Flush Reservoir Operating Element Frame Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing built-in reservoir systems in sanitary spaces, such as toilets, face hygienic issues due to sliding and rotating frame parts and the inability to access inspection openings when a thick finishing layer is applied, as the push plate becomes enclosed and cannot be removed.

Innovation Solution

The operating element's frame is arranged partially or fully within the wall opening, allowing it to be flush or recessed, preventing sliding and enabling easy access, with optional features like a box-like frame for storage, light barriers for contact-free operation, and adjustable sub-frames for fine positioning, independent of wall thickness or finishing layers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If the frame part is not mounted on the wall itself, then the operating element can be installed easily, but the frame part can slide and rotate, creating hygienic issues

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of installationVSAvoidhygiene
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The frame is extracted from the wall-mounted configuration and repositioned to be integrated into the opening in the pre-wall. This extraction eliminates the sliding and rotating movement that caused hygienic issues, while the frame remains accessible for installation and operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The frame is merged with the opening structure in the pre-wall, creating an integrated assembly where the frame forms part of the wall opening rather than being separately mounted on the wall surface. This merging prevents sliding and rotating while maintaining installation ease.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Shape

If a thick finishing layer is applied on the wall, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but the push plate becomes enclosed and cannot be removed for access to the inspection opening

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaesthetic appearanceVSAvoidaccess to inspection opening
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The frame is positioned in the depth dimension of the wall opening rather than being mounted on the surface dimension. This allows the finishing layer to be applied over the frame without preventing access, as the frame extends into the wall thickness providing a pathway through the finishing layer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The frame acts as an intermediary structure that extends through the finishing layer, providing a mechanical pathway for access to the inspection opening while allowing the finishing layer to maintain its aesthetic appearance over the frame structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the frame is arranged in the opening, then the operating element position is independent of wall thickness, but the frame structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition independenceVSAvoidframe structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frame structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the operating element, creates the opening in the pre-wall, provides a mounting surface for the operating button, and acts as a pathway through the finishing layer. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components despite the integrated complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP2441895B1Combination of a cistern for a toilet, a wall arranged in front of the cistern and a control element for controling the cistern
Publication Date: 2019.12.04 EASY SANITAIRY SOLUTIONS BV
  • EP2441895B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2441895B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP2441895B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

The invention relates to a combination of a flush reservoir (10) for a toilet, a wall (2) arranged in front of the flush reservoir (10) and an operating element (6,7,8,9) for operating the flush reservoir, wherein the operating element is arranged on the wall outside the projection of the flush reservoir. The wall can optionally comprise an opening, wherein the operating element comprises a frame (3), which frame is arranged at least partially in the opening and wherein the front surface of the frame lies flush with, or recessed relative to, the front surface of the wall.