Modular Floor Sink Frame and Grate Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard floor sink designs require multiple sizes of grates and covers to accommodate different configurations, leading to inefficiencies in manufacturing and installation due to the need for extensive inventory and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A modular design for a floor sink frame and grate assembly that allows for the construction of whole, one-half, and three-quarter configurations using two stock sizes, where interchangeable grate members with openings or solid members can be combined to achieve various configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standard floor sink designs use separate grates for each configuration (whole, one-half, three-quarter), then each configuration can be accommodated, but manufacturing complexity and inventory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The grate is divided into modular sections that can be assembled in different configurations. The frame structure is segmented into multiple attachable grate members, allowing customers to select and assemble only the portions needed for their specific application, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining configuration versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
A single frame structure serves multiple functions by accommodating different grate configurations through interchangeable grate members. The universal frame design allows the same base structure to support whole, one-half, and three-quarter grate configurations, eliminating the need for separate manufacturing processes for each variant.
2Adaptability or versatility
If standard floor sink designs stock multiple sizes of grates and covers, then all configurations can be accommodated, but inventory requirements and storage space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The grate system is segmented into standardized modules that can be combined in different proportions to create various configurations. Instead of stocking complete grates for each size variant, the system requires inventory of only the basic modular components, significantly reducing the quantity of items that need to be stored and managed.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple grate configurations are merged into a single inventory system by using interchangeable grate members. The frame structure integrates multiple attachment points that accept the same grate members in different arrangements, allowing one inventory of modular components to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate inventory lines for different grate sizes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If standard floor sink designs provide separate grates for each configuration, then configuration specificity is maintained, but installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The grate assembly is segmented into pre-fabricated modular sections that can be independently handled and assembled. This segmentation allows installers to quickly identify and attach only the necessary components for the required configuration, reducing installation time while maintaining the ability to create specific configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure is pre-configured with multiple attachment points and pre-fabricated grate members are prepared in advance with standardized connection interfaces. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for custom fabrication or complex assembly procedures during installation, allowing rapid deployment of different configurations without compromising specificity.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular design for a floor sink frame and grate assembly. The standard floor grate sizes are whole, one half, and three-quarter. Instead of stocking each of these sizes, the present invention provides a modular system where individual pieces can be stocked and combined to form all of the above configurations.