Drain pan hanger system and method of use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional drain pan systems are limited in their ability to drain moisture due to the drainage pipe being attached at the side rather than the bottom, leading to incomplete moisture removal from the pan.
Innovation Solution
A drain pan hanger system that suspends the drain pan underneath an appliance, utilizing a hanger system with a bracket and support configuration that allows for improved drainage by securing the drain pan at an angle, with adjustable lengths and securement devices to ensure effective moisture collection and retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the drainage pipe is attached at the side of the pan, then the installation is simple, but the drainage is incomplete and moisture remains in the pan
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional drainage approach by attaching the drainage pipe at the bottom of the pan rather than the side, and by tilting the pan so that moisture flows downward to the drainage opening at the lowest point, ensuring complete drainage
2Device complexity
If the drain pan is positioned horizontally, then the structure is simple, but moisture cannot be effectively drained to the pipe
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces asymmetry by tilting the drain pan at an angle rather than positioning it horizontally, creating a slope that directs moisture flow toward the drainage opening at the lowest point, thereby improving drainage efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a dimensional element by tilting the pan to create a slope, transforming the flat horizontal surface into an inclined plane that facilitates gravitational flow of moisture to the drainage point
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 system enables efficient drainage of moisture from the drain pan by positioning it securely underneath the appliance, ensuring that all collected moisture can be drained, thereby overcoming the limitations of conventional systems.
Implementation Method 1
During use, any moisture that is released from appliance 203 falls into pan 207 and can be drained from pipe 209
Data Source
AI summary
A combination drain pan and hanger system, the combination includes a drain pan having a bottom surface; a hanger to support the drain pan under an appliance, the hanger having a support; a bracket to secure to a bottom surface of the appliance; the support is to rest under the drain pan such that the drain pan is positioned under the appliance to catch any water.