Tub and Shower Surround With Hidden Shelf Projection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tub and shower surrounds often expose bathing products, compromising aesthetics as consumers seek a more visually appealing bathroom design.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates an open shelf that is partially hidden from view by a projection, seamlessly integrating with the tub or shower surround's design, using decorative moldings and curved protrusions to conceal storage areas, enhancing the aesthetic appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If bathing products are stored on open shelves in conventional tub and shower surrounds, then products are easily accessible and visible, but the aesthetic appearance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
A decorative projection element is introduced as an intermediary component between the observer and the open shelf. This projection partially obscures the view of stored products while maintaining the open shelf structure, thus mediating between aesthetic requirements and product accessibility
Solution Approach 2:
The open shelf structure is modified by adding a projection at a specific location to create selective visibility. The projection creates zones of different visual quality - some areas remain fully visible while others are partially obscured, allowing simultaneous achievement of aesthetics and accessibility
2Shape
If storage shelves are completely enclosed in cabinets to hide bathing products, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but accessibility and simplicity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of completely enclosing the shelf in a cabinet, only a partial obstruction is implemented through the projection. This partial action provides sufficient aesthetic improvement while avoiding the excessive complexity of full enclosure
Solution Approach 2:
The shelving structure is segmented into visible and obscured portions by the projection. This segmentation allows the shelf to maintain its simple open structure while creating aesthetic value through selective hiding of stored items
Data Source
AI summary
A surround for use in a bath or a shower has a back and a side. The side has a protrusion extending therefrom. An open shelf attaches to either the back or the side. The protrusion at least partially restricts a view of the shelf.