Multi-Level Sink Basin Ledges for Ergonomic Task Support

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Solution Overview

Problem

Typical kitchen sinks have a single, stationary bottom surface height that is not optimally suited for various tasks, such as handling large objects, heavy-duty cleaning, precision tasks, or light-duty tasks, as it does not provide the necessary ergonomic support for efficient task performance.

Innovation Solution

A multi-function sink system with a sink basin that includes multiple ledges at different heights, allowing sink accessories to be removably and slidably positioned, enabling tasks to be performed at ergonomically appropriate heights and supporting multiple tasks simultaneously.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single stationary bottom surface height is used in the sink basin, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the sink cannot provide ergonomic support for various tasks at different heights

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different tasksVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The sink basin wall is segmented into multiple ledges at different heights, creating distinct support levels for various tasks. This segmentation allows the sink to accommodate different task requirements without requiring a completely complex adjustable structure, as each ledge serves a specific height zone for different activities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention adds vertical dimensionality to the sink basin by incorporating ledges at multiple height levels rather than relying solely on a single flat bottom surface. This dimensional change enables users to perform tasks at ergonomically appropriate heights while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.

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

2Productivity

If a single bottom surface height is used, then the manufacturing cost is low and the structure is simple, but the sink cannot efficiently support multiple tasks simultaneously at different heights

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetask efficiencyVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The sink basin is divided into multiple functional zones through the inclusion of ledges at different heights. Each ledge creates a distinct workspace level, allowing multiple tasks to be performed simultaneously at appropriate heights, thereby improving overall task efficiency without requiring complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The multi-level ledge structure provides universal support for various tasks including heavy-duty cleaning, precision work, and light-duty activities. By incorporating multiple height levels, the sink becomes a multi-functional workspace that can accommodate diverse tasks simultaneously, enhancing productivity while maintaining structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If the sink basin has a fixed bottom surface, then the structure is stable and easy to manufacture, but it does not provide ergonomic support for precision tasks requiring higher working surfaces

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveergonomic supportVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The sink basin wall is segmented into multiple ledges at different heights, creating distinct support levels for various tasks. This segmentation allows the sink to accommodate different task requirements without requiring a completely complex adjustable structure, as each ledge serves a specific height zone for different activities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention adds vertical dimensionality to the sink basin by incorporating ledges at multiple height levels rather than relying solely on a single flat bottom surface. This dimensional change enables users to perform tasks at ergonomically appropriate heights while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.

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

Data Source

PatentUS9574333B2Sink system
Publication Date: 2017.02.21 KOHLER CO(US)
  • US9574333B2 patent drawing
  • US9574333B2 patent drawing
  • US9574333B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A sink system includes a sink basin. The sink basin includes a bottom surface having a drain; one or more walls extending upward from the bottom surface; one or more ledges formed on at least one wall; and one or more sink accessories configured to be removably and slidably positioned on at least one of the one or more ledges, each of the one or more sink accessories being sized and shaped to fit within the sink basin. The one or more sink accessories are configured to assist with one or more tasks.