Modular Thermostatic Fitting with Segmented Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional embedded thermostatic fittings require large trim plates to conceal masonry openings and have limited accessibility for maintenance or repair due to their integrated design.
Innovation Solution
A modular thermostatic fitting comprising separate intake, mixing, and distribution modules connected via piping sectors, housed in a container that acts as packaging, allowing for reduced masonry openings and easy embedding, with separate check valves and filters for improved maintenance access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional integrated thermostatic fittings are used, then all tap elements are contained in a single casing, but the masonry opening must be concealed by large trim plates
Solution Approach 1:
The thermostatic fitting is divided into separate modules (intake module, mixing module, distribution module) that can be installed independently, eliminating the need for a single large integrated casing and reducing the required masonry opening area
2Device complexity
If conventional integrated thermostatic fittings are used, then all components are housed in one casing, but accessibility for maintenance or repair is limited
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the fitting into modular components, each module can be independently accessed, removed, and maintained, significantly improving accessibility for repair and cleaning operations compared to integrated designs where all components are enclosed in a single casing
Solution Approach 2:
The check valves and filters are extracted as separate accessible components that can be independently removed and maintained without disassembling the entire fitting, enabling easy cleaning and replacement
3Ease of repair
If modular design is used, then accessibility for maintenance is improved, but the number of separate components increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each module is designed with multi-functionality, performing multiple operations within compact dimensions, which offsets the increase in component count by reducing the overall spatial footprint and installation complexity
Data Source
Figure 1~3
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Figure 7~9
AI summary
The present invention refers to a thermostatic fitting for bath/shower that comprises three separate modules, intake module (5), mixing module (6) and distribution module (7), connected to each other via piping sectors, the said thermostatic fitting being housed in a container (8) that acts as packaging, allowing embedded wall mounting, in a horizontal or vertical position, this mode of packaging being another construction element, so that once the container (8) is embedded, the thermostatic fitting easily remains flush and level with the wall, making it possible, given that the modules are separate, for the front of the container (8) to be tiled, with a decorative covering in between the modules, providing a very different aesthetic and practical option, the different intake (5), mixing (6) and distribution (7) modules remaining concealed by means of the insertion of the corresponding caps and knobs.