Modular Linear Shower Drain With Adjustable Length and Float Sticks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional elongate linear drains require time-consuming and unreliable installation methods and are typically made of metallic materials, necessitating multiple inventory sizes for varying lengths, whereas there is a need for a non-metallic, modular solution that can utilize float sticks for efficient installation.
Innovation Solution
A modular, non-metallic linear drain system comprising a drain base, extension members, inserts, and end caps, with float stick mounting members and spacers, allowing for adjustable length and easy installation using patented float sticks, formed from materials like acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) for compatibility with existing shower installations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional metallic linear drains are used, then durability is improved, but installation time increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The linear drain is divided into multiple modular segments that can be independently manufactured and then quickly assembled on-site. Each segment contains standardized connection features that enable rapid joining without complex installation procedures, thus reducing installation time while maintaining structural integrity through the modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The drain system incorporates adjustable components that allow the length and configuration to be dynamically modified during installation to fit different shower sizes and layouts. This adaptability eliminates the need for precise pre-measurement and custom fabrication, significantly speeding up the installation process while ensuring proper fit and function
2Strength
If conventional metallic linear drains are used, then strength is improved, but installation reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The drain is segmented into standardized modules with consistent connection interfaces, ensuring that each joint is assembled in the same reliable manner. This standardization reduces installation variability and ensures consistent performance across the entire drain system, improving installation reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The modular segments incorporate standardized intermediate connection components that act as mediators between different drain sections. These standardized intermediaries ensure proper alignment, sealing, and mechanical connection, eliminating the reliability issues associated with custom or ad-hoc connection methods
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple inventory sizes of linear drains are maintained, then adaptability to different shower lengths is improved, but inventory complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of stocking complete drains in multiple sizes, the system segments the drain into standardized modules that can be combined in various quantities. This allows the same base inventory of modular segments to create drains of any required length, eliminating the need to maintain multiple complete drain inventories while preserving full adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The modular segments are designed with universal connection features and standardized dimensions that allow them to serve multiple functions and be used in various configurations. A single type of modular segment can be used to create drains of different lengths and configurations, making the inventory system universally applicable to all shower sizes
Data Source
AI summary
An elongate linear drain for a shower includes an elongate, channel-shaped drain body, an elongate, channel-shaped extension that is connectable to either end of the drain body, elongate inserts that are nested within the drain body and the extension, and end walls that cap the ends of the drain body and the ends of the extension. Mounting members are formed along an outboard side of each sidewall of the drain body and the extensions and the mounting members are engaged by float sticks to facilitate the sloping of the floor that leads to the linear drain. Height adjustment screws formed in the respective bottom walls of the drain body and extensions enable height adjustment of the inserts. This enables the tile that overlies the shower floor to be flush with the tile that overlies the insert.