Spa accessory mounting assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern spas with thin polymer side wall panels, backed by a rigid internal frame, struggle to support the weight of spa accessories like cover lifters, as the internal framing is not typically located at positions required for mounting, making it difficult to attach accessories without additional internal reinforcement.
Innovation Solution
A spa accessory mounting assembly that includes an upper frame anchor, a lower frame anchor, and a bridging sleeve, allowing the accessory mount to be positioned at any required elevation without removing side wall panels or adding internal framing, using a horizontal foot for additional stability and a movable upright support for adjustable mounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional mounting methods are used with internal framing, then accessories can be securely mounted, but the spa structure becomes more complex and requires additional reinforcement
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate components: an external mounting plate that attaches to the side wall, and a separate accessory that attaches to the mounting plate. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex internal framing while maintaining secure mounting capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting plate extends outward from the side wall in a third dimension, creating a new mounting surface that does not interfere with the internal framing structure. This dimensional change allows secure accessory mounting without modifying the internal frame.
2Strength
If internal framing is added for accessory mounting, then accessories can be supported, but installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting plate is pre-assembled with attachment means for both the side wall and the accessory. This preliminary preparation allows for quick installation by simply fastening the complete assembly to the side wall, eliminating the need for time-consuming internal framing work.
3Adaptability or versatility
If side wall panels are removed to add internal framing, then accessories can be mounted, but the spa structure is compromised and reassembly is required
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of removing side wall panels to add internal framing from the inside, the mounting system is inverted by attaching the mounting plate to the exterior surface of the side wall. This approach maintains structural integrity while achieving the same mounting flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A spa accessory mounting assembly includes a lower anchor, and upright support, and an accessory mount. The lower anchor having a horizontal foot positionable under a spa. The upright support having a lower portion connected to the lower anchor, and an upper end positioned above the lower anchor. The accessory mount is connected to the upright support. At least one of: (i) the upright support is movable relative to the lower anchor between at least two upright support elevations, and the upright support is rigidly connectable to the lower anchor at each of the upright support elevations; and (ii) the accessory mount is movable relative to the upright support between at least two accessory mount elevations, and the accessory mount is rigidly connectable to the upright support at each of the accessory mount elevations.