Interlocking Faucet Fluid Distribution Assembly for Fastener-Free Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing faucets face challenges in assembly and fastening, particularly during installation on countertops, where parts are subject to wear and tear, and require simple manipulation with minimal components to maintain functionality.
Innovation Solution
A faucet design featuring a fluid distribution assembly with interlocking conduits and a housing that uses nipples with rims for retention, allowing for easy assembly and secure mounting without additional fixation means, utilizing a combination of longitudinal and transverse retention mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate fasteners and fixation means are used to assemble conduit components, then the connection strength and reliability are improved, but the device complexity and number of parts increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastening functions into a single integrated nipple component. The nipple includes an interlocking portion for mechanical engagement and a retention portion that works with a retention feature to secure the conduit assembly, eliminating the need for separate fasteners and reducing part count while maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The nipple serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, enables interlocking connection between components, and works with the retention feature to prevent disassembly. This multi-functional design replaces what would traditionally require multiple specialized components.
2Ease of operation
If traditional faucet assembly methods are used, then the structural integrity is maintained, but the ease of assembly and manipulation during installation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The faucet assembly is divided into modular components (conduits, nipple, retention feature) that can be assembled independently and then connected. This segmentation allows for easier handling and assembly while the interlocking and retention mechanisms ensure structural integrity is maintained upon connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The interlocking portion and retention feature are designed to automatically secure components together through their geometric configuration, reducing the need for additional fastening operations or complex assembly procedures while ensuring reliable structural connection.
3Ease of manufacture
If simple retention mechanisms are used for conduit assembly, then the ease of manufacture and assembly is improved, but the durability and resistance to wear and tear is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The nipple and retention feature are designed as integrated components that combine different geometric features (interlocking portions, retention portions, engagement features) to achieve both ease of assembly and high durability. The composite structural design allows simple manufacturing while ensuring resistance to wear and tear through the interlocking and retention mechanisms.
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b~1c
Figure 1d~1e
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a fluid distribution assembly (15, 15', 15A - 15K) for a faucet (1, 1', 1A - 1K). The fluid distribution assembly (15, 15', 15A - 15K) comprises a body (20, 20', 20A - 20K) having a first receptacle (6c, 6c', 6cA - 6cK) and a second receptacle (8c, 8c', 8cA - 8cK), a first conduit (6, 6', 6A - 6K) and a second conduit (8, 8', 8A - 8K), each conduit (6, 6', 6A - 6K, 8, 8', 8A - 8K) having an assembly end (6b, 6b', 6A - 6K, 8b, 8', 8A - 8K). The assembly end (6b, 6b', 6bA - 6bK) of the first conduit (6, 6', 6A - 6K) is adapted to be received in the first receptacle (6c, 6c', 6cA - 6cK), and the assembly end (8b, 8', 8A - 8K) of the second conduit (8, 8', 8A - 8K) is adapted to be received in the second receptacle (8c, 8c', 8cA - 8cK). The assembly end (6b, 6b', 6bA - 6bK) of the first conduit (6, 6', 6A - 6K) is adapted to retain the assembly end (8b, 8', 8A - 8K) of the second conduit (8, 8', 8A - 8K) in the fluid distribution assembly (15, 15', 15A - 15K) in an assembled state of the fluid distribution assembly (15, 15', 15A - 15K). The present disclosure also relates to a faucet (1, 1', 1A - 1K) having such a fluid distribution assembly (15, 15', 15A-15K).