Shower Enclosure Compression Seal for Caulkless Joint Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prefabricated shower panel systems experience water leakage due to ineffective sealing at joints, which is dependent on installer skill and quality of sealing materials.
Innovation Solution
A compliant member is integrated into the shower enclosure system, forming a seal with the base and side panels to prevent water leakage by extending outward and being compressed by flanges, redirecting water back into the basin.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If caulk or liquid sealant is applied to seal joints, then water leakage is prevented, but the sealing effectiveness becomes dependent on installer skill and material quality
Solution Approach 1:
The compression member is designed to automatically compress and expand, creating a seal without requiring manual application of caulk or sealant. The member compresses during installation between the base and panel, then expands to seal the joint, making the sealing process self-executing rather than dependent on installer skill
Solution Approach 2:
The compression member utilizes elastic deformation as a key parameter change mechanism. The material is compressed during installation and then expands to create the seal, using controlled parameter change (compression/expansion) to achieve reliable sealing independent of installer technique
2Ease of operation
If a compression member is used to seal joints, then installation consistency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compression member is implemented as a flexible, elastomeric component that can be compressed and expanded. This flexible element provides the sealing function through its ability to deform elastically, creating a simple yet effective sealing mechanism that integrates into the existing joint structure
Solution Approach 2:
The compression member is made from elastomeric material that combines flexibility with structural integrity. This composite approach allows the single component to perform multiple functions: sealing the joint, accommodating dimensional variations, and maintaining the seal under varying conditions
3Reliability
If the compliant member extends outward to seal the joint, then water leakage is prevented, but the member requires compression force from flanges
Solution Approach 1:
The flange structure provides a counteracting force that compresses the compression member. The rigid flange on the panel and the base work together to apply and maintain the necessary compression force on the elastomeric member, ensuring the seal remains effective under water pressure
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The compliant member effectively seals the horizontal joint between the base and side panels, preventing water from leaking over the side of the base and redirecting it inward, enhancing the longevity and consistency of the seal without relying on caulk or other liquid sealants.
Implementation Method 1
the compliant member being compressed inward by the third flange relative to the interior of the enclosure
Implementation Method 2
The compliant member has a length and a width... the compliant member extending outward of the second flange... and the compliant member being compressed inward
Data Source
AI summary
A bathing enclosure includes a base, one or more wall panels, and a compliant member. The base includes a first flange extending outward from an upper end thereof to define an upper surface. The wall panels include a second flange extending outward from a lower end thereof to define a lower surface. The compliant member has a length and a width, the length being greater than the width. The base and the one or more wall panels at least in part define a forward entrance into an interior of the enclosure. A generally horizontal interface is formed between the first flange and the second flange. The compliant member is coupled to a first of the one or more wall panels proximate the entrance. The compliant member forms a seal with the first flange, the length of the compliant member extending outward relative to the interior of the enclosure.