Shower Base Hexagonal Rib Support Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fabricated shower bases and bathtubs with thin, lightweight walls lack sufficient strength and durability, necessitating improved structural support.
Innovation Solution
A shower or tub assembly featuring a support structure with a plurality of ribs forming a repeating hexagonal or triangular pattern, which are substantially perpendicular to the floor, providing enhanced structural integrity and concealment of the lower surface when in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If thin, lightweight walls are used in fabricated shower bases and bathtubs, then the weight is reduced and ease of installation is improved, but the strength and durability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into multiple ribs arranged in hexagonal or triangular patterns, creating a lattice framework that distributes structural loads across multiple discrete elements rather than relying on thick continuous walls
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines lightweight wall materials with a separate support structure comprising ribs, creating a composite system where the lightweight material provides corrosion resistance and the rib structure provides mechanical strength
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional square rib patterns are used, then the manufacturing is simpler, but the strength and durability under load are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs hexagonal and triangular geometric patterns in the rib arrangement, which distribute stress more effectively than square patterns. These geometric shapes create more efficient load paths that redirect forces through the structure, enhancing strength under load while maintaining manufacturability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes parameters such as rib spacing, rib thickness, and rib height to achieve maximum structural efficiency. The specific geometric patterns (hexagonal/triangular) represent parameter changes from traditional square patterns that improve load distribution and structural integrity
Data Source
AI summary
A shower or tub assembly comprising a shower base or bathtub having a floor comprising an upper surface and a lower surface; and a support structure coupled to the floor lower surface, wherein when the shower or tub is in use, the floor upper surface is exposed and configured for a person to sit or stand on, and the lower surface is at least partially concealed, the support structure comprises a plurality of ribs, the ribs being substantially perpendicular to the floor, and the plurality of ribs at least partially form a repeating hexagonal pattern or at least partially form a repeating triangular pattern.