Method for fixing an object to a wall, sanitary facility having an object being fixed to a wall and a set including an object and at least one first metallic element

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for attaching sanitary fittings or objects to walls, such as remote controls, often damage the surface or visually impair the wall, risking liquid ingress and aesthetic issues.

Innovation Solution

Integration of multiple metallic elements, such as magnets, within the wall allows for secure magnetic attachment of objects without visible damage or impairment, using a magnetic force that is adjustable based on element size and distribution.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If adhesive or screws are used to fix the object to the wall, then the object can be securely attached, but the wall surface is damaged and visually impaired

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment strengthVSAvoidwall surface integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical attachment methods (adhesives and screws) with a magnetic field-based attachment system. Metallic elements are embedded in the wall and interact magnetically with the object containing opposing magnetic elements, eliminating the need for mechanical penetration or chemical bonding that damages the wall surface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the physical state and properties of the attachment system by using magnetic fields instead of mechanical forces. The metallic elements in the wall and opposing magnetic elements in the object create magnetic attraction that can be adjusted by changing the number, size, and distribution of magnetic elements, providing secure attachment without wall damage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Strength

If screws are used to fix the object to the wall, then the object can be securely attached, but liquid can enter the wall and cause damage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment strengthVSAvoidliquid ingress risk
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent eliminates screw holes and penetration points that allow liquid ingress by replacing mechanical attachment with magnetic attachment. The metallic elements are embedded within the wall material itself, creating a sealed interface that prevents liquid from entering the wall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Strength

If adhesive or screws are used to fix the object to the wall, then the object can be securely attached, but fixing material and holes are visible impairing the wall appearance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment strengthVSAvoidwall surface appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces visible mechanical attachment methods with magnetic attachment where the metallic elements are embedded within the wall material and not visible from the surface. The object attaches magnetically without requiring visible screws, adhesive lines, or other attachment materials that would mar the wall appearance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Enables secure, damage-free, and aesthetically pleasing attachment of objects to walls, preventing liquid ingress and maintaining the wall's appearance, with the option for easy detachment and reattachment.

Implementation Method 1

a plurality of first metallic element is arranged in the wall, said plurality of first metallic element being used to fix the object to the wall by magnetic force

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic force: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP3805481B1Method for fixing an object to a wall, sanitary facility having an object being fixed to a wall and a set including an object and at least one first metallic element
Publication Date: 2024.01.17 GROHE AG
  • EP3805481B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3805481B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Method for fixing an object (1) to a wall (2), wherein at least one first metallic element (3) is arranged in the wall (2), said at least one first metallic element (3) being used to fix the object (1) to the wall (2) by magnetic force. Furthermore, a sanitary facility (10) and a set (11) comprising the object (1) and the at least one first metallic element (3) are proposed.