Quick-Attach Faucet Clamp for Variable Deck Thickness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional faucet mounting methods are complicated, time-consuming, and require multiple components, especially when dealing with varying deck thicknesses, as they involve threading a mounting nut along a long externally threaded shank.
Innovation Solution
A quick attach clamp system that allows the nut to be slidably moved along the mounting shank and secured at the desired position, utilizing friction and binding to lock the faucet assembly in place without full threading, reducing the number of components and installation time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional mounting nut is threaded along a long externally threaded mounting shank to accommodate various deck thicknesses, then the faucet can be secured to different deck thicknesses, but the installation process becomes tedious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting nut is divided into two functional segments: a sliding section that moves freely along the mounting shank to accommodate different positions, and a locking section that engages with the mounting shank when positioned. This segmentation allows the nut to adapt to various deck thicknesses without requiring full threading, thereby reducing installation time while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting nut transitions from a static threaded connection to a dynamic sliding and locking mechanism. The nut can slide freely along the mounting shank during installation to reach the desired position for different deck thicknesses, then locks in place using a locking cam or locking teeth. This dynamic behavior eliminates the need for time-consuming threading operations while maintaining adaptability.
2Reliability
If a conventional mounting nut is rotated along the mounting shank to secure the faucet, then the faucet is securely mounted, but the process requires multiple components and is complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting nut combines multiple functions into a single component: it provides threading engagement with the mounting shank, incorporates a locking mechanism (such as a locking cam or locking teeth), and includes positioning features for different deck thicknesses. This merging of functions into one integrated nut eliminates the need for separate locking components and simplifies the overall assembly while maintaining reliable secure mounting.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting nut is designed as a multi-functional component that can accommodate various deck thicknesses, provide secure locking, and enable easy installation. The universal design allows a single nut to perform multiple functions that would traditionally require separate components, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability.
3Productivity
If the mounting nut is angled relative to the faucet mounting shank to bypass threads and move freely, then the nut can be positioned quickly, but the threading engagement must be precise
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting nut is pre-configured with an angled orientation relative to the mounting shank, which allows it to bypass the threads during initial insertion and movement. This preliminary angular positioning enables the nut to move freely along the shank to the desired position before final threading engagement, thereby increasing installation speed. The pre-set angle ensures that when threading engagement occurs, the threads are already aligned, maintaining manufacturing precision.
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 simplifies faucet installation, reduces component count, and secures the faucet quickly and effectively to various deck thicknesses, enhancing installation efficiency and security.
Implementation Method 1
The illustrative mounting method works on the premise of friction and binding. When assembling, the nut is angled relative to the faucet mounting shank so that all threads are bypassed and the nut can be moved freely upward around the mounting shank.
Implementation Method 2
A nut includes a pipe section having an inner wall with internal threads. The inner wall defines a channel that is sized to receive the mounting shank such that the internal threads of the inner wall selectively mesh with the external threads of the mounting shank.
Implementation Method 3
An externally threaded screw is screwed through the threaded through-hole of the cantilevered arm until a distal end of the screw presses against the second surface of the mounting deck and biases the internal threads of the pipe section against the external threads of the mounting shank, thereby securing the faucet assembly to the mounting deck.
Implementation Method 4
A jack screw may then be tightened against the bottom surface of the deck to bias the threads together, lock in place, and act as a clamp.
Data Source
AI summary
A faucet assembly is mounted to a mounting deck that has a passageway extending from a first surface of the mounting deck to a second surface of the mounting deck. The faucet assembly includes a spout that emits a fluid therefrom. A base is installed on the first surface of the mounting deck and between the spout and the mounting deck. The base has a size and shape such that the base cannot pass through the passageway of the mounting deck when installed on the first surface. A mounting shank is connected to the base and is inserted in the passageway.The mounting shank having a circular outer surface having external threads thereon. A nut includes a pipe section having an inner wall with internal threads. The inner wall defines a channel that is sized to receive the mounting shank such that the internal threads of the inner wall mesh with the external threads of the mounting shank. A cantilevered arm extends from an outer wall of the pipe section. The cantilevered arm includes a threaded through-hole. An externally threaded screw is screwed through the threaded through-hole of the cantilevered arm until a distal end of the screw presses against the second surface of the mounting deck and biases the internal threads of the pipe section against the external threads of the mounting shank, thereby securing the faucet assembly to the mounting deck.