Integrated Lavatory Fixture Layout for Basin-Side Hand Washing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lavatory systems require additional space for multi-function fixtures that combine soap dispensing, water supply, and hand drying, leading to an undesirable mess due to the need for users to move between separate stations, and existing solutions are not space-efficient.
Innovation Solution
A multi-function lavatory fixture with a single casting that includes legs extending over the basin, a connecting section with outlets for soap and water dispensing, and sensors to activate the appropriate dispensing mechanisms, along with visual indicators to guide users, all integrated within the existing space of a wash station.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate soap dispensers, wash basins with faucets, and hand dryers are used, then each function can be performed independently, but users must move between stations creating mess and wasting time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines soap dispenser, water faucet, and hand dryer into a single integrated fixture mounted over the basin. The fixture includes a soap dispensing outlet, water dispensing outlet, and air outlet all in one structure, eliminating the need for users to move between separate stations and reducing mess from dripping soap and water.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixture serves multiple functions simultaneously: dispensing soap, dispensing water, and drying hands. This multi-functional design consolidates what were previously separate single-function devices into one universal unit, improving operational convenience and reducing time loss.
2Ease of operation
If a drying station is added to the wash basin, then the entire hand washing and drying process can be completed at one location, but the basin size and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The hand dryer and other components are integrated within and around the existing basin structure. The fixture is mounted over the basin with components nested in a compact arrangement, utilizing vertical space and existing basin footprint rather than requiring additional horizontal space.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from horizontal expansion (adding separate stations side-by-side) to vertical integration (stacking functions in one fixture over the basin). The fixture extends upward from the deck with outlets positioned at different heights, utilizing the vertical dimension to accommodate multiple functions within the same floor space.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fixtures (soap dispenser, faucet, hand dryer) are positioned on the deck, then each function is available, but the arrangement requires more space and complex positioning
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple dispensing functions are merged into a single fixture structure. The soap outlet, water outlet, and air outlet are all integrated into one mounted unit, simplifying the arrangement from multiple separate fixtures to one consolidated device with reduced positioning complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for a multi-function lavatory fixture are disclosed. The lavatory fixture includes a first and second leg, where a first end of each leg is configured to be mounted to a deck and a second end of each leg is located over a basin of the lavatory fixture. A connecting section extends between the second ends of each leg and includes outlets to dispense water and soap to wash a user's hands. The fixture also includes indicators located proximate each of the outlets to indicate to the user the location of each outlet. A sensor located near each outlet identifies the presence of a user's hands near the outlet and dispenses water and soap, accordingly. A controller within the lavatory fixture receives inputs from each sensor and activates the appropriate pump or valve to deliver the desired product at the appropriate outlet.