One-Piece Recessed Frame for Sanitary Installations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current recessed frames for sanitary installations are complex and costly due to their multi-component structure, requiring assembly stages that complicate and increase the installation costs of sanitary appliances.
Innovation Solution
A one-piece recessed frame made from a single material, such as plastic or aluminum, integrating a box of actuation mechanisms, a water tank, and a lower structure with a height adjustment mechanism, designed for easy assembly and aesthetic appeal, where all components are molded together to simplify installation and reduce material usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a multi-component frame structure is used, then the frame can provide functional versatility, but the assembly complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functional components (water tank, actuation mechanisms, lower structure, crossbeams, exhaust duct) into a single integrated frame structure made of one-piece molded plastic. This merging eliminates the need for separate metal elements, plastic parts, and rubber components that would otherwise require assembly, thereby reducing assembly complexity while maintaining all necessary functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The single-piece frame structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support through the lower structure and crossbeams, stores water in the integrated water tank, facilitates waste removal through the exhaust duct, and enables height adjustment via adjustable legs. This multi-functionality within a unified structure achieves versatility without requiring separate components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple materials are combined in the frame, then the frame can achieve functional requirements, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a homogeneous material approach by constructing the entire frame structure from a single material - molded plastic. This eliminates the need to combine metal elements, plastic parts, and rubber components used in conventional frames. The homogeneous material reduces manufacturing complexity and cost while the plastic material's versatility allows it to fulfill all functional requirements through appropriate structural design.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging all functional components into a single plastic-molded structure, the patent eliminates the need for multiple material types and their associated joining processes. The single-material construction simplifies manufacturing and reduces costs while maintaining functional versatility through integrated design.
3Ease of manufacture
If a one-piece structure is used, then the manufacturing cost is reduced, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
While the frame is manufactured as a one-piece structure, the design incorporates segmented functional zones within the single molded part. The water tank, actuation mechanisms, lower structure, crossbeams, and exhaust duct are all distinct functional segments integrated into one piece. This segmentation of function within a unified structure allows complex functionality to be achieved without requiring multiple separate components, thus reducing manufacturing cost while managing structural complexity through smart integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent resolves structural complexity by transitioning from a multi-component three-dimensional assembly to a single three-dimensional molded structure. The complexity is managed through the molding process itself, which can create intricate internal geometries and integrated features that would require multiple parts if manufactured traditionally. This dimensional approach allows all structural elements to coexist within a single piece.
4Adaptability or versatility
If assembly stages are required, then the frame can accommodate different components, but the installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-integrating all components into a single assembled frame structure during manufacturing. The water tank, actuation mechanisms, lower structure, and other components are already positioned and secured within the one-piece frame before installation. This preliminary assembly eliminates the need for on-site assembly stages, significantly reducing installation time while maintaining the ability to accommodate all necessary components.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging all components into a single pre-assembled unit, the patent eliminates multiple assembly stages during installation. The entire frame arrives as one piece requiring minimal installation steps, thereby reducing installation time while still providing adaptability through the integrated design of all functional components within the unified structure.
Data Source
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AI summary
Recessed frame for clamping of sanitary elements comprising a box of actuation mechanisms (2), an intermediate water tank (3) and a lower structure (4) for supporting and mounting the toilet, the three elements comprising a single one-piece part. The lower structure (4) integrates a central crossbeam (10') wherein two inclined crossbeams (10) and one exhaust duct (5) which leads into a central area of the central crossbeam (10') flanked by the terminal sections of the inclined crossbeams (10) converge. Jointly to the central crossbeam (10') and at its bottom there is a bridge (6) consisting of one single piece. Associated with the bridge (6) we find a flange (7) that is adaptable to any diameter of a drain pipe of the sanitary element. The one-piece part that configures the frame is manufactured in any mouldable material preferably plastic. The manufacture of the one-piece part is carried out by the technique of rotational moulding or else by the technique of injection of the material to be shaped.