Modular Sanitary System Wireless Module Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sanitary installation systems lack the flexibility to easily add additional functions to sanitary facilities like toilets without compromising their visual appearance or requiring complex wiring, and they are not easily retrofittable with new features.

Innovation Solution

A modular sanitary installation system comprising a cistern, mounting frame, communication device, and power supply device, which allows for the connection of multiple functional modules that provide additional functions such as contactless operation, odor extraction, and audio playback, using wireless data transmission and power supply, and can be integrated behind a plasterboard wall for a seamless installation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional sanitary installation systems are used, then the visual appearance of the sanitary facility is maintained, but the system lacks flexibility to add additional functions and requires complex wiring for each new function

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility to add additional functionsVSAvoidcomplex wiring
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the functional components into separate modules (communication device, power supply device, functional modules) that can be independently selected and connected. Each module performs a specific function (odor extraction, audio playback, contactless operation) and can be added or removed without affecting other components, enabling flexible configuration without complex integrated wiring

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting frame serves as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple different functional modules. The standardized connection interfaces allow various modules to be interconnected through a common power supply and communication system, providing multi-functionality through modular combinations rather than dedicated wiring for each function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If additional functional modules are added to enhance sanitary facility capabilities, then the functionality and user experience are improved, but the installation complexity and wiring requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadditional functionsVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting frame is pre-installed in the wall during construction, creating a ready-made infrastructure for later module installation. The power supply device and communication device are pre-configured with standardized connection interfaces, allowing functional modules to be simply plugged in without requiring complex installation procedures or additional wiring work

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting frame acts as an intermediary structure that mediates between the wall installation and the functional modules. It provides mechanical support, electrical power distribution, and data communication pathways, simplifying the installation process by eliminating the need for direct wiring connections between each module and the power/source

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Device complexity

If wireless communication and power supply are used to connect functional modules, then the wiring complexity is reduced and flexibility is improved, but the power transmission distance and reliability may be affected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewiring complexityVSAvoidpower transmission reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces traditional mechanical wiring connections with wireless communication technology for data transmission between modules. This substitution eliminates physical cable connections while maintaining reliable communication through wireless protocols, reducing wiring complexity without compromising system reliability

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

Data Source

PatentEP3392417B1Sanitary installation system with a modular functional system
Publication Date: 2021.07.21 GROHEDAL SANITARSYSTEME GMBH
  • EP3392417B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3392417B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3392417B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention relates to a sanitary installation system comprising a) a cistern; b) a mounting frame; and c) a modular functional system comprising i) a communication device, ii) a power supply device, and iii) a first functional module; wherein the cistern or the modular functional system, or both, are configured to be held by the mounting frame; wherein the power supply device is configured to supply power to the communication device; wherein the communication device is configured to receive data; wherein the first functional module is a. connected to the communication device for power supply and data transmission, b. configured to provide at least a first additional function for a sanitary installation, and c. includes a connection for power supply and data transmission to at least a second functional module.Furthermore, the invention relates to a device comprising the sanitary installation system; a method comprising connecting the sanitary installation system to the sanitary fixture; and the use of a handheld device or a remote control.