Low Profile Drain Interlocking Assembly for Mortar Bed Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing low profile drains face challenges in secure and stable installation, particularly in ensuring that components remain fixed during and after installation, and in accommodating varying sizes without compromising stability.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates interlocking mechanisms with angular protrusions and recesses in extrusion and connection channels, allowing for modular assembly and secure locking within a mortar bed, ensuring stability and flexibility in size adjustment during installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mortar bed installation is used for low profile drains, then the drain can be installed in the floor, but the components may flex or shift during installation and after installation
Solution Approach 1:
The drain is divided into multiple separate components (channel sections, end sections, transition sections) that can be individually installed and connected. Each component has integrated attachment features that provide localized stability points throughout the structure, preventing flexing while allowing modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
Attachment features such as clips, tabs, and recesses are nested within the wall structures of the drain components. These nested features create interlocking connections that rigidly join components together, preventing relative movement and maintaining structural integrity during and after installation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If low profile drain components are made rigid to prevent flexing, then installation stability improves, but the ability to accommodate varying sizes and configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The drain system is segmented into standardized modular components that can be assembled in various configurations. Each module maintains rigid internal structure for stability, while the modular nature allows flexible arrangement to accommodate different sizes and layouts in various installation environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The drain components feature flexible attachment mechanisms that allow for dynamic adjustment during assembly. Clips and connectors can be engaged or disengaged to accommodate different configuration needs, while maintaining rigid structural integrity once assembled, thus providing both adaptability and stability.
3Ease of manufacture
If multiple drain components are connected using traditional methods, then assembly is simple, but the connections may not be secure enough to prevent movement during installation
Solution Approach 1:
Security clips and attachment tabs are nested within recesses formed in the walls of adjacent components. This nested configuration creates positive mechanical interlocking that secures connections firmly, preventing movement during installation while maintaining relatively simple assembly through snap-fit or tool-less engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The drain components utilize composite construction combining rigid structural elements with integrated attachment features. The combination of rigid walls providing structural support and specialized attachment zones providing secure connection ensures both connection security and assembly simplicity through designed integration of functions.
Data Source
AI summary
A low profile drain includes a first extrusion channel extending lengthwise in a first direction, a second extrusion channel extending lengthwise in the first direction, and a connection channel extending lengthwise in the first direction. The connection channel is configured to interlock with an end of the first extrusion channel via a first interlocking mechanism, and interlock with an end of the second extrusion channel via a second interlocking mechanism. The first interlocking mechanism includes at least one first angular protrusion disposed on the first extrusion channel, and a first angular recess disposed on the connection channel. The at least one first angular protrusion is configured to interlock with the first angular recess.