Drain Trap Float Seal for Odor Blocking and Fluid Drainage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drain systems fail to effectively prevent gas and odor from escaping through drains, such as shower or floor drains, leading to unpleasant odors and potential health hazards.
Innovation Solution
A drain trap design comprising an inner and outer part with radial threads for attachment, a well for fluid retention, and a rounded structure that floats within the well to create a seal and prevent odor escape, utilizing O-rings for additional sealing and a funnel-shaped opening for fluid entry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a simple drain opening is used, then fluid drainage is efficient, but gas and odor can escape freely
Solution Approach 1:
The drain trap is divided into multiple functional segments: an outer part with a well for fluid accumulation, an inner part with a rounded structure that creates a floating seal, and multiple openings positioned at different locations. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while collectively preventing odor escape without requiring a completely complex system redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
Fluid acts as an intermediary substance between the drain opening and the environment. The well collects fluid that flows down the drain, and this accumulated fluid creates a barrier that prevents gas and odor from escaping. The rounded structure within the well enhances this intermediary effect by creating a floating seal that maintains the barrier function.
2Reliability
If a rounded floating structure is added to prevent odor, then sealing effectiveness improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rounded structure is designed to float automatically on the fluid accumulated in the well, creating a seal without requiring external actuation or complex mechanical mechanisms. The buoyancy of the rounded structure provides the sealing action self-service, eliminating the need for motors, sensors, or complex control systems while maintaining reliable odor prevention.
Solution Approach 2:
The rounded structure utilizes a spherical or spheroidal shape that naturally conforms to the bottom of the well and creates an effective seal against the inner part of the drain trap. This curved geometry simplifies the design compared to flat or angular sealing surfaces, as the rounded shape can accommodate slight variations in positioning while maintaining contact and sealing effectiveness.
3Productivity
If multiple openings are provided in the circumferential wall, then fluid drainage is improved, but structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The circumferential wall features openings at specific locations optimized for fluid drainage, while other portions of the wall maintain full structural integrity. The openings are strategically positioned to maximize drainage efficiency without compromising the overall strength of the wall, as the remaining wall material continues to provide structural support and containment for the well.
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
Effectively traps and expels fluid, preventing odors from escaping by creating a barrier within the drain system, ensuring a sealed environment and reducing unpleasant smells.
Implementation Method 1
a rounded structure retained within the well that is configured to float in the fluid
Data Source
AI summary
A drain trap includes an outer part including a circumferential wall, the outer part extending in an axial direction between an outer part upper end and an outer part lower end, the outer part including outer part radial threads proximate the outer part upper end, the outer part lower end forming a well configured to trap and retain fluid, the outer part further including at least one opening disposed in the circumferential wall, an inner part, and a rounded structure retained within the well. Fluid entering the drain trap accumulates in the well, and the fluid entering the drain trap is expelled from the drain trap through the at least one opening disposed in the circumferential wall.