Drain Apparatus Compressible Fitting Modular Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional plumbing systems in commercial and residential buildings face challenges during installation, including time-consuming processes, multiple visits by contractors, and tight installation tolerances, as well as potential damage to the finished drain during and after installation.
Innovation Solution
A drain apparatus and system featuring a compressible fitting and a cylindrically-shaped drain body with an adjustable flange, allowing for pre-installation in a base before finishing the floor, and a top drain assembly that can be installed after the floor is finished, with the ability to be cut to the desired height and provide a water-tight seal, accommodating non-plumb installations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional plumbing systems are installed during rough-in phase and completed during finishing stage, then the installation process can be divided into multiple stages, but the installation time is extended and multiple contractor visits are required
Solution Approach 1:
The drain assembly is divided into two main segments: a top drain assembly that can be installed during rough-in phase and a bottom drain assembly that is installed after floor finishing. This segmentation allows each component to be installed at the optimal time without requiring multiple contractor visits, as the modular design enables seamless connection between stages.
Solution Approach 2:
The top drain assembly is pre-installed during the rough-in phase before the floor is finished. This preliminary action positions the upper component in advance, so that when the bottom assembly is installed later, the connection is straightforward and requires minimal additional work, effectively reducing total installation time.
2Reliability
If traditional drain installation is performed, then the drain can be installed in the base, but tight installation tolerances are required and the drain is vulnerable to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The compressible fitting changes its physical parameters (compression ratio, density) when installed, transforming from a flexible state during installation to a rigid sealed state after compression. This parameter change allows the fitting to accommodate variations in installation tolerance while maintaining a reliable water-tight seal, eliminating the need for tight precision during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The compressible fitting acts as a cushioning element that anticipates and absorbs potential misalignments or dimensional variations between the top and bottom drain assemblies. By incorporating this compliant element beforehand, the system protects against installation errors and prevents damage to the rigid drain components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the drain body is pre-installed before floor finishing, then the installation schedule is flexible, but the exposed drain body is vulnerable to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The drain system is segmented into an exposed top assembly and a protected bottom assembly separated by the floor structure. This segmentation allows the top assembly to be installed early for scheduling flexibility while the bottom assembly remains protected within the floor cavity, and the compressible fitting connects them after the floor is finished, eliminating exposure damage risk.
4Stability of the object's composition
If a secure and level installation surface is required, then the drain must be precisely positioned, but this increases installation complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The compressible fitting changes its shape and volume under compression to create a level installation surface. By compressing the fitting between the top and bottom assemblies, the system self-adjusts to achieve levelness without requiring precise pre-positioning or complex adjustment procedures, simplifying the installation while ensuring stability.
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 reduces the need for multiple contractor visits, eliminates tight installation tolerances, and protects the finished drain from damage, while ensuring a secure and level installation surface.
Implementation Method 1
a compressible fitting secured the top drain assembly to the drain body
Implementation Method 2
provide a water-tight seal
Data Source
AI summary
An example drain apparatus includes a drain body for connection to a plumbing system. The example drain apparatus also includes a top drain assembly having a compressible fitting, the top drain assembly configured for removable installation within the drain body. An example drain system includes an apparatus having a drain body and a top drain assembly for installation with the drain body. The example drain system includes a jig configured to cut the drain body below an upper surface of a floor the drain body is installed in so that the top drain assembly is fitted to the drain body substantially level with the upper surface of the floor.