Shower Door Hinge Assembly with Integrated Stop and Adjustable Bracket
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pivoting shower door assemblies lack adjustable features to correct for out-of-plumb conditions and lateral positioning, relying on external stop mechanisms for rotational positioning, which limits flexibility and structural stability.
Innovation Solution
The shower door assembly incorporates independently adjustable bracket assemblies with internal features that allow for level correction and horizontal adjustment of the door, eliminating the need for external stop mechanisms by using a guide member with circumferential slots, cam mechanisms, and pivotable clamp assemblies to set rotational positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fixed mounting points are used on bracket assemblies, then the structure is simple, but the door cannot be adjusted for level or out-of-plumb conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket assembly incorporates adjustable mounting points that allow dynamic repositioning of the door panel. The brackets can be moved along the door panel and repositioned at different locations, enabling adjustment for level or out-of-plumb conditions while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket assembly serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables adjustment for level positioning, allows repositioning of the door panel, and facilitates proper alignment. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by integrating adjustment capabilities into the support structure itself
2Adaptability or versatility
If external stop mechanisms or latches are used to set rotational position, then the rotational endpoint is defined, but additional hardware is required
Solution Approach 1:
The stop mechanism is merged with the bracket assembly itself. The bracket includes an integrated stop feature that defines the rotational endpoint of the door panel, eliminating the need for separate external latches or stop mechanisms. This consolidation reduces hardware quantity while maintaining functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket assembly is self-sufficient by incorporating the stop mechanism as an inherent feature. The bracket's own structure provides the rotational limitation, allowing the system to define its operational boundaries without external assistance from additional hardware components
Data Source
AI summary
A shower door hinge assembly includes a clamp, a member, a base, a spacer, and a pin. The clamp is configured to receive a portion of a shower door. The member is coupled to the clamp, and comprises a circumferential slot. The base is configured to be coupled to a fixed structure, and defines a hole. The spacer is coupled to the base. The member is rotatably coupled to the spacer. The pin includes a first end and a second end. The first end is configured to be received in the hole of the base, and the second end is configured to be received in the circumferential slot. The pin and the circumferential slot are cooperatively configured to define an end point of rotation for the shower door.