Support frame for use with kitchen sink and over sink work station
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support frames for kitchen sinks suffer from hygiene issues due to moisture and dirt entering the space between the frame and extendable arms, limiting compatibility with different sink dimensions and orientations, and requiring secure positioning.
Innovation Solution
A support frame with extendable arms connected by handles featuring different cross sections and sealing elements, allowing parallel movement without moisture ingress, and adaptable to various sink configurations through oblique handle extensions and no-slip pads, ensuring secure placement and ergonomic use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If extendable arms are used to hold the frame over the sink, then adaptability to different sink dimensions is improved, but moisture and dirt enter the space between the frame and arms degrading hygiene
Solution Approach 1:
A sealing element in the form of a flexible membrane is integrated into the frame structure, extending from the front surface toward the rear surface. This flexible film creates a barrier that prevents moisture and dirt from entering the space between the frame and extendable arms, while maintaining the adaptability of the arms to different sink dimensions. The flexible nature of the membrane allows it to conform to the movement and positioning of the extendable arms.
2Ease of manufacture
If openings in the frame are used to receive inserts, then the work station can be assembled, but the openings are limited to matching inserts only severely limiting use
Solution Approach 1:
The frame structure is designed with a universal mounting system that can accommodate different types of inserts and accessories. The sealing element and extendable arms are configured to work with various insert dimensions and configurations, allowing the same frame to serve multiple functions and be compatible with different kitchen work station setups.
3Ease of operation
If the frame is placed on a flat surface when not in use, then it can be stored, but legs are required which complicate the structure
Solution Approach 1:
The extendable arms themselves are designed to function as support legs when the work station is not in use. By extending the arms to their maximum length and positioning them on the countertop surface, the frame can be stored without requiring separate leg components. This merging of the arm and leg functions simplifies the overall structure while maintaining storage capability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances hygiene, reliability, and versatility by preventing moisture and dirt ingress, allowing compatibility with diverse sink dimensions and orientations, and providing secure, ergonomic placement.
Implementation Method 1
said second parts, at an end portion thereof, comprise a sealing element, preferably a ring-shaped elastomeric or plastics seal, for slidably centering and aligning said first parts and said second parts
Implementation Method 2
said first parts comprise a resilient pin or protrusion which engages the hole or recess when said first part and said second part are in a predefined relative position
Data Source
AI summary
A support frame (1) for use with a kitchen sink (10), the support frame (1) having at least two extendable arms (2.1, 2.2) to hold the frame over a kitchen sink (10), which arms (2.1, 2.2) extend parallel to each other, defining a free space (3) therebetween, and are connected, at respective ends thereof, by connecting handles (4.1, 4.2). The arms (2.1, 2.2) each have at least two parts (2.1a, 2.1b; 2.2a, 2.2b) of different cross section, with a first part (2.1b, 2.2b) of smaller cross section slidably inserted into a second part (2.1a, 2.2a) of larger cross section, and the second parts (2.1a, 2.2a), at an end portion thereof, include a sealing element (2.1c, 2.2c), preferably a ring-shaped elastomeric or plastics seal, for slidably centering and aligning the first parts (2.1b, 2.2b) and said second parts (2.1a, 2.2a).