Adjustable Sink Overflow Blocker for Back-Flush-Free Plunging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sink drainage systems face issues with slow draining, contamination, and unsanitary overflow areas, leading to unpleasant odors and difficult cleaning, with current overflow devices being inaccessible for cleaning and not effectively preventing back-flush during plunging.
Innovation Solution
A sink plunging device comprising a CPVC pipe mainframe with tee pipes, an adjustable connector, and rubber caps that block overflow holes, allowing a plunger to be inserted to prevent back-flush and accommodate various sink sizes, using a telescopic connector and butterfly clamps for secure fit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a plunger is inserted directly into the sink drain, then plunging action can be applied to clear clogs, but water can back-flush into the sink basin during plunging
Solution Approach 1:
A pipe mainframe assembly acts as an intermediary device between the plunger and the sink drain. The assembly includes a first rubber cap that seals the overflow hole and a second rubber cap that seals the drain opening, creating a controlled intermediary system that prevents water from back-flushing into the sink basin while allowing plunging pressure to clear clogs effectively
2Ease of operation
If overflow holes are left open for drainage function, then water can drain properly, but the areas behind overflow openings become contaminated and unsanitary
Solution Approach 1:
The first rubber cap is preliminarily positioned to seal the overflow hole before plunging begins. This preliminary sealing action prevents water and contaminants from entering the overflow cavity during the plunging process, eliminating the sanitation problem while maintaining drainage functionality when the cap is removed
3Device complexity
If fixed-size plunging devices are used, then simple design is maintained, but they cannot accommodate various sink sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe mainframe assembly incorporates adjustable connector pipes with butterfly clamps that allow the structure to be dynamically resized. The connector pipes can be extended or retracted, and the butterfly clamps provide adjustable securing positions, enabling the same device to adapt to sinks of various sizes while maintaining a relatively simple overall design
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for effectively plunging a drain by blocking the redirection of water is provided. The apparatus includes a pipe mainframe defining an enclosed area. The pipe mainframe includes a plurality of piping having a front portion and a rear portion. Tee pipes are outwardly disposed on the front portion and the rear portion of the pipe mainframe. The rear portion includes an adjustable connector attached to the outward end of the tee pipe. The adjustable connector can modify the length of the pipe mainframe to accommodate sinks or basins of various lengths. The apparatus further includes a rubber pipe cap at a distal end of the front portion of the pipe mainframe to effectively block the flow of water and provide support for the device.