Sanitary Flush Button Snap-On Decorative Panel Replacement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing actuating devices for cisterns face complexity in replacing decorative panels, which are often attached with adhesive strips or require significant effort, affecting ease of installation and aesthetics.

Innovation Solution

A mechanical attachment system using a snap-on frame that covers the outer edge of the decorative panel, allowing for easy and quick replacement, with the frame and panel designed to be aesthetically cohesive and made from materials like die-cast zinc for stability and design advantages.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If decorative panels are attached with adhesive strips or complex mechanical systems, then the attachment is secure, but the replacement process becomes complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment securityVSAvoidreplacement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The actuating device is divided into separable components: a cover plate that remains fixed and a decorative panel that can be independently removed and replaced. This segmentation allows the decorative panel to be changed without affecting the structural integrity of the entire device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment system transitions from a static permanent bond (adhesive) to a dynamic reversible connection (snap-fit mechanism). The resilient tongues provide a mechanical connection that is secure during use but easily reversible when replacement is needed, enabling quick swapping of decorative panels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Stability of the object's composition

If decorative panels are permanently attached with adhesive, then the finish is clean and stable, but the panels cannot be easily replaced for maintenance or design changes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepanel stabilityVSAvoidpanel replaceability
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment system transitions from a static permanent bond (adhesive) to a dynamic reversible connection (snap-fit mechanism). The resilient tongues provide a mechanical connection that is secure during use but easily reversible when replacement is needed, enabling quick swapping of decorative panels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

Resilient tongues act as an intermediary mechanism between the decorative panel and the cover plate. These tongues provide both secure attachment during normal use and easy release when replacement is required, mediating between the conflicting requirements of stability and replaceability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If multiple attachment points are used to secure the decorative panel, then the attachment is more reliable, but the assembly process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment reliabilityVSAvoidassembly simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The actuating device is divided into separable components: a cover plate that remains fixed and a decorative panel that can be independently removed and replaced. This segmentation allows the decorative panel to be changed without affecting the structural integrity of the entire device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The resilient tongues automatically engage with the cover plate when the decorative panel is installed, providing self-aligning and self-securing functionality. This eliminates the need for precise manual alignment or additional fastening operations, simplifying the assembly process while maintaining reliable attachment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP2045404B1Push-button for operating a flushing mechanism
Publication Date: 2014.02.26 GEBERIT INT AG
  • EP2045404B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP2045404B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5

AI summary

The actuating device (1) has a detachable fastening frame (C) deployed in an opening (4) of a sanitary apparatus (2). A detachable cover plate (B) is fastened on a fastening frame and a decorative plate is fastened on the cover plate. The decorative plate is supported in a holding frame and forms a decorative element (A), which is detachably superimposed on the cover plate.