In-Wall Storage Enclosure for Space-Constrained Bathrooms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Bathrooms typically face limited space for storage due to standard framing construction, with inaccessible space within walls going unused, and existing solutions fail to efficiently utilize this space for storing bathroom supplies.
Innovation Solution
A device is mounted within the vacant space between studs, featuring compartments accessible through hinged doors and a trim structure to conceal gaps, allowing for secure and convenient storage of bathroom supplies, including a tissue paper roll holder, which can be used in both residential and commercial settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If standard framing construction is used, then structural integrity is ensured, but wall space becomes inaccessible for storage
Solution Approach 1:
The storage device is nested within the wall cavity space between studs, utilizing the empty volume that would otherwise be inaccessible. The enclosure fits inside the wall structure, effectively nesting storage functionality within the existing framing framework.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from surface-level wall storage to three-dimensional utilization of the wall cavity. By accessing the depth dimension within the wall structure rather than only the surface, additional storage volume becomes available without increasing the building's external footprint.
2Volume of stationary object
If wall space is utilized for storage, then storage capacity increases, but bathroom floor and counter space remains limited
Solution Approach 1:
The storage solution moves from two-dimensional surface storage (counters and floors) to three-dimensional wall cavity utilization. This dimensional shift allows storage capacity expansion without consuming valuable floor or counter area.
Solution Approach 2:
Storage functionality is extracted from the floor and counter surfaces and relocated to the wall cavity. This extraction frees up floor and counter space while maintaining or increasing overall storage capacity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If storage compartments are added to walls, then storage organization improves, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into modular components including the enclosure, shelf structure, trim pieces, and mounting elements. This segmentation allows for simplified manufacturing, easier installation, and flexible configuration within the wall cavity.
Solution Approach 2:
The device serves multiple functions: it provides storage organization, maintains flush exterior appearance, and can be installed during or after drywall application. The universal mounting approach accommodates different installation scenarios without requiring complex custom solutions.
4Shape
If trim structure is added to conceal gaps, then aesthetic appearance improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The trim structure acts as an intermediary element between the storage enclosure and the drywall surface. It conceals the gap and maintains aesthetic appearance while being a simple, separate component that can be manufactured independently and attached during installation.
Data Source
AI summary
A wall-mounted enclosure is provided to store bathroom supplies within the vacant space between the studs of standard residential framing. The device can either be mounted to existing drywall or mounted directly to a stud before drywall is applied to the standard residential framing. The device also includes a trim structure to conceal any gaps between the drywall cutaway and the device. The device includes individual compartments to store various bathroom supplies such as tissue paper rolls, air fresheners, cleaning supplies, personal hygiene supplies, and the like. The compartments are assessable through conveniently hinged compartment doors that protrude from the drywall surface. By placing this device within the space between framing studs, this allows the user to utilize storage space that was previously inaccessible, increasing convenience and overall storage space. This also provides better access to necessary bathroom necessities in smaller spaces where there is no preexisting storage. While the present invention may be used in residential bathrooms, the device may also be used in rooms of other function, for other items, and may also be used in commercial buildings.