Sink Apron Module Integrating Audio and Smart Home Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sinks lack integration of electronic devices such as music systems and virtual assistants, leading to cluttered appearances in environments like kitchens and bathrooms.
Innovation Solution
A sink assembly with an apron module that includes an audio system and a control system, allowing for the integration of electronic components like speakers, microphones, and virtual assistants within the apron, providing centralized control of both sink and smart home devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If electronic devices such as music systems and virtual assistants are integrated within the sink, then functionality and user convenience are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple electronic devices (music system, virtual assistant, control system) into a single integrated unit housed within the sink structure. The housing contains all electronic components, speakers, microphones, and control systems in one consolidated assembly, eliminating the need for separate devices and reducing overall system complexity despite increased functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it controls sink operations (water flow, temperature), manages audio output through speakers, processes voice commands via microphones, and interfaces with smart home devices. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require separate devices into a single universal control unit.
2Shape
If electronic components are integrated within the apron module, then aesthetic appeal is improved by reducing clutter, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic components are nested within the apron module housing, which itself is integrated into the sink structure. The housing body defines an enclosed space that contains all electronic devices, speakers, and control systems, creating a nested arrangement that maintains a clean external appearance while accommodating complex internal components.
Solution Approach 2:
The sink is divided into distinct modular components: the basin, the apron module with housing, and the electronic systems. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately and then assembled, simplifying the manufacturing process despite the integrated final product.
3Volume of stationary object
If the apron module is sized to be fully received within the volume between the basin and apron, then space utilization is improved, but the available space for electronic components is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The apron module housing utilizes the three-dimensional space efficiently by extending in multiple directions: the housing body defines an enclosed space that accommodates electronic components vertically and horizontally within the available volume between the basin floor and apron front wall, maximizing space utilization in all dimensions.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a sink assembly including a basin, an apron, and an apron module. The basin includes a floor and a plurality of sidewalls extending upwardly from the floor. The floor and the plurality of sidewalls together define a reservoir configured to receive fluid therein. The apron module is disposed within the volume and includes an audio system. The apron module may be sized to be fully received within the volume.