Shower Fitting With Single Lifting Device For Compact Door Swing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shower partition fittings are bulky due to the need for two lifting devices, which complicates the design and functionality, especially when trying to achieve a compact and aesthetically pleasing structure.
Innovation Solution
A fitting with two hinged or connectable halves that use a coupling part with parallel pivot axes to allow for inward and outward swinging of the partition or door, featuring a locking device that locks the first joint when the door is opened outward, and a lifting device that only operates when the door is opened outward, enabling a compact and flush installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two lifting devices are used to enable inward and outward swinging of the door, then the door can be opened in both directions, but the fitting becomes bulky and complex in the transverse direction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of two separate lifting devices into a single integrated lifting device that can operate in both inward and outward swinging modes. This unified lifting mechanism eliminates the need for duplicate components while maintaining the capability to lift the door in either direction, thereby reducing the transverse size and overall complexity of the fitting structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The single lifting device is designed with multi-functionality to perform lifting operations for both inward and outward door opening scenarios. By incorporating universal design features, the lifting device adapts to different swinging directions without requiring separate dedicated lifting mechanisms, thus achieving versatility while minimizing structural bulk.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two lifting devices are installed to support inward and outward swinging, then the door functionality is improved, but the transverse size of the fitting increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functional requirements of two lifting devices into a single compact lifting mechanism that can accommodate both inward and outward swinging motions. This consolidation eliminates redundant components and reduces the transverse dimension of the fitting while preserving the door's ability to swing in multiple directions.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting device is designed to operate efficiently in the vertical dimension rather than requiring extensive transverse space. By optimizing the lifting mechanism's operation in the vertical plane, the design achieves the necessary lifting capability for bidirectional swinging without increasing the transverse footprint of the fitting.
3Reliability
If a locking device is added to lock the first joint when the door opens outward, then the door stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on the door's position and movement. When the door opens outward, the locking mechanism self-activates to secure the joint, and when the door returns to its closed position, it self-disengages. This self-service functionality provides reliable door stability without requiring additional actuators or complex control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device incorporates dynamic elements that allow it to adapt its state based on real-time door position. The locking mechanism is designed to be active during outward opening when stability is needed, and inactive during closed or inward-opening positions. This dynamic behavior ensures reliability while minimizing the operational complexity of the locking system.
Data Source
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AI summary
A fitting (10) for a shower enclosure (1) is proposed, comprising two fitting halves (11, 12) connected via a coupling element (13) for the pivoting mounting of a door (2) about two hinges with parallel pivot axes (14, 15), wherein one hinge is lockable and the inner pivot axis (14) lies in the plane of the glass pane. Furthermore, only one lifting device (25) is provided for superimposing an axial lifting movement when the door (2) pivots. The fitting (10) is flush-mounted with a glass pane (3).