Handshower Holder with Sliding Docking Station for Grab Bar
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional showerheads are inflexible and pose difficulties for users, especially disabled or elderly individuals, due to fixed docking positions that are not easily movable, limiting control over water spray direction and accessibility.
Innovation Solution
A handshower assembly with a docking station that includes a body with a first and second removable portion, allowing the handshower to be removably supported and mounted on a grab bar, enabling movement and adjustable positioning for greater user flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional fixed showerhead is used, then the showerhead is stable and easy to install, but the user has limited control over water spray direction and the docking position is not accessible to disabled or elderly users
Solution Approach 1:
The docking station is divided into a stationary base portion and a movable holder portion. The holder can be positioned at different locations along the grab bar and secured in place, allowing users to access comfortable positions while maintaining structural stability through the fixed base.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder is designed to be movable along the grab bar, transitioning from a fixed conventional showerhead to a dynamic repositionable holder. This allows users to adjust the position to their needs while the stem adapter mechanism provides secure fixation when positioned.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a semi-permanent docking station is installed, then the handshower can be docked at a fixed position, but the docking position cannot be easily moved or repositioned
Solution Approach 1:
The docking station uses separable components including a base portion that attaches to the wall and a holder portion that moves along the grab bar. This segmentation allows easy repositioning by simply moving the holder while keeping the base fixed, without requiring complex installation changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The stem adapter acts as an intermediary mechanism between the holder and the handshower stem. It provides a simple mechanical interface that allows the holder to secure the handshower at any position along the grab bar without complex fastening systems.
3Ease of operation
If the docking position is fixed at conventional showerhead location, then the installation is simple, but disabled or elderly users cannot reach the docking position
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is designed to slide along the length of the grab bar, allowing users to position it at any location that is accessible to them. This dynamic positioning capability enables disabled or elderly users to place the holder at a reachable height and location while still providing handshower support.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder serves multiple functions: it supports the handshower, provides a docking position, and acts as a positioning mechanism along the grab bar. This multi-functionality allows a single component to address both the support need and the accessibility requirement.
Data Source
AI summary
A handshower assembly includes a docking station with a first portion and a removable second portion. The docking station is configured to mount to a grab bar of a tub or shower and move relative to the grab bar for a user to position a handshower as desired.