Multi-section bathing structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional prefabricated bathing structures face challenges with complex and time-consuming assembly processes, potential leakage issues due to simple or complex inter-section joints, and the risk of lost fasteners during installation, especially in tight spaces.
Innovation Solution
A multi-section bathing structure design featuring sections with integrated latches and circumferentially extending troughs or channels to facilitate tool-free assembly and prevent leakage, using polymeric materials and reinforcements for stability and water management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional brackets and nut and bolt fasteners are used to join sections, then structural integrity is achieved, but assembly becomes time-consuming and requires tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fastening function and structural support into a single integrated bracket assembly. The bracket includes integrated fasteners that are pre-attached to the first section, merging multiple components (bracket body + fasteners) into one unit that simplifies assembly while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The fasteners are pre-attached to the bracket in a preliminary manufacturing step, so that during assembly the bracket arrives at the installation site already prepared with fasteners attached. This preliminary action eliminates the need for separate fastener installation steps during on-site assembly.
2Reliability
If conventional nut and bolt fasteners are used, then secure connection is achieved, but fasteners may become lost during assembly in tight spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The fasteners are merged with the bracket structure through integration. The fasteners are pre-attached to the bracket body, forming a single assembled unit that prevents fasteners from becoming detached or lost during the assembly process in confined spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket serves as an intermediary component that holds the fasteners in a controlled position during assembly. By attaching fasteners to the bracket rather than handling them separately, the bracket mediates the connection process and prevents fastener loss.
3Ease of operation
If simple inter-section joints are used, then assembly is easier, but leakage becomes more likely
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket assembly serves as an intermediary component between sections that provides both mechanical connection and sealing functions. The bracket includes integrated sealing elements that mediate the joint between sections, preventing leakage while maintaining assembly simplicity.
4Reliability
If clips with complex geometry are used to prevent leakage, then leakage prevention is improved, but assembly becomes more time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function and structural connection function are merged into a single bracket assembly. The bracket includes integrated sealing elements that are part of the same component providing mechanical support, eliminating the need for separate complex sealing clips.
Data Source
AI summary
A basin section, wall section, and a canopy section for a multi-section bathing structure are disclosed. Each of the basin and wall sections include a wall including an offset wall portion including an upper portion extending in a generally vertical direction, and an outboard trough portion including a flange extending away from the upper portion in a generally horizontal direction, and a rim extending away from the flange in a generally vertical direction. The canopy section includes a canopy roof, a canopy wall extending in a direction away from the canopy roof, and including a canopy section lower end extending in a generally vertical direction and a canopy outboard flange extending away from the canopy section lower end in a generally horizontal direction and axially terminating the canopy wall. Each of the sections also may include a section reinforcement and a latch portion coupled to the section reinforcement.