Sink accessory part for arrangement on a sink

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sink accessory parts face instability and restricted functionality due to the need for multiple horizontal support areas at the same height on sinks, which complicates their arrangement and limits their positioning options.

Innovation Solution

A sink accessory part that couples to two opposing side walls of the sink using first and second coupling devices, allowing for stable positioning without requiring horizontal support areas, with the working height determined by the spacing between these devices and the inclination of the side walls.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a sink accessory part is laid on horizontal support areas (tap ledge and bowl edge region), then the accessory part can be positioned on the sink, but it requires the front and rear support areas to be at the same height level, which restricts positioning flexibility

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning flexibilityVSAvoidpositioning options
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The invention transitions from requiring horizontal support areas at the same height level to utilizing the vertical dimension by coupling to inclined side walls. The coupling devices engage with the sloping surfaces of the side walls, allowing the accessory part to be positioned at various heights determined by the spacing between coupling devices rather than being constrained to a single horizontal plane.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a sink accessory part is placed on the base region of the bowl, then the accessory part can be arranged on the sink, but the stability is low and functionality is restricted

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidarrangement stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling devices are pre-configured with coupling elements that engage with the side walls before the accessory part is fully installed. This preliminary engagement provides immediate stability and prevents the accessory part from sliding or becoming dislodged, while the adjustable spacing between coupling devices allows optimization of functionality for different applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If steps with support areas are constructed on the side walls, then the accessory part can be positioned at specific heights, but the side walls require a complex shape

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveheight positioningVSAvoidside wall shape
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of modifying the geometric shape of the side walls by adding steps, the invention changes the positioning parameter by adjusting the spacing between coupling devices. The coupling devices can be positioned at different distances from each other along the inclined side walls, enabling height adjustment without any structural modifications to the sink itself.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Adaptability or versatility

If a sink accessory part is laid on a sink edge that runs around the bowl, then the accessory part can be positioned on the sink, but it requires the sink edge to be at the same height everywhere

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning flexibilityVSAvoidsink edge uniformity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention divides the support function into multiple independent coupling devices that can be positioned separately on the side walls. Each coupling device operates independently, allowing them to be placed at different heights and positions to accommodate various accessory part configurations, eliminating the need for a uniform sink edge.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

This solution enables secure, stable, and adjustable positioning of sink accessory parts on sinks without the need for complex support structures, enhancing their functionality and usability.

Implementation Method 1

the first coupling device and/or the second coupling device to be couplable by positive locking and/or by force locking, in particular by frictional engagement, to the respectively associated side wall of the bowl

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS10588483B2Sink accessory part for arrangement on a sink
Publication Date: 2020.03.17 BLANCO GMBH & CO KG
  • US10588483B2 patent drawing
  • US10588483B2 patent drawing
  • US10588483B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In order to provide a sink accessory part for arrangement on a sink, which can be positioned on the sink simply and stably without the need for a plurality of horizontal support areas at the same height on the sink, and without restricting the functionality of the sink accessory part or the sink, it is proposed that the sink accessory part should include a first coupling device, for coupling the sink accessory part to a first side wall of a bowl of the sink, and a second coupling device, for coupling the sink accessory part to a second side wall, opposing the first side wall, of the bowl of the sink.