Hinged Shower Panel for Simplified Wall Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional shower panels are difficult to install and remove, particularly in communal settings, due to their weight and the complexity of connecting pipes, often requiring two people and complicating maintenance and seasonal storage operations.
Innovation Solution
A shower panel design featuring a U-shaped box that can be surface-mounted on a wall with hinges allowing up to 160° deflection, and a removable control element cassette that can be installed after the panel is fixed, simplifying installation and allowing for easier access and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the shower panel is fixed directly to the wall using screws, then the panel is securely mounted, but the installation becomes particularly difficult and requires at least two people due to the total weight of the panel
Solution Approach 1:
The shower panel is divided into two separate components: a fixed support structure mounted to the wall and a removable panel that attaches to the support. This segmentation allows the heavy panel to be detached from the mounting task, enabling one person to install the support while another handles the panel separately, then easily attach them together without requiring two people to hold the entire assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
A support structure acts as an intermediary between the wall and the shower panel. This support bears the full weight of the panel when mounted, allowing the panel to be securely fixed to the support rather than directly to the wall. The support serves as a mechanical mediator that simplifies the installation process by separating the mounting function from the panel attachment function.
2Strength
If the panel is fixed directly to the wall, then the mounting is secure, but repairs become complicated as the panel must be removed and reinstalled
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the shower system into a fixed support and a removable panel, the invention allows the panel to be easily detached from the support for repairs. The support remains permanently mounted to the wall maintaining security, while the panel can be quickly removed and reattached without complex operations, significantly simplifying maintenance and repair activities.
3Strength
If the panel is fixed directly to the wall, then the mounting is secure, but winterizing operations require removing and storing the panels which involves complicated operations and requires space to store them
Solution Approach 1:
The segmentation of the shower system into a permanent support structure and a removable panel enables simple winterizing operations. The support remains fixed to the wall while only the lighter panel needs to be removed for storage. This is much simpler than removing entire fixed panels and requires minimal storage space, as the panel can be folded or compacted more easily than a complete fixed assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces dynamic flexibility to the shower system by making the panel removable rather than fixed. This allows the system to adapt between permanent installation mode and storage mode, enabling easy seasonal adjustments without complicated removal and reinstallation procedures required by traditional fixed panels.
4Stability of the object's composition
If the control elements are fixed inside the panel, then the structure is integrated, but replacement of faulty control elements becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The control elements are segregated from the main panel structure and mounted on a separate removable plate or module. This segmentation maintains the integrated appearance and structural stability of the panel while allowing the control element assembly to be independently removed and replaced. Technicians can access and replace faulty control elements by simply detaching the plate rather than disassembling the entire panel, significantly simplifying maintenance operations.
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
The design facilitates simpler and lighter installation, reduces the need for multiple personnel, and allows for easier removal and storage, enhancing operational efficiency and user accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
The open case is mounted pivotally by means of at least one hinge, in particular two hinges, lower and upper
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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AI summary
Method for fitting a shower panel, notably for communal use, intended to be surface-mounted on a wall, comprising a housing (1) of U-shaped cross section defining, between its opening and at least one front wall (2), an interior space housing the shower control elements, notably on a timer, and the pipes or ducts for connecting the hot and/or cold water inlets, the controls and at least one main water outlet, notably fitted with a showerhead, and at least one element for supporting the panel on the wall, which element is intended to be fixed to the wall, for example two crossmembers - an upper and a lower one -, and characterized in that it comprises the following steps: the support is fixed to the wall; then the U-shaped housing is fixed to the support and the interior space is closed.