Intermittent Locking Hatch Mechanism for Spa Tub Beverage Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spa tub systems lack an integrated and aesthetically pleasing solution for storing hot/cold beverages, as external insulated containers are cumbersome and affect the appearance of the spa tub.
Innovation Solution
A spa tub system with a compartment built into the frame, featuring a hinge assembly with a locking mechanism that allows the hatch to be securely attached and removable, ensuring the hatch remains in place when open to a predefined angle, preventing accidental removal and maintaining the tub's appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an external insulated container is used to store beverages, then beverage storage functionality is provided, but the container is cumbersome to use and affects the appearance of the spa tub
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the beverage storage container with the spa tub structure itself, creating an integrated compartment that is built into the frame. This eliminates the need for separate external containers and their associated aesthetic and usability problems.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated compartment serves multiple functions: it provides beverage storage, maintains thermal insulation, and preserves the aesthetic appearance of the spa tub. The hatch mechanism provides both secure closure and easy access functionality.
2Reliability
If the hatch is securely attached to prevent removal, then the compartment remains secure, but the hatch cannot be removed when needed for access
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly transitions from a static permanent attachment to a dynamic system that can adapt its state. The latch mechanism allows the hatch to be securely held in the closed position during normal operation, but can be easily released and removed when access is needed, providing both security and flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge assembly changes the state parameter of the hatch attachment from permanently fixed to conditionally secure. The latch mechanism engages to provide security when closed, but can be disengaged to allow removal, changing the attachment parameter based on operational needs.
3Ease of operation
If the hatch is allowed to be removed freely, then access to the compartment is easy, but the hatch may be accidentally removed or lost
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly with latch mechanism performs preliminary action by automatically engaging the latch when the hatch is closed, securing it before any accidental forces can cause removal. The user must deliberately act to release the latch, preventing accidental loss while maintaining easy access when intended.
4Shape
If the compartment is built into the frame, then the appearance is maintained, but the hatch needs a complex hinge mechanism for secure attachment
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly is nested within the compartment structure, with the carrier structure integrated into the compartment frame and the hinge mechanism contained within the compartment boundaries. This nesting allows the complex mechanism to be hidden from view when the hatch is closed, maintaining aesthetic appearance while providing secure attachment functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A spa tub system comprising a spa tub and at least one compartment integrated into the frame of the spa tub. The compartment includes a hatch which is attached to the compartment using a hinge assembly. The hinge assembly includes a bearing trough, a bearing cam, and a cam stop. The hatch is pivoted to open and close and can open to a predefined angle. At this predefined angle, the hatch cannot be removed. When the hatch is pivoted to a pivot angle less than the predefined angle, the hatch can be removed.