Sink having removable apron and accessory systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sinks often require auxiliary devices that detract from their aesthetic appearance and create clutter, and these devices can accumulate grime and dirt over time.

Innovation Solution

A sink system with integrated features such as an apron attachment channel, basin channel, and basin rail that allow accessories to be inserted, repositioned, and removed without uncoupling the apron, along with a drain cover system that rotates to facilitate water flow and a rim deck for draining items.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If auxiliary devices are added to sinks to enhance functionality, then the functionality is improved, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates and clutter increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidaesthetic appearance

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates accessory mounting functions directly into the sink structure by incorporating channels within the apron and basin walls. This merging of the sink body and accessory mounting system eliminates the need for separate auxiliary devices, thereby maintaining aesthetic appearance while providing enhanced functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The apron and basin are designed with integrated channels that can accommodate multiple types of accessories (soap dispensers, toothbrush holders, etc.). This multi-functional design allows a single structure to serve both aesthetic and multiple functional purposes, resolving the contradiction between appearance and functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If auxiliary devices are added to sinks, then functionality is enhanced, but grime and dirt accumulation increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidgrime and dirt accumulation

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

By integrating accessory mounting channels directly into the sink's apron and basin structure, the patent eliminates separate auxiliary devices that would otherwise accumulate grime. The integrated design ensures that all surfaces are part of the sink's main structure, which can be cleaned uniformly, thereby reducing grime accumulation while maintaining functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If external accessories are used with sinks, then functionality is enhanced, but counter space is consumed

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidcounter space

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes the vertical dimension by incorporating channels within the apron and basin walls, allowing accessories to be mounted vertically on the sink structure rather than horizontally on the counter. This dimensional shift provides enhanced functionality without consuming additional counter space.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS12559922B2Sink having removable apron and accessory systems

Publication Date: 2026.02.24 KOHLER CO(US)

AI summary

A sink system includes a basin and an apron. The basin includes a floor, a front wall, and a basin rim. The front wall is contiguous with the floor. The basin rim has a rim front side that is contiguous with the front wall. The rim front side includes an aperture. The apron includes an apron coupling wall. The apron coupling wall is configured to be coupled to the rim front side. The apron coupling wall includes an apron slot that is configured to be aligned with the aperture when the apron is coupled to the basin rim.