeve design, as the adjustable mechanism absorbs the variation in thickness through its reconfigurable geometry.
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
This solution simplifies the connection of the cover to the drain valve, enabling secure attachment to various cistern dimensions without requiring custom pipe lengths or button adjustments, reducing costs and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
different wall thicknesses of commercially available cisterns being compensated for with a resilient molded body (6) made of foam rubber
Implementation Method 2
The mechanism as a whole can be resiliently tightened against the lid
Implementation Method 3
resilient tongues being formed on the projections, which engage in corresponding recesses in the respective shaped piece in the plugged-in position and secure the strut in the plugged-in position
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
In a cistern (1) with a lid (10) for a toilet or the like, wherein an actuating device (3) is provided for a drain valve (2) arranged on the bottom (11) of the cistern (1), which is attached to a screw sleeve (31) that can be inserted from the outside and at least partially passes through the lid (10) in an opening, and to a counterpart or housing (30) arranged on the inside of the lid (10), it is proposed that at least one support for a strut (4a, 4b) be formed on the housing (30) or the counterpart, which can be connected to a drain valve (2) with variable length, so that the lid (10) is securely held on the cistern (1).