Drain Control Assembly with Interchangeable Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drain systems for bathing tubs lack flexibility in actuation methods, requiring users to choose between linear and rotary actuators, and often necessitate professional installation or tool use for changes, with limited options for aesthetic customization.
Innovation Solution
A drain control assembly that accepts interchangeable linear and rotary actuators, allowing users to switch between actuation methods without tools and includes an overload device to prevent damage, along with aesthetic escutcheons for easy customization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a drain system uses a fixed actuator type (either linear or rotary), then the system structure is simple and reliable, but the adaptability and ease of customization are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The control assembly is designed with a universal receiving member that can accommodate both linear actuators and rotary actuators through a standardized interface. The receiving member includes a bore and receiving portion that selectively receive different actuator types, allowing the same control assembly to perform multiple functions with different actuation methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator system is segmented into interchangeable components: the actuator body (linear or rotary) and the control assembly. This segmentation allows users to replace only the actuator portion while keeping the control assembly, enabling customization without replacing the entire system.
2Ease of operation
If the drain system requires professional installation or tool use for actuator changes, then the system reliability is maintained, but the ease of operation and user convenience deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables end-users to perform actuator replacement themselves without requiring professional installation services or specialized tools. The standardized interface and simple replacement procedure allow consumers to switch between linear and rotary actuators independently, taking control of maintenance and customization.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiving member acts as an intermediary component that mediates between different actuator types and the control assembly. This standardized interface ensures reliable connection while enabling easy replacement, bridging the gap between user convenience and system reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the drain system offers limited aesthetic options, then the manufacturing complexity is low, but the adaptability and user customization capability are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The control assembly serves multiple functions beyond just actuation: it also serves as a mounting platform for various aesthetic escutcheons. This universal design allows the same functional component to support different aesthetic appearances, enabling customization without increasing manufacturing complexity of the core mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A drain control assembly for moving a drain valve assembly between an open position and a closed position through movement of a cable. The drain control assembly includes a driven member having a pivot end and a distal end that is configured to receive an end of the cable; a driving member defining a longitudinal axis; and a housing having a first cavity for receiving the driving member and a second cavity for receiving the driven member; wherein the driving member is configured to move in one of a linear manner or a rotational manner; and wherein the driven member is configured to rotate about the pivot end if the driving member moves in a linear manner and the driven member is configured to rotate about the pivot end if the driving member moves in a rotational manner.