Shower Wall Notch System for Reconfigurable Storage Accessories
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional shower and bathing enclosures lack adaptable and reconfigurable storage solutions, limiting the flexibility in storage location and type of storage members.
Innovation Solution
The integration of notched wall panels that allow for the removably coupling of accessories, such as receptacles and shelves, through a system of corner and side notches, enabling customizable storage configurations and easy installation/removal of accessories.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed storage areas are integrated into wall members, then storage functionality is provided, but adaptability and reconfigurability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The wall member is segmented by incorporating multiple discrete notches (corner notches and side notches) at different locations rather than providing continuous or fixed storage areas. This segmentation allows accessories to be installed at specific discrete points, enabling reconfiguration while maintaining a relatively simple overall wall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage system transitions from a static, fixed configuration to a dynamic, reconfigurable system. The notches provide predetermined locations that allow accessories to be moved between different positions (e.g., from corner to side, or between different height levels), making the storage arrangement adaptable to changing user needs without requiring structural modifications to the wall members themselves.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed storage areas are integrated into wall members, then storage functionality is provided, but flexibility in storage type and location is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The wall members are manufactured with multiple discrete notches at predetermined locations rather than complex integrated storage compartments. This segmentation approach simplifies manufacturing compared to creating fully customizable built-in storage, while still providing the flexibility needed for various storage configurations through the strategic placement of these notches.
Solution Approach 2:
The notches are designed as universal features that can accommodate different types of accessories (shelves, hooks, racks, etc.) at multiple locations. This multi-functional design allows the same wall member structure to serve various storage needs without requiring different wall members for different storage configurations, balancing manufacturing simplicity with configurational flexibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple notches are provided for accessory installation, then reconfigurability is improved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wall member complexity is managed by segmenting the notches into two distinct types (corner notches and side notches) with standardized dimensions within each type. This segmentation allows for systematic placement and simplifies the overall design compared to having entirely unique features at each potential accessory location, enabling reconfigurability while controlling structural complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage system for a shower enclosure includes a first wall member, a second wall member, and a storage accessory. The first wall member includes a corner defining a recessed portion. The first wall member further includes a corner notch disposed along the corner within the recessed portion, and a first side notch disposed along an inner side surface of the first wall member adjacent the recessed portion. The second wall member is coupled to the first wall member at an end of the corner adjacent the recessed portion and is oriented perpendicular to the first wall member. The second wall member includes a second side notch disposed along an inner side surface of the second wall member. The storage accessory is removably coupled between the first wall member and the second wall member at the corner notch, the first side notch, and the second side notch.