Faucet Mounting Shank With Spring Clip And Offset Axis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional faucet mounting systems are complex and expensive to assemble, and they provide limited space for water tubes and electrical wires within the faucet fixture.
Innovation Solution
A faucet mounting system featuring a lower mounting shank with a skirt and spring clip design that includes a keyway and angular grooves to securely attach the shank to the upper fixture, allowing for axial and rotational positioning, and providing additional space through offset longitudinal axes for water tubes and electrical wires.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional threaded mounting shanks and mounting nuts are used, then secure mounting is achieved, but assembly complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spring clip integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides axial retention through its clipped engagement with the sink deck, rotational positioning through engagement with angular grooves in the mounting hub, and structural support for the mounting shank. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate mounting nuts and positioning elements, simplifying assembly while maintaining secure mounting.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring clip is designed to be self-retaining through its elastic properties. When compressed, the spring clip snaps into place within the mounting hub, automatically securing the mounting shank without requiring additional fastening operations. The elastic deformation and recovery of the spring clip provides self-locking functionality that eliminates complex assembly procedures.
2Reliability
If conventional mounting shank design is used, then mounting function is provided, but space for water tubes and electrical wires is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting shank design transitions from a conventional solid cylindrical form to a hollow tubular structure with a hollow interior cavity. This dimensional change creates additional internal volume within the mounting shank itself, providing space for routing water tubes and electrical wires through the center of the shank, thereby increasing internal space without adding external dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The hollow interior cavity of the mounting shank creates a nested structure where water tubes and electrical wires can be positioned within the hollow space of the mounting shank. This nesting arrangement allows conduit and wiring to be integrated within the mounting structure itself, optimizing space utilization and providing additional room for faucet components.
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
Simplifies the assembly process, increases space within the faucet fixture for components, and securely positions the mounting shank, enhancing the installation and operational efficiency of faucet systems.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one spring clip is recessed radially within the outer surface of the skirt wall in a compressed position, and the at least one spring clip extends radially outside of the outer surface of the skirt wall in an extended position
Data Source
AI summary
A faucet mounting system includes an upper fixture including an outer wall defining a chamber, and at least one groove formed within an inner surface of the outer wall. A lower mounting shank extends below the upper fixture and includes a skirt, a post extending downwardly from the skirt, and at least one spring clip. The at least one spring clip is recessed within an outer surface of the skirt in a compressed position, and extending outside of the outer surface of the skirt in an extended position.