Kitchen countertop with connection profile
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Solution Overview
Problem
The use of ceramic or composite materials for thick kitchen countertops is limited by their significant weight and the challenges of bonding thin components, which can lead to adhesive bleed-out and reduced durability.
Innovation Solution
A frame with connecting profiles having a pentagonal cross-section is used to securely attach thin ceramic or composite work surfaces to edge parts, ensuring a strong bond and structural integrity through optimized adhesive placement and collection of excess adhesive.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a thicker work surface is used to achieve the desired aesthetic appearance, then the aesthetic quality and feeling of durability are improved, but the weight of the kitchen countertop increases significantly and the material becomes more prone to cracking
Solution Approach 1:
The work surface is divided into two separate components: a thin main work surface and a separate edge part. The thin work surface maintains the desired aesthetic appearance while the edge part adds the visual illusion of thickness. This segmentation allows achieving the aesthetic goal of a thick countertop without the weight and structural problems of actually using a thick work surface.
2Weight of moving object
If a thin work surface with an added edge part is used, then the weight is reduced and aesthetic properties are maintained, but the bonding reliability between the two components becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting profile introduces a vertical dimension to the bonding process by creating a stepped configuration with multiple bonding surfaces at different heights. The first bonding surface bonds the edge part to the bottom surface of the work surface, while the second bonding surface bonds the edge part to the side surface of the work surface. This multi-dimensional bonding approach significantly enhances bonding reliability compared to traditional single-surface bonding.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional bonding methods are used on a limited surface, then the bonding process is simple, but adhesive bleed-out occurs and the bonding strength is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting profile creates a stepped configuration that provides multiple bonding surfaces at different heights and locations. This multi-dimensional bonding approach distributes the adhesive across larger total surface area, preventing bleed-out while maintaining strong bonds. The first bonding surface is located at the bottom of the work surface and the second bonding surface is located on the side surface, creating redundant bonding paths that enhance overall bond strength.
4Strength
If adhesive is applied generously to ensure strong bonding, then the bonding strength is improved, but adhesive bleed-out occurs and aesthetics are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting profile design extracts and contains the adhesive within specific bonding zones defined by the multiple surfaces. The stepped configuration creates natural barriers that confine the adhesive to the bonding interfaces, preventing it from flowing down the visible edges. This allows generous adhesive application for strong bonding without compromising the aesthetic appearance of the finished countertop.
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
This method results in a durable, aesthetically appealing, and structurally stable kitchen countertop with reduced weight, allowing for customization and improved sound insulation.
Implementation Method 1
a first bonding surface is located at the bottom of the work surface and comprises a first adhesive side of the connecting profile, a second bonding surface is located on the side surface of the work surface and comprises a second adhesive side of the connecting profile
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The present invention relates to a kitchen countertop, comprising: a work surface made of natural stone, ceramic or composite, comprising a top, a bottom and sides; one or more edge parts made of natural stone, ceramic or composite, comprising a front and a back, the back of each edge part being provided on a side of the work surface; a frame glued to the bottom of the work surface; in particular the frame comprises one or more connecting profiles for connecting each edge part to the work surface, wherein the connecting profiles are glued to the bottom of the work surface, wherein a connecting profile is glued to the back of each edge part, wherein each connecting profile has a pentagonal cross-section, comprising three right angles and two obtuse angles. The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing a kitchen countertop made of natural stone, ceramics or composite.